Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread is a savory delight that combines soft, buttery dough with crispy bacon and gooey cheddar cheese. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, and it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of melting cheese and sizzling bacon, making it hard to resist diving in as soon as it’s out of the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

This delightful bread offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. Here’s why it stands out:

It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
Perfect for sharing at brunch or as a snack during game day.
Combines the smoky, savory taste of bacon with sharp cheddar cheese.
Versatile enough to be served with various dips or sauces.
Can be customized with different cheeses or add-ins.
Ideal for meal prep and reheating, making it a great choice for busy days.
Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as leftovers, it’s delicious either way.

This Bacon Cheddar Pull-Apart Bread is not just a treat; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

Gather these items:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted & slightly cooled
3/4 cup whole milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast (2–1/4 teaspoons)
1/4 cup warm water
2 and 1/2 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
1 teaspoon salt
12 slices bacon
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the yeast and sugar to a small bowl. Gently pour the warm water over it. Let it proof until foamy, about 10 minutes.
Step 2: In a large bowl, melt the butter. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Once butter is slightly cooled, whisk in the milk, egg, and the proofed yeast mixture.
Step 4: Add the flour and salt and stir until well combined. Using well-floured hands, form dough into a moist ball. Place in a buttered bowl and cover in plastic wrap. Let dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 and 1/2 hours.
Step 5: While the dough is rising, fry the bacon until extra crisp, reserving 1/4 cup of the bacon fat. Let bacon cool on a paper towel and then crumble into bits.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9 or 10-inch tube pan. Sprinkle 1/4 cup cheese and a few tablespoons of bacon onto the bottom of the tube pan.
Step 7: Gently punch down on the risen dough to release the air bubbles. Take half of the dough and form it into 1-inch size balls, dipping each one into the reserved bacon fat before placing into the bottom of the tube pan. Arrange with about thumb space between the balls.
Step 8: Sprinkle dough balls with 1 and 1/4 cups cheese and half of the remaining bacon bits.
Step 9: Form remaining dough into 1-inch size balls, dip in remaining bacon fat, and place on top of the first layer in the tube pan. Sprinkle dough balls evenly with remaining cheese and bacon bits.
Step 10: Place tube pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted and crisp on top.
Step 11: Let cool for just 5 minutes before running a knife around the edges and inverting onto a serving plate. Serve warm or cooled.

Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

Keep these in mind:

Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
Ensure bacon is very crispy for the best texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or parsley.

Best Ways to Serve Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

This savory monkey bread is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate the experience:

Pair it with a spicy ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Serve it alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Make it a centerpiece for your brunch table, garnished with fresh herbs.

How to Store and Reheat Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

To keep your Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This method ensures the bread remains fluffy and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread?

The key is to allow the dough to rise fully before baking, which creates that fluffy texture. Using crispy bacon and quality cheddar cheese also enhances the flavor.

Can I make Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and form the balls ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the morning for a fresh breakfast experience.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread?

Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising and avoid overbaking to keep the bread moist. Following the steps carefully will yield the best results.

Variations of Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread You Can Try

Here are a few delicious twists on the classic recipe:

Substitute bacon with sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
Add jalapeños for a spicy kick in your monkey bread.
Incorporate different cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella for variety.
Make a sweet version by adding cinnamon sugar and apples for a dessert twist.

Delicious Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread Recipe for Brunch - Bacon Cheddar Monkey Bread - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Chocolate Oatmeal Bars for a sweet treat!

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For more information on the benefits of using fresh ingredients, visit Healthline.

Additionally, if you’re interested in more savory bread recipes, check out our Caramel Whiskey Bread Pudding or Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup!