Orange Monkey Bread: A Zesty Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch treat that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than Orange Monkey Bread! This delightful dish takes the beloved classic cinnamon and sugar monkey bread and gives it a refreshing twist with the bright, zesty flavor of orange. Perfect for weekend brunches or holiday gatherings, this pull-apart bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its irresistible aroma and sweet citrus notes, it will have everyone lining up for seconds!

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Ingredients (Serves 8)

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
Zest of 1 large orange
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
2 (10 oz) cans of refrigerated biscuit dough
Optional: 1 teaspoon orange extract (for an extra boost of flavor)

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Bundt pan or tube pan
Spoon or spatula
Oven mitts
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Orange Monkey Bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
Prepare the Orange Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the zest of one orange. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar; this releases the natural oils in the zest and enhances the flavor. Add the freshly squeezed orange juice to the mixture and whisk until well combined. Set aside.
Melt the Butter
In another bowl, melt the stick of butter in the microwave or on the stove. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the biscuit dough.
Cut the Biscuit Dough
Open the cans of biscuit dough and separate each biscuit. Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, cut each biscuit into quarters. This will allow the dough to pull apart easily once baked.
Coat the Dough Pieces
Dip each biscuit piece into the melted butter, ensuring they are well-coated. Then, roll each piece in the orange sugar mixture until they are evenly covered. This step is where the magic happens, as it infuses the dough with sweet citrus flavor!
Layer in the Bundt Pan
Place the coated biscuit pieces in the prepared Bundt pan, layering them as you go. If you have any remaining orange sugar mixture, sprinkle it over the top for added sweetness.
Bake the Monkey Bread
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the pan onto a cooling rack, allowing the monkey bread to release. Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Optional Variations and Creative Additions

Cinnamon Swirl: For a touch of nostalgia, add a sprinkle of cinnamon between the layers of biscuit dough for a cinnamon-orange fusion.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the orange sugar mixture for a delightful crunch.
Frosting Drizzle: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the top of the cooled bread for an extra sweet finish.
Fruit Addition: Incorporate small pieces of fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries between the layers for added color and flavor.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve the Orange Monkey Bread warm directly from the Bundt pan or transfer it to a decorative cake stand for a beautiful display at your brunch table.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of orange juice. Consider adding some savory options like scrambled eggs or breakfast meats for a complete meal.

FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices

Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: You can prepare the dough pieces ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just coat them in butter and sugar before baking when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How should I store leftover monkey bread?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Q: Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of refrigerated?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer making your own biscuit dough, just ensure it has a similar texture to the store-bought variety for the best results.

Q: Is it possible to freeze this monkey bread?
A: Yes! You can freeze the baked monkey bread for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Orange Monkey Bread

Orange Monkey Bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. With its easy-to-make steps and vibrant flavors, it’s a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to impress. Perfect for brunches, holiday breakfasts, or even a cozy family gathering, this dish will fill your home with the warm and inviting scent of freshly baked bread. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the delightful taste of Orange Monkey Bread that will have everyone asking for the recipe!