Ah, the holiday season! It’s that wonderful time of year when the air is filled with the scent of fresh pine, twinkling lights cast a gentle glow, and cozy gatherings with loved ones become the norm. One of my absolute favorite recipes to whip up while sipping on some festive drinks is my Eggnog Monkey Bread. This delightful twist on a classic pull-apart bread uses that creamy, rich taste of eggnog to elevate a simple treat into something truly magical.
Every time I make it, I’m transported back to those chilly winter evenings spent baking with my grandmother, who would always say, “The best recipes are the ones that bring everyone together.” I can still hear her laughter and see the flour-dusted countertops! This recipe is not only fun to make with friends and family, it also fills your home with an incredible aroma that will have everyone ready to dig in! Just a warning: this monkey bread disappears fast, so be prepared for second and third helpings!
What’s in Eggnog Monkey Bread?
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: The base of our monkey bread! I love using two cans of the 16 oz dough because it makes the process super quick. You’ll find that these little doughy nuggets puff up beautifully in the oven.
Granulated Sugar: A classic sweetener that gives our cinnamon sugar mixture a delightful sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon: This warm spice adds that cozy, holiday flavor that ties the whole dish together.
Unsalted Butter: I always opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness, allowing the sweet flavors to shine through.
Eggnog: The star of the show! Rich and creamy, this festive drink transforms our monkey bread into a seasonal delight. Make sure to use your favorite brand or even homemade if you’re feeling ambitious!
Nutmeg: A pinch of this aromatic spice complements the eggnog flavor and gives a hint of extra holiday cheer.
Brown Sugar: Packed and full of molasses flavor, it adds a lovely depth to the sweet mixture.
Powdered Sugar: We use this for the glaze that finishes off our monkey bread to add that perfect touch of sweetness.
Milk: Just a splash helps blend our glaze to a smooth consistency.
Vanilla Extract: A classic flavoring that enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the glaze.
Optional Whipped Cream: Who could resist a dollop or two of whipped cream on top? It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Is Eggnog Monkey Bread Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health! This Eggnog Monkey Bread is not exactly a health food, but hey, it’s the holidays, right? Enjoying a piece in moderation is all part of the festive fun.
Egnog: While it’s indulgent, eggnog does offer some vitamin D and calcium, thanks to the milk content. Just try to choose a version that’s lower in sugar if you are watching your intake.
Butter: Yes, it’s rich, but real butter can be part of a balanced diet. Just remember to indulge wisely.
In short, this monkey bread is meant to be enjoyed in the spirit of the season, surrounded by good company and laughs. But if you want to make it a bit “healthier,” maybe pair it with some fresh fruit on the side!
How to Make Eggnog Monkey Bread?
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with cooking spray or a bit of butter to make sure the bread comes out easily.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together your granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Grab those cans of biscuit dough and open them up! Cut each biscuit into quarters, then toss the pieces in your cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re well coated. This is the fun part!
4. In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggnog, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Stir until you’ve got a smooth mixture.
5. Layer half of your coated biscuit pieces into the prepared bundt pan. Pour half of that delicious eggnog mixture over the biscuit pieces.
6. Now add the remaining biscuit dough pieces into the bundt pan, and pour the rest of the eggnog mixture on top. This is where the magic starts!
7. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Just the sight of it turning golden is sure to make your mouth water!
8. Once done baking, let your monkey bread cool for about 10 minutes before you invert it onto a serving plate. This will help it retain its beautiful shape!
9. While it’s cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth for the glaze. Then, drizzle it generously over the warm monkey bread.
10. Serve it warm, and if you’re feeling extra festive, top with some whipped cream!
Sweet Tips and Serving Suggestions
Let’s talk about some ways to take this Eggnog Monkey Bread to the next level. If you’re planning a special gathering, consider adding spices like cloves or even a hint of orange zest to the dough for a unique twist. You could also use flavored eggnogs, like pumpkin spice or vanilla, to create a flavor explosion.
Serve your monkey bread with a side of hot chocolate or a warm spiced cider for a complete holiday experience. Trust me, your guests will rave about this!
So go ahead, grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try! I can promise you laughter, joyful memories, and a scrumptious treat that will become a holiday favorite in no time. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your baked masterpiece!
