Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s perfect for any gathering: Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread! This fun recipe combines warm cinnamon rolls, juicy apples, and rich caramel in a pull-apart style that’s hard to resist. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a delicious dessert that will have everyone craving more. Let’s dive in and whip up this delightful dish together!
Ingredients
Detailed list of ingredients
– 2 cans (16 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (preferably Granny Smith)
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For this delightful treat, gather your ingredients first. The cinnamon rolls are the star of this dish. Using two cans of refrigerated rolls makes it easy. I like using Granny Smith apples for their tartness. They balance the sweet caramel and brown sugar.
Next, we need brown sugar. It adds a rich, deep flavor and helps create that lovely caramelization. Unsalted butter is key for moisture and richness. Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice to our mix.
If you want to add crunch, consider nuts. Pecans or walnuts work well. Lastly, caramel sauce is a must. It drizzles beautifully on top. You can use store-bought or make your own for extra fun.
With these ingredients ready, you are set to create something special. Each item works together to build layers of flavor. Don’t skip any of them!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
– Open the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters.
– In a bowl, mix chopped apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
Layering the monkey bread
– Dip each cinnamon roll piece in melted butter, then coat in the apple mix.
– Place the coated pieces in the bundt pan.
– If you like, sprinkle chopped nuts over each layer.
Baking and finishing touches
– Bake the monkey bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
– Warm the caramel sauce while it bakes.
– Once baked, cool for 10 minutes and flip it onto a plate.
– Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the monkey bread and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting your monkey bread
Choosing the right apples
For this recipe, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. They add a nice tartness that balances well with the sweet caramel and cinnamon. Their firmness holds up well during baking. If you prefer sweeter apples, Fuji or Honeycrisp can work too. Just remember, you want some tang to cut through the sweetness.
Best practices for baking
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your bundt pan well is key. This helps the monkey bread release easily after baking. When you layer the cinnamon roll pieces, make sure to pack them loosely. This allows the heat to circulate for even baking. Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. You want it golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes.
Serving suggestions
Pairing with ice cream
Serving this monkey bread warm is a must! I love adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey bread. You can even drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the ice cream for a sweet touch.
Presentation tips
For a lovely presentation, serve your monkey bread on a nice platter. After inverting it from the pan, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top. This creates a beautiful, sticky glaze. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair.

Variations
Alternative ingredients
You can change up the nuts in this recipe. Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. Each nut adds its own flavor and crunch. You can also mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Want to boost the flavor? Add spices like nutmeg or ginger. A splash of vanilla extract can also enhance the taste. These simple swaps make your monkey bread even more unique.
Dietary modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. Make sure to check labels for any gluten sources.
For a vegan adaptation, use plant-based butter and almond milk. Choose vegan cinnamon rolls too. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Storage Info
Proper storage methods
To keep your caramel apple cinnamon roll monkey bread fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will help keep the moisture in. If you don’t have a container, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will also work well.
For longer storage, you can freeze the monkey bread. To do this, cut it into pieces. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out just what you want later. It will stay good for about two to three months in the freezer.
Reheating instructions
When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is key. The best way to do this is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the monkey bread in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place a piece on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for about 20-30 seconds. Check to see if it’s warm enough. If not, heat for a few more seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it, or it might get tough. Enjoy your warm treat!
FAQs
Common questions about preparation
How long does it take to make?
It takes about 50 minutes to make this monkey bread. You will need 15 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for baking. This time can vary a bit based on your oven.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can use homemade cinnamon rolls. Just make sure they are similar in size to store-bought ones. This will help with even baking.
Serving and enjoying
How to store leftover monkey bread?
Store leftover monkey bread in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the monkey bread a day ahead. Just follow the steps up to the baking part. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
This blog post covered a tasty monkey bread recipe made with cinnamon rolls and apples. I shared ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You can customize this dish with nuts or spices to fit your taste. The storage and reheating tips help keep it fresh. Enjoy this delightful treat, perfect for sharing or a cozy night in. Try it out, and feel free to experiment with your own twists!



