Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, Pillsbury Grands Southern Homestyle preferred; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons whole milk; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Author: Lora

Published: November 5, 2025

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Introduction to Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

As a home cook, I’ve often faced the challenge of whipping up something quick and delightful when the kids—or just my sweet tooth—calls. That’s where these Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites come in. They’re soft, buttery, and completely coated in that lovely, sweet cinnamon flavor. Trust me, they’ll have your family asking for seconds! Whether it’s for a cozy family night or an impromptu coffee gathering with friends, this treat is easy enough for a weekday yet indulgent enough for special occasions. Let’s dive into the joy of creating these fluffy bites!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

These Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites are the epitome of comfort food—simple to make and utterly irresistible! In just over half an hour, you can transform a can of biscuit dough into fluffy balls of joy that are perfect for any occasion. They’re great for busy afternoons or sweet cravings, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love that warm, nostalgic taste of cinnamon sugar? You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

Let’s gather what we need to create these scrumptious Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making your treats both delightful and delicious. Here’s a breakdown:

Refrigerated biscuit dough: I love using Pillsbury Grands Southern Homestyle for that soft, fluffy texture. You can also opt for any brand that you trust.
Ground cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and sweetness. The aromatic fragrance will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist munching on these bites.
Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness to your cinnamon mixture and enhances the sugary coating.
Unsalted butter: Melting this adds richness and that buttery goodness, making the bites taste homemade.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavors beautifully.
Powdered sugar: This will be your secret weapon for the glaze, making it smooth and sweet without any grittiness.
Whole milk: A splash ensures your glaze is pourable and creamy. You could use a non-dairy milk if preferred.
Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the glaze; pure vanilla will yield the best results.

If you want to elevate your bites, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix for an extra layer of flavor. For those who might not have all these ingredients, don’t fret! Most can be found in your pantry or easily substituted with similar items. You’ll find exact measurements at the end of this article for a handy reference when baking.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

Creating Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites is not only simple but also a delightful way to spend time in the kitchen. Let’s go through each step together, so you can enjoy these little morsels of happiness in no time!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures your bites bake evenly! While the oven warms, grab a 9-inch pie pan and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial for preventing any sticky surprises later on when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Next, it’s time to melt that unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in a pinch of kosher salt to give your bites that perfect savory touch. Let it cool slightly. In another bowl, combine ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. Mixing them well creates that dreamy cinnamon-sugar combo we all adore!

Step 3: Prepare the Dough Balls

Open the can of biscuit dough carefully—it can be a bit of a pop! Cut each biscuit into four equal pieces. Don’t worry if your pieces aren’t perfect. Just roll each piece between your palms to form small, tender balls. These little dough balls are going to be the magical base for your bites.

Step 4: Coat the Dough Balls

Now for the fun part! Dip each dough ball into the melted butter, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until it’s dressed in that sweet goodness. Place the coated balls snugly in the prepared pie pan. Repeat this process until all pieces are coated. It’s okay if they touch; they’ll bake up beautifully together!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 23 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely, deep golden brown. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While your bites are baking, let’s whip up the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, whole milk, and the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and pourable. This sweet drizzle is going to elevate your bites to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once your monkey bread bites are out of the oven, drizzle half the glaze over the warm bites. It’ll melt into all those delicious crevices. Save the rest of the glaze for dipping! Serve these warm for the best experience, and watch your loved ones indulge in every bite. Enjoy the smiles!

Tips for Success

Make sure to coat the dough balls evenly for maximum flavor and sweetness.
Monitor the baking time closely; ovens can vary, so adjust as needed.
Serve your bites warm for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Feel free to experiment with different glazes—like cream cheese frosting for a twist!
Don’t skip greasing the pan; it’s your best friend in preventing sticking!

Equipment Needed

9-inch pie pan: A classic choice, but any similar-sized baking dish works just as well.
Mixing bowls: Use two separate bowls for mixing the butter and dry ingredients; even a large resealable bag can do the job!
Whisk or fork: Perfect for blending the glaze, but a spoon will suffice in a pinch.

Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

Maple Pecan Twist: Add chopped pecans to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a delightful crunch and a touch of maple syrup in the glaze.
Cocoa Delight: Mix cocoa powder with the cinnamon-sugar for a chocolatey version that’ll satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Fruit-Stuffed Bites: Insert small pieces of fresh apple or berries in the center of each dough ball before coating for a fruity surprise.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free biscuit dough available in most grocery stores for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon-sugar for a sweet and spicy flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.
Consider adding fresh fruit on the side for a light contrast to the sweetness.
Serve bites on a decorative platter with a small bowl of the reserved glaze for dipping!

FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites

Can I make these Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough balls and coat them ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply let them sit at room temperature for a bit before popping them in the oven.

What can I use if I don’t have biscuit dough?

No worries! You can substitute with homemade dough or even use crescent roll dough for a flakier texture. Just adjust the baking time if needed since different doughs may vary.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within two days. You might even warm them up a touch in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel!

Can I freeze these bites?

Yes, you can! Once baked and cooled, freeze the bites in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container. Just reheat in the oven for a quick treat whenever you crave something sweet!

How do I make these bites less sweet?

If you’re looking to tone down the sweetness, try reducing the sugar in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also switch to a less sweet glaze or skip it altogether for a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread Bites is more than just baking; it’s about sharing warmth and joy with those you love. The ease of preparation allows you to whip them up during a busy week or for a special gathering without breaking a sweat. Watching family and friends really enjoy these delightful bites warms my heart. There’s nothing better than the cozy feeling of sharing a homemade treat, especially one that’s so simple yet utterly delicious. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does, and that it brings you as much happiness as it does to us!