If you’re craving a warm, buttery treat, you’re in the right place! Garlic Herb Monkey Bread is a savory delight that’s simple to make and perfect for any gathering. With crispy edges, gooey cheese, and fresh herbs, this dish will impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into this easy recipe? Let’s get started and transform your kitchen into a fragrant haven of flavor!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Flour and Yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
– Butter and Oil
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water (110°F)
– Fresh Herbs and Garlic
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– Cheese and Seasoning
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Gather these ingredients to make your garlic herb monkey bread. Each item adds flavor and texture. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic makes this bread highly aromatic and tasty. The cheese adds a savory touch and makes it melt in your mouth.
You will love how easy this recipe is. The dough comes together quickly. Just mix the ingredients and let them rise. You will create a soft, fluffy bread that pulls apart easily. This dish is perfect for sharing or serving at gatherings. Enjoy the fun of pulling apart each piece.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Activating the Yeast
Start by mixing warm water with sugar and yeast. This helps the yeast grow. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. You will see bubbles on top when it’s ready.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a small well in the center. This is where you will add the wet mix.
Combining Ingredients
Now, pour the yeast mix, melted butter, and olive oil into the well. Stir this until it forms a dough.
Kneading and Rising
Kneading Technique
Put the dough on a floured surface. Knead it for 5-7 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic. Don’t rush; this step is key.
First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which takes about 1 hour.
Shaping and Second Rise
Preparing the Garlic Herb Coating
While the dough rises, mix the minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. This will give your bread great flavor.
Shaping Dough Balls
After the first rise, punch down the dough. Divide it into small pieces, about 1 inch each. Roll each piece into a ball.
Arranging in Bundt Pan
Dip each ball in the garlic herb mix, coating it well. Place the coated balls in a greased bundt pan. Stack them up nicely.
Baking
Preheating the Oven
Before you bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important for even cooking.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the monkey bread for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown color on top.
Cooling Before Serving
After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Then invert it onto a plate. Serve warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Monkey Bread
Temperature Considerations
Warm water helps the yeast wake up. Aim for 110°F. Too hot kills the yeast. Too cold slows it down. Always check the water’s warmth before mixing.
Ensuring Dough Rises Properly
Dough needs a warm, draft-free space to rise. Use a towel to cover it. This keeps the heat in. A good rise takes about one hour. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the bowl near a warm oven.
Achieving the Best Flavor
Fresh herbs add great taste. I love using parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Mix them with minced garlic and Parmesan cheese. This blend gives the bread a rich, savory flavor.
Presentation Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bread warm. Drizzle with melted butter for extra flavor. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for color. This makes the dish look inviting. Use a nice plate to display your creation.
Using Dipping Sauces
Pair the monkey bread with dipping sauces. Marinara or garlic butter work well. Small bowls make it easy for guests to dip. This adds fun and flavor to your meal.
Variations
Alternative Flavors
Adding Cheese Variants
You can add many types of cheese to your monkey bread. Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta all work great. Cheese gives the bread a nice, gooey texture. Simply mix the cheese into the garlic herb blend. This adds flavor and richness.
Other Herbs and Seasonings
Feel free to swap out the herbs in the recipe. Basil, oregano, or dill can add a unique twist. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for heat. Mixing and matching herbs lets you create your perfect flavor.
Dietary Adjustments
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill offer great blends. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. The bread may have a different texture, but it will still taste great.
Vegan Substitutions
To make this recipe vegan, replace butter with a plant-based option. You can use coconut oil or vegan butter. For the cheese, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese. These changes keep the flavor while making it suitable for everyone.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Method
– Refrigerating Leftovers: Let your garlic herb monkey bread cool completely. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
– Freezing Options: For longer storage, you can freeze monkey bread. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Label it with the date. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
– Oven vs. Microwave: The oven gives the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Place a single piece on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds. Be careful, as it can become chewy if overcooked.
Enjoy your delicious garlic herb monkey bread any time with these simple storage and reheating tips!
FAQs
How long does it take to make garlic herb monkey bread?
It takes about two hours to make garlic herb monkey bread. This includes prep time and the rising time for the dough. Setting aside 20 minutes for prep and about 1 hour for the first rise is key. The second rise takes another 30-45 minutes. Finally, you bake it for 30-35 minutes.
Can I use different herbs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use different herbs in this recipe. If you prefer basil or oregano, feel free to swap them in. Fresh herbs add great flavor, but dried herbs work too. Just use less of them since dried herbs are stronger.
How can I make monkey bread ahead of time?
To make monkey bread ahead of time, prepare the dough and shape it into balls. After coating them, place the balls in the bundt pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can bake it the next day. Just let it rise for 30 minutes before baking.
What is the best way to reheat monkey bread?
The best way to reheat monkey bread is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the monkey bread on a baking tray covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This keeps it soft and tasty.
Is garlic herb monkey bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, garlic herb monkey bread is suitable for freezing. After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Making garlic herb monkey bread is simple and fun. You learned the key ingredients like flour, yeast, and fresh herbs. I detailed steps from dough prep to baking, ensuring great results. Tips helped you improve flavor and presentation. Plus, variations and storage info keep options open.
In closing, this bread is perfect for sharing. Try different herbs or cheeses to make it your own. Follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious snack anytime. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun!
