Ooey-Gooey Lemon Monkey Bread

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was originally designed for 16 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed, but cooking times remain the same.

Monkey Bread

• Cooking spray
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon packed grated lemon zest, plus extra for garnish
• 2 (16.3-ounce) cans Southern Homestyle biscuits, cut into quarters
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract

Lemon Drizzle

• 1/2 cup creamy lemon frosting
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Position the oven rack in the lower third. Grease a 12-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub together until the mixture is fragrant. Toss the biscuit pieces in the sugar mixture until fully coated, keeping the excess sugar on them.
3. Arrange the coated biscuit pieces evenly in the prepared Bundt pan.
4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with corn syrup, lemon extract, and about 1/2 cup of the reserved lemon-sugar mixture. Whisk constantly until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the biscuits.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and a thermometer inserted in the center reads 190F (87C). Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving platter.
6. For the drizzle, microwave the frosting in a small microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds until runny. Stir in the vanilla until smooth and drizzle evenly over the warm Monkey Bread.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 406
• Total Fat: 21g (27% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (43% DV)
• Cholesterol: 25mg (8% DV)
• Sodium: 393mg (17% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 52g (19% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 5g (9% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 155mg (12% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (11% DV)
• Potassium: 101mg (2% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.

The Story Behind Ooey-Gooey Lemon Monkey Bread

Monkey bread, in its earliest form, emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, often attributed to the popularity of pull-apart breads in Southern kitchens. Traditionally made with plain dough coated in cinnamon and sugar, it became a favorite for family gatherings and festive breakfasts. The lemon variation, as seen in this Ooey-Gooey Lemon Monkey Bread, is a modern twist that incorporates citrus zest and lemon-flavored frosting, giving the classic recipe a bright, tangy profile that balances the sweetness.

Regional Nuances

This lemon-infused version is particularly popular in American kitchens that favor bold flavors in desserts. While Southern-style monkey bread usually leans heavily on butter and brown sugar, regions with a fondness for citrus, such as California or Florida, often adapt the recipe with fresh lemon zest and lemon extracts. The combination of sweet and tart ingredients reflects a regional tendency to innovate on traditional comfort foods, making each batch uniquely aromatic and flavorful.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Desserts

Unlike cinnamon rolls or sticky buns, which are typically individually rolled and baked, monkey bread is made from bite-sized pieces of biscuit dough stacked together. The lemon version further differentiates itself with a buttery, citrus syrup that permeates every layer, producing a gooey interior without requiring yeast-based dough. The drizzle of lemon frosting adds a creamy, tangy finish, creating a flavor complexity absent in traditional sweet rolls.

Typical Occasions and Serving Styles

Ooey-Gooey Lemon Monkey Bread is most commonly served during brunches, holiday breakfasts, or special occasions like baby showers and weekend gatherings. Its pull-apart nature encourages sharing, making it a centerpiece dessert that is both interactive and indulgent. Often presented in a Bundt pan and inverted onto a platter, it offers a visually appealing, golden-brown loaf with glistening lemon glaze on top.

Interesting Facts

• The name monkey bread is believed to come from the way diners pick at the sticky pieces with their fingers, similar to the playful behavior of monkeys.
• Although modern recipes use store-bought biscuit dough for convenience, early versions required homemade dough and careful layering of sugar and butter.
• Lemon versions of monkey bread are a contemporary innovation, reflecting the increasing popularity of citrus flavors in desserts over the last two decades.
• The pull-apart style makes it naturally portion-controlled, perfect for casual gatherings without the need for slicing.
• Some bakers add poppy seeds or light zest variations to customize texture and flavor, showing the versatility of this dessert beyond its original sweet-and-spicy formula.

FAQ about Ooey-Gooey Lemon Monkey Bread