Name: Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread: A Cozy Fall Delight to Share
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 packages Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits (Non-flaky types recommended.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (For coating); 2 tablespoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.); 1/2 cup Salted Butter (Can use unsalted butter.); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (Raw or coconut sugar are good alternatives.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.); 1 cup Pure Pumpkin Puree (Make sure it's pure and not pie filling.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Good quality extract recommended.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Brings creaminess to the caramel.)

As the leaves start to turn and the air fills with the warm, cozy scents of autumn, I find myself craving the soul-soothing flavors of the season. That’s when my gooey Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread comes into play, transforming any ordinary breakfast or dessert into a festive celebration. This delightful treat is not only a pull-apart wonder, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring the moment. With just a handful of ingredients and a little over an hour of your time, you’ll create a scrumptious centerpiece that everyone will love. Ready to bring the taste of fall into your home? Let’s dive in!

Why is Monkey Bread So Irresistible?

Gooey Delights: This Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread is the ultimate comfort food, merging soft, fluffy biscuits with a rich caramel sauce.

Festive Flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, making it feel like fall year-round.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a spectacular dish in just over an hour.

Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, this pull-apart bread is not only fun to eat but also creates a joyful, communal experience.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast or a sweet dessert, perhaps drizzled with extra caramel or paired with a warm cup of coffee, just like my Maple Pumpkin Coffee.

Get ready for compliments when you serve this seasonal delight at your next gathering!

Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Ingredients

For the Monkey Bread

• Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits – Provides the base structure and ensure you use non-flaky types for the best pull-apart effect.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and enhances caramelization; a crucial ingredient for that rich flavor.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, aromatic flavors that scream fall; you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and aids in caramel creation; if you prefer, unsalted butter works well too.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes to a deep, rich caramel flavor; raw or coconut sugar can be good alternatives.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, creamy sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter substitute if needed.
• Pure Pumpkin Puree – You need moisture and that beloved pumpkin flavor; make sure it’s pure and not a pie filling.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; opt for a good quality extract, or switch it up with almond extract for a twist.

For the Caramel Sauce

• Heavy Cream – This key element brings creaminess to the caramel sauce and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Now that you have everything laid out, you’re just a step away from creating this warm, sticky sensation that everyone will love. Enjoy the process!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for the Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread. While the oven warms up, grab a cutting board and a sharp knife to cut each refrigerated buttermilk biscuit into four pieces, creating bite-sized morsels that will soak up all that delicious sauce.

Step 2: Coat the Biscuit Pieces
In a large zip-top bag, combine granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Once mixed, add in the biscuit pieces, sealing the bag tightly. Shake vigorously until each piece is evenly coated in the sweet, aromatic mixture. This step adds a delightful flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin bread.

Step 3: Layer the Biscuit Pieces
Take a Bundt pan and begin layering the coated biscuit pieces in a random yet evenly distributed manner. As you place them in, feel free to sprinkle in any optional toasted nuts for additional texture. This uneven layering allows for an inviting pull-apart effect once baked, making your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread all the more enticing.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add in the light brown sugar, stirring continuously until the sugar is mostly dissolved, around 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture starts to bubble gently and looks smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Add Cream and Pumpkin
Reduce the heat slightly and whisk in the heavy cream and pure pumpkin puree until fully combined. Allow this luscious mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up, creating that rich caramel sauce perfect for drizzling over your biscuit layers. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Pour Sauce Over Biscuits
Carefully pour the warm pumpkin caramel sauce over the layered biscuit pieces in the Bundt pan. Make sure to drizzle it evenly, helping to coat all the biscuits. This step is crucial for achieving that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines our Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the Bundt pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the Monkey Bread puffs up and turns a beautiful golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, ensuring every bite is soft and delectable.

Step 8: Cool and Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows the caramel sauce to set slightly. After cooling, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a serving platter. Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread warm, perhaps drizzled with additional caramel or paired with your favorite coffee for a cozy fall treat.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and gooeyness.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave to restore that delightful pull-apart texture.

Freezer: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to get that fresh-from-the-oven warmth back into your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread bites are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time in the kitchen on busy mornings or festive occasions! You can prepare all the biscuit pieces and coat them in the sugar and spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply place them in the Bundt pan and cover tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The caramel sauce can also be made ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled sauce over the biscuits, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious, gooey treat that everyone will adore with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Check for Doneness: Use a skewer to test if your bread is baked through. It should come out with moist crumbs but no raw dough attached.
Avoid Doughy Bites: Stick to non-flaky refrigerated biscuits to ensure a perfect pull-apart texture, elevating your pumpkin spice monkey bread experience.
Fix Sticking Issues: If your monkey bread sticks to the pan, place it back in a warm oven for a few minutes to re-melt the caramel, making it easier to release.
Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider layering in ½ cup of toasted chopped nuts at the bottom of the Bundt pan before adding biscuit pieces, creating a delightful contrast.
Stay Close to Timing: Keep an eye on the baking time; all ovens vary. A few minutes too long can turn that gooey treasure into a dry disappointment!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Elevate your cozy fall gatherings with delightful accompaniments that complement the sweetness and warmth of this delectable treat.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness creates a pleasant contrast with the sweet caramel tones of the monkey bread.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider echoes the fall flavors, providing a refreshing balance to the dessert.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream for a luscious topping that enhances every gooey bite.
Savory Sausage Links: The savory, hearty flavor of sausage links introduces a satisfying contrast, perfect for a fall brunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy, caramelized edges bring a touch of earthiness, balancing the sweetness of the Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread.
Chai Tea: This aromatic beverage pairs wonderfully, with spices perfectly mirroring those in the monkey bread, creating a cozy experience.
Pecan Pie: Serve alongside a slice of pecan pie for a delightful balance of textures and an extra element of sweetness.

Enjoy the warmth and joy this meal brings, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of any gathering!

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread

Feel free to explore these delightful tweaks to make your Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread even more personalized and scrumptious!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit mix to cater to those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream and butter for coconut cream and vegan butter; this keeps the caramel creamy and delicious for anyone on a dairy-free diet.
Nuts Galore: Add pecans or walnuts to the Bundt pan for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey bread. The nutty flavor enhances the overall richness!
Pumpkin Pie Spice Alternative: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger works well. It’s your opportunity to get creative with warm spices!
Sweeten the Deal: Experiment with adding a splash of maple syrup to your caramel sauce for extra sweetness and depth of flavor—perfect if you’re a maple lover. And who wouldn’t want a taste of that in their bite?
Flavor Boost: Try switching vanilla extract with almond extract for a delicious twist; it adds a unique depth to the caramel, brightening the entire dish.
Fruit Addition: Fold in small chunks of apple or pear into the biscuit layers for an unexpected surprise of fruity sweetness that layers in beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.

Make this recipe uniquely yours and keep the delightful taste of autumn alive at your table! Looking for more tasty fall-inspired dishes? Check out my Pumpkin Streusel Bread or indulge in some flavorful Pumpkin Sugar Cookies. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of biscuits should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using non-flaky refrigerated buttermilk biscuits. They provide the perfect base for the pull-apart effect. Flaky biscuits may not hold together as well and can lead to a less cohesive bread.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Very! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that soft, gooey goodness!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving to restore its delightful texture.

What if my Monkey Bread sticks to the Bundt pan?
Don’t worry! If your bread does stick, place it back in a warm oven for a few minutes. This will help to re-melt the caramel and make it easier to release from the pan. You can also try running a butter knife around the edges to gently loosen it before inverting.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread contains gluten and dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with celiac disease or lactose intolerance. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free biscuit dough. If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, swap the butter and cream for coconut oil and almond milk; just ensure the pumpkin puree is also free from any added ingredients.