Pull-Apart Apple Cinnamon Delight

This apple fritter monkey bread transforms ordinary refrigerated biscuit dough into a spectacular fall dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The magic happens when layers of cinnamon sugar coated biscuits meld with warm spiced apples during baking, creating a pull-apart treat that's both impressive and comforting.

I first made this recipe when looking for a shortcut to traditional apple fritters without the fuss of deep frying. Now it's our goto weekend breakfast treat when the weather turns cool and the house needs that cozy cinnamon aroma.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated biscuit dough creates the perfect pull apart texture without any kneading or rising time
• Granny Smith or Fuji apples offer the ideal balance of tartness and structure that holds up during baking
• Brown sugar develops a rich caramel like sauce that coats every piece
• Ground cinnamon provides that classic fall spice profile essential for apple desserts
• Butter binds everything together creating richness and preventing sticking
• Vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to the caramel sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Generously grease your bundt pan making sure to get into all the crevices. This step is crucial for easy release later after all the caramel has formed.

Prepare Cinnamon Apples

Toss diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated. The small dice ensures tender pieces that integrate perfectly between the bread layers.

Create Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Combine granulated sugar with cinnamon in a bowl large enough for dipping. This coating creates the characteristic cinnamon sugar crust on each piece of bread.

Prep Biscuit Pieces

Cut each biscuit into quarters creating bite sized pieces perfect for pulling apart. The small size allows for maximum cinnamon sugar coverage and better distribution among the apples.

Coat Biscuit Pieces

Dip each piece in melted butter then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture ensuring complete coverage. Work quickly but thoroughly to maintain an even coating on all pieces.

Layer Components

Create alternating layers of coated biscuit pieces and cinnamon apples in the prepared pan. This layering technique ensures every pull apart section contains both bread and fruit.

Add Caramel Sauce

Pour the brown sugar butter vanilla mixture evenly over the assembled layers. This creates the sticky delicious caramel that will bind everything together.

Bake to Perfection

Bake until golden and completely cooked through. The extended baking time allows the biscuits to fully cook while the apples soften and release their juices.

Bookmark

My favorite part of this recipe is watching everyone gather around the still warm bread each person pulling off their own piece and discovering the apple treasures hidden inside. The way the cinnamon sugar creates little pockets of sweetness makes every bite slightly different and completely irresistible.

Make Ahead Options

This monkey bread can be fully assembled the night before baking. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Allow the pan to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking and add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Storage Tips

Store leftover monkey bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. The texture is best on the first day but remains delicious when reheated. For longer storage refrigerate for up to 5 days though the bread may become slightly firmer.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this apple fritter monkey bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert or alongside a hot cup of coffee for breakfast. The contrast of temperatures creates an incredible eating experience especially when the ice cream melts slightly into the warm bread.

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of apples work best for this monkey bread?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji work best as they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet dough. These varieties won't break down into mush and their tartness balances the cinnamon-sugar coating.

→ Can I make this apple monkey bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the point of baking and refrigerate overnight. Allow extra baking time if cooking from cold. For best results, serve warm from the oven after letting it cool for 15-20 minutes.

→ What if I don't have a bundt pan?

While a bundt or tube pan creates the classic shape, you can use a 9×13 baking dish instead. The baking time may need adjustment, so check for doneness around 35-40 minutes. The presentation will be different but equally delicious.

→ How do I know when the monkey bread is fully baked?

The top should be golden brown, and the center should no longer be doughy. Insert a thin knife or skewer into the thickest part - it should come out clean with no raw dough attached. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F.

→ Can I freeze leftover apple fritter monkey bread?

Yes, leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven until warm.

→ What can I serve with this monkey bread?

This treat is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. For breakfast, pair with coffee or hot apple cider for a cozy autumn meal.