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Caramel Apple Pecan Monkey Bread

Caramel Apple Pecan Monkey Bread

Caramel Apple Pecan Monkey Bread is a cozy, irresistible fall treat featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced dough balls rolled in brown sugar, juicy apple chunks, and crunchy pecans, all drenched in a luscious caramel glaze. This warm, gooey pull-apart bread combines sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors that perfectly capture the essence of autumn, making it an ideal dish to share during family breakfasts and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough and Coating

  • Bread dough or biscuit dough – about 16 ounces
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Fruit and Nuts

  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
  • 1 cup pecans, halved or chopped (toasted if desired)

Caramel Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • Optional: pinch of salt for salted caramel flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Dough and Apples: Cut bread dough or biscuit dough into bite-sized chunks. Toss gently in a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar to coat each piece. Peel and dice fresh apples into small cubes, ready to distribute evenly.
  2. Layer the Monkey Bread: Grease a bundt pan or baking dish well. Begin layering by adding coated dough pieces, apple chunks, and pecans, repeating these layers until all ingredients are used to ensure balanced flavors throughout.
  3. Prepare and Pour Caramel Sauce: Melt butter and brown sugar together over medium heat until smooth and bubbly, forming the caramel sauce. Pour it evenly over the layered dough, apples, and pecans.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and caramel sauce is bubbling around the edges.
  5. Cool Slightly and Serve Warm: Allow the monkey bread to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramel is on top. Serve warm for the best gooey texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Cut dough pieces uniformly to ensure even baking and consistent texture.
  • Toss apple chunks with lemon juice before layering to prevent browning.
  • Use a well-greased bundt pan to achieve the iconic shape and prevent sticking.
  • Allow resting time after baking to let the caramel thicken and set slightly for perfect pull-apart slices.
  • Toast pecans briefly to enhance their nutty flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caramel, Apple, Pecan, Monkey Bread, Fall, Autumn, Pull-apart Bread, Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Homemade Dessert