This healthier version of monkey bread offers a delightful twist on the classic pull-apart bread. Made with whole wheat flour and a reduced amount of sugar, it provides a guilt-free indulgence that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
The recipe is simple and perfect for breakfast or a snack. You can customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and nutrition.
Overview of Healthier Monkey Bread
This healthier version of monkey bread offers a delightful twist on the classic pull-apart bread.
Made with whole wheat flour and a reduced amount of sugar, it provides a guilt-free indulgence that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
The recipe is simple and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
You can customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients for a Delicious Treat
The key to this healthier monkey bread lies in its wholesome ingredients.
Using a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour gives the bread a hearty texture while maintaining a lightness that is enjoyable to eat.
Granulated sugar is used sparingly, and unsweetened applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness.
The addition of cinnamon enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a warm and inviting experience.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Preparing this monkey bread is straightforward and can be done in about 45 minutes.
Start by preheating your oven and greasing a bundt pan to ensure easy removal after baking.
Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.
Combining them creates a soft dough that is easy to work with, allowing you to form small balls that will be coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Baking to Perfection
Once the dough balls are rolled and coated, they are layered into the bundt pan.
Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes results in a golden-brown crust that is both appealing and delicious.
After baking, let the monkey bread cool slightly before inverting it onto a serving plate.
The anticipation of pulling apart the fluffy pieces is part of the joy of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This monkey bread is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family breakfasts.
Serve it warm, and consider placing a small bowl of cinnamon-sugar mixture nearby for those who want an extra sprinkle of sweetness.
Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
The versatility of this dish allows for various toppings or dips, enhancing the experience even further.
Nutrition and Benefits
This healthier monkey bread serves eight pieces, making it a great option for a group.
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
By using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar, this recipe offers a more nutritious alternative to traditional monkey bread, allowing you to enjoy a classic favorite without the guilt.
Easy Healthier Monkey Bread Recipe
This healthier monkey bread features soft, fluffy dough pieces coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, baked until golden brown. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together applesauce, milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in nuts or dried fruit.
- Prepare Dough Balls: Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Layer in Pan: Place the coated dough balls in the prepared bundt pan, layering them evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Pull apart and enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 pieces
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g