Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe
If you have a soft spot for warm, gooey, sweet treats that feel like a big, comforting hug, then you are going to absolutely adore this Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe. It’s an effortless way to bring the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls into a fun, pull-apart bread that practically melts in your mouth. Cooking it low and slow in the crockpot means you get a tender, caramelized experience that feels homemade but couldn’t be simpler to pull off. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe brings comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is your first step toward creating a show-stopping sweet treat. Each plays a crucial role: from the tender cinnamon roll dough forming the scrumptious base, to the sugar and spices that coat the bites in irresistible flavor, and finally, the butter and cream combo that’s responsible for that luscious caramelized finish.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon roll dough: The soft, ready-to-go dough creates those perfect pockets of cinnamon-spiced joy.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides a subtle sweetness and helps the cinnamon stick to each dough piece.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that adds warmth and depth to every bite.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that sticky, golden coating.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Offers molasses notes and moisture for the caramelized topping effect.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Gives the sugar mixture a creamy texture to evenly coat and soak into the bread.
- Non-stick cooking spray: Essential for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
- Optional toppings (powdered sugar glaze, chopped pecans, raisins): Personalize your bread with extra sweetness or a crunchy contrast.
How to Make Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep your crockpot
Start by spraying your crockpot generously with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your monkey bread pulls away easily once it’s cooked and helps you avoid any sticky situations.
Step 2: Cut and coat the dough pieces
Open the cans of cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into four bite-sized pieces. Don’t throw away those icing packets just yet — you’ll need them later! Next, toss the dough chunks in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon so that every piece gets fully coated with that sweet, spicy goodness.
Step 3: Layer the cinnamon-coated dough
With your dough pieces beautifully dusted, layer them evenly into the bottom of your crockpot. This layering helps all the little bites cook together but still stay tender and distinct, creating that perfect pull-apart texture.
Step 4: Mix and pour the caramel sauce
In a bowl, combine the melted butter, packed brown sugar, and heavy cream. This rich mixture will soak into the dough while cooking, caramelizing around each bite and infusing it with incredible flavor. Pour this sauce evenly over the layered dough pieces in the crockpot.
Step 5: Slow-cook to perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours. The slow, gentle heat lets the dough rise and absorb all those sticky flavors without burning, giving you that tender, pull-apart texture soaked in caramel cinnamon magic.
Step 6: Finish and serve
Once the cooking time is up, allow the bread to cool slightly before drizzling the reserved icing on top or adding any optional toppings like chopped pecans or raisins. This finishing touch adds both flavor and a really pretty presentation that will wow everyone at your table.
How to Serve Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
The icing packets reserved from the cinnamon roll cans become a quick glaze that adds a creamy sweetness right on top. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans for crunch or raisins for bursts of chewy sweetness. Powdered sugar dusting also brightens up the appearance and adds a subtle finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This monkey bread shines as a standalone treat but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or smoky bacon to balance the sweetness with savory flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn it into a decadent dessert too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it straight from the crockpot for a casual, comforting vibe where guests can pull apart each bite themselves. Alternatively, invert it gently onto a pretty plate or cake stand for a warm centerpiece that looks as inviting as it tastes. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for personal servings at parties or brunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and that’s a big if), store them covered tightly in the refrigerator. This keeps the bread moist and allows the flavors to develop even more overnight.
Freezing
Crockpot cinnamon roll monkey bread freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When you want a quick sweet fix, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up gently.
Reheating
To bring leftover monkey bread back to life, warm it in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a low oven until heated through. Adding a small splash of cream or a little extra butter before reheating can help restore that gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of canned?
Yes! Homemade cinnamon roll dough works wonderfully and can enhance the freshness of your monkey bread, though canned dough keeps the recipe hassle-free and quick.
How do I know when the monkey bread is fully cooked?
The bread is done when it’s risen, firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. It should look golden and bubbly through the crockpot lid.
Can I make this recipe in an oven instead of a crockpot?
Absolutely! You can bake it in a bundt pan at 350°F for about 30 to 35 minutes, but the slow cooker version gives a uniquely soft and gooey texture you won’t get easily with baking.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the sauce?
Heavy cream helps create that rich, velvety caramel sauce, but if you want to lighten it up, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half—just expect a slightly thinner sauce.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit inside the monkey bread?
Definitely! Toss chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins with the dough pieces for added texture and flavor throughout the bread.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe is the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy, indulgent, and every pull-apart piece is packed with cinnamon-sugary bliss. I truly hope you give it a go—because everyone deserves a little warm magic in their day, and this monkey bread brings just that. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become your new favorite go-to for gatherings or cozy mornings.
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Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the fun, pull-apart texture of monkey bread. Prepared in a slow cooker, it requires minimal effort and delivers a warm, fragrant treat perfect for breakfasts, brunches, or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Other
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar glaze, chopped pecans, raisins
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the crockpot generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cut the Dough: Open the refrigerated cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into four equal pieces. Keep the icing packets separately for later use.
- Coat the Dough: In a bowl, toss the cinnamon roll pieces with granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Layer the Dough: Place the coated dough pieces evenly in the bottom of the prepared crockpot, creating a layer of sweet cinnamon-covered dough.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is uniform.
- Pour the Sauce: Evenly pour this butter, brown sugar, and cream mixture over the dough pieces in the crockpot, ensuring it seeps through the layers.
- Cook: Cover and cook on the low setting for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the dough is fully cooked through and gooey.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the monkey bread to cool slightly. Drizzle with reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls or add optional toppings such as powdered sugar glaze, chopped pecans, or raisins. Serve warm directly from the crockpot or transfer to a serving plate.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your crockpot model.
- Use the icing packets included with the cinnamon rolls to drizzle on top for added sweetness.
- Add mix-ins like nuts or raisins before cooking for extra texture and flavor.
- To reheat leftovers, warm gently in the microwave or crockpot on low.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
