If you’re craving a dessert or breakfast treat that brings gooey, buttery, nutty goodness with every bite, then you’re going to love this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls drenched in sticky butterscotch glaze, generously studded with crunchy toasted pecans that add the perfect texture contrast. This pull-apart bread is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, ideal for sharing (or not!) with family and friends. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend snack, this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create magic. Each one plays a key role, from the sugary caramel warmth of brown sugar and pudding mix to the crunchy pecans and soft, fluffy rolls that soak it all up magnificently.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup, 113g): These add a rich, buttery crunch so important for texture and flavor contrast.
- Unbaked frozen dinner rolls (24 rolls): Using frozen rolls like Rhodes brand ensures soft, fluffy bread that’s easy to layer in the pan.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, 213g): Light or dark both work, giving a deep caramel sweetness that’s essential for sticky goodness.
- Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch pudding mix (3.5 oz box): This is the secret ingredient for that luscious sticky glaze taste—make sure it’s not instant pudding.
- Melted unsalted butter (½ cup, 113g or 1 stick): Butter is the binding magic, providing richness and helping everything caramelize perfectly during baking.
How to Make Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Pecans
Start by giving your 10-inch Bundt pan a generous spray with nonstick cooking spray. This will make sure your sticky pecan monkey bread releases effortlessly after baking. Next, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on the bottom of the pan—this layer will create that beautiful crunchy base that contrasts wonderfully with the soft rolls.
Step 2: Layer the Frozen Rolls
Place the frozen dinner rolls right on top of the pecans. The beauty here is that there is no thawing needed; the rolls will slowly thaw and rise overnight, soaking up all the delicious flavors that you layer on next.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Powders
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the rolls. Then, sprinkle the dry Cook ‘n Serve butterscotch pudding mix on top of the brown sugar. These dry ingredients will meld with the butter to create that irresistibly sticky coating that glazes every bite once it bakes.
Step 4: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over all the layers. This rich butter melt is critical to produce the gooey, caramelized effect that makes this bread so addictively sticky and flavorful.
Step 5: Let it Rest Overnight
Cover your pan with a kitchen towel and let it rest overnight at room temperature. This slow soaking time is what allows the rolls to rise gently and soak up all the sweet, buttery juices, creating layers of moist, sticky delight.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pop the Bundt pan in and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden, bubbly, and irresistibly fragrant.
Step 7: Cool and Invert
Once baked, transfer the pan to a cooling rack and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then carefully place a plate larger than the Bundt pan over it and invert to release the sticky pecan monkey bread onto the plate. Be mindful that everything will be extra hot and deliciously sticky!
How to Serve Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe is rich and flavorful all on its own, a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a festive touch. For extra decadence, drizzle warmed caramel or a simple vanilla glaze over the top right before serving to amp up the sweet factor.
Side Dishes
This sticky bread shines best when partnered with simple sides such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or creamy vanilla yogurt. These lighter accompaniments help balance the richness without competing with the sticky pecan flavors, making it a perfect brunch centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
Monkey bread is naturally fun and shareable. Try serving it family-style on a wooden board, letting everyone pull off pieces directly. For parties, portion it into mini Bundt pans for individual servings, or place small pieces in pretty paper cups for grab-and-go treats that still have all the stickiness and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is often a challenge), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the bread soft, sticky, and fresh for quick breakfasts or snacks later.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It’s best eaten within one month of freezing. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to revive that fresh-baked warmth. For extra crisp edges, pop pieces in a toaster oven for a few minutes—but be careful not to overheat and dry it out!
FAQs
Can I use fresh rolls instead of frozen dinner rolls?
Frozen rolls are recommended because they thaw and rise slowly overnight, absorbing all the flavors. Fresh rolls can work, but you’ll want to adjust resting time accordingly.
What if I can’t find Cook ‘n Serve butterscotch pudding mix?
This pudding mix is key for the sticky glaze, but if unavailable, a homemade butterscotch sauce drizzle after baking can be a tasty alternative.
Can I prepare this recipe in the morning and bake immediately?
While you can, the overnight rest makes a huge difference in flavor and texture by allowing the rolls to rise and soak up the sticky topping.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pecans or swap them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch without nuts.
How do I make sure my monkey bread comes out sticky and not dry?
The key is the butter and pudding mix combination plus the overnight soak. Don’t skip the butter drizzle or resting time to ensure that luscious, sticky texture.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe is truly one of those feel-good dishes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for special mornings or anytime you want an addictive treat that pulls everyone together, it’s a recipe worth keeping close. Give it a try, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the sweet, sticky, nutty goodness that only monkey bread can deliver!
Print
Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Sticky Pecan Monkey Bread is a delightful, pull-apart breakfast or dessert treat made with frozen dinner rolls, crunchy pecans, buttery brown sugar, and a unique touch of butterscotch pudding mix. It’s super easy to prepare the night before and bake fresh in the morning, making it perfect for a special occasion or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup (113g) chopped pecans
- 24 unbaked frozen dinner rolls (Rhodes brand is recommended)
- 1 cup (213g) light or dark brown sugar
- 1 (3.5 ounces) box Cook ‘n Serve Butterscotch Pudding Mix (NOT instant)
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Bundt pan: Spray a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking after baking.
- Layer pecans and rolls: Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans into the bottom of the pan. Arrange the frozen dinner rolls over the pecans to cover the surface.
- Add sugar and pudding mix: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the frozen rolls, then evenly dust the dry butterscotch pudding mix on top of the brown sugar layer.
- Drizzle melted butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over all the layers in the pan, ensuring good coverage for the sticky topping.
- Let it rest overnight: Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature overnight to allow the rolls to rise and the flavors to meld.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the monkey bread for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Cool slightly: Remove the Bundt pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool for about 5 minutes to set the sticky glaze.
- Invert and serve: Place a serving plate larger than the bundt pan over the pan’s bottom, then carefully invert the pan to release the monkey bread onto the plate. Be cautious as the pan and caramelized topping will be hot. Serve immediately for best results.
Notes
- Use frozen dinner rolls directly from the freezer; no need to thaw before assembling.
- Be sure to use Cook ‘n Serve butterscotch pudding mix, not instant, for the right texture and flavor.
- Letting the bread sit overnight enhances the flavor and allows rolls to rise properly.
- Serve warm for the best gooey, sticky texture.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings using two Bundt pans.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
