Just when you thought carrot cake couldn't get any better, along comes this twist that's as fun to make as it is to eat. I first tried Carrot Cake Monkey Bread during a cozy brunch with friends, and it instantly became a favorite. Picture soft, cinnamon-sugar dough bites mixed with shredded carrots, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with creamy glaze. Trust me, you'll want to find out how to recreate this magic in your own kitchen.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Carrot Cake Monkey Bread recipe combines the best of two beloved treats into one unforgettable dessert. You'll adore the soft, pull-apart texture with every bite infused with warm spices and sweetness. Easy to make—no complicated steps or exotic ingredients required. Perfect for sharing—ideal for brunches, parties, or family gatherings. Customizable—add nuts, raisins, or extra frosting to make it your own. Additionally, this dessert pairs wonderfully with spiced coffee, enhancing the overall experience with its warm flavors.
Recipe
Carrot cake monkey bread is a delightful twist on the classic sweet treat, combining the flavors of carrot cake with the fun, pull-apart nature of monkey bread. This recipe is perfect for brunch, dessert, or a cozy weekend treat. Additionally, the recipe allows for various options such as incorporating customizable ingredients to tailor the dish to different tastes.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan.
- Punch down the dough and divide into small balls. In a bowl, mix carrots, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Roll each dough ball in the mixture, then layer them in the bundt pan. Sprinkle nuts between layers if using.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before inverting onto a plate.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm bread before serving.
Notes:
- Make certain the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
- For added richness, cream cheese glaze can be used instead of vanilla glaze.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including rising)
Serving:
Serves 8-10
Calories:
Approx. 300 kcal per serving
Cuisine:
American
Equipment
Preparing carrot cake monkey bread requires a few essential tools to guarantee the process is smooth and efficient. Gather these items before starting to create this delightful treat.
- 9-inch Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (for carrot prep)
- Rubber spatula
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
For an extra flavorful twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon to enhance the aroma and taste of your monkey bread.
Nutrition
Carrot Cake Monkey Bread is a delicious treat that combines the flavors of a classic carrot cake with the fun, pull-apart nature of monkey bread. This recipe offers a delightful mix of sweetness and spice, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 5g
This indulgent dessert can also be a guilt-free indulgence when made with wholesome ingredients like fresh carrots and nuts.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my carrot cake monkey bread with a warm cup of coffee, as the rich flavors complement each other perfectly. For a revitalizing twist, I often add a side of fresh fruit or a simple whipped cream dip. If I'm in the mood for something a bit creamy, a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a glass of iced tea rounds it all out. Additionally, serving it alongside a cinnamon roll casserole can create a delightful breakfast spread that enhances the overall experience.
Coffee Pairings
While this carrot cake monkey bread is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right coffee can take it to the next level. I love starting my day with a bold espresso blend—it really complements the warm spices in the bread. A smooth morning brew also works wonders, giving you that cozy, comforting vibe. Experiment and find what feels right for you—it's all about enjoying the moment.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is the perfect match for this carrot cake monkey bread, adding a tangy, creamy layer that balances the sweetness of the bread. I love playing with frosting variations, like adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon for flavor enhancements. It's so simple to whip up, and it lets you make the dish uniquely yours. Go wild—experimenting is half the fun!
Fresh Fruit Sides
Fresh fruit sides are an invigorating companion to this rich carrot cake monkey bread, offering a light, juicy contrast to its indulgent flavors. I love pairing it with crisp apple slices for a revitalizing crunch or tangy pineapple chunks to brighten the sweetness. These fruits balance the richness, letting your taste buds dance freely. It's a simple, rejuvenating way to enjoy the decadence without feeling weighed down.
Whipped Cream Dip
When you're diving into a warm, gooey slice of carrot cake monkey bread, a fluffy whipped cream dip is the perfect finishing touch. I love experimenting with flavor variations—try adding a dash of cinnamon or drizzle of caramel to jazz it up. For presentation tips, serve it in a pretty bowl with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. It's simple yet makes every bite feel special.
Iced Tea Options
A few sips of iced tea can be the perfect partner to a slice of carrot cake monkey bread, balancing its sweetness with a revitalizing, cool finish. I love pairing it with classic sweet tea or experimenting with herbal blends like mint or chamomile for a lighter touch. Choose what feels right—whether bold or mellow—it's all about finding what makes your taste buds happy. Cheers to freedom in every sip!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour for This Recipe?
I've wondered if I can use gluten-free flour, and yes, I can. Flour alternatives like almond or rice flour work for gluten-free baking. I love experimenting with recipes, giving me the freedom to enjoy without dietary restrictions.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan?
I'm confident I can adapt this recipe to be vegan by exploring *vegan substitutes* like plant-based butter and non-dairy milk. I'd also swap in *egg alternatives* such as flaxseed or applesauce to keep it cruelty-free and delicious.
How Long Can I Store the Monkey Bread?
I think the storage duration's key to keeping treats terrific. Store it airtight, then refrigerate if you plan to savor it later. Chilled, it'll keep for 3-4 days; just warm it to revive its magic.
Can I Freeze the Dough Before Baking?
I can definitely freeze the dough before baking. My freezing tips include wrapping it tightly in plastic to avoid freezer burn. For dough handling, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking freely.
What's the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Leftovers are like a second chance at joy, and I'll heat them fresh. For a quick fix, microwave tips: use medium power, cover to trap moisture. For crisp perfection, oven techniques at 350°F revive every bite.
