Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread Recipe

If you’re craving something comforting, fun, and utterly decadent, you absolutely have to try Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread. This easy-to-make treat combines gooey cinnamon rolls, the warmth of brown sugar and cinnamon, and the magic of your slow cooker for a delightfully pull-apart breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether it’s for a holiday morning or a cozy weekend at home, this recipe is as simple as it is spectacular—and it will have the whole house smelling like a bakery in no time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread is blissfully short and simple, yet each element is vital for that irresistible gooey, sweet, and cinnamon-packed result. Here’s how each piece comes together to make a truly memorable dish.

• Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): The star of the show, ensuring tender and fluffy bites throughout, plus you get that luscious ready-made icing!
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a sweet crunch to every bite and helps caramelize the dough just right.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and that classic cinnamon roll flavor everybody loves.
• Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Melts into a gooey caramel sauce that seeps into every crevice of your monkey bread.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): The buttery richness kicks up the decadence and keeps things ultra-moist.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for easy cleanup and ensuring each piece comes out of the crockpot perfectly intact (or use parchment for extra insurance).

How to Make Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by generously spraying the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray, or, for added peace of mind, line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that all the ooey-gooey goodness releases easily when serving, and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cut and Coat the Dough

Open both cans of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and set the icing aside for later—don’t worry, it’ll have its delicious moment! Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters so you get bite-sized pieces that’ll nestle together perfectly. In a large zip-top bag, add the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Toss in the dough pieces, seal up the bag, and give it a vigorous shake so every surface is covered in that sweet cinnamon magic.

Step 3: Prepare the Gooey Butter Mixture

Melt the unsalted butter and stir it together with the packed brown sugar in a small bowl. This creates a rich, caramel-like sauce that’s about to take your Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread to new heights of gooeyness.

Step 4: Layer and Drizzle

Start layering half of the cinnamon sugar-coated dough balls in the bottom of your prepared slow cooker. Drizzle with half of your brown sugar butter mixture. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces and finish with the last of the butter mixture. These layers ensure that every inch of dough gets a generous helping of that gooey sauce.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let your Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the dough is cooked through and lightly golden around the edges. The hardest part is resisting the aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Rest and Ice

Once done, turn off the slow cooker and uncover it. Let the monkey bread sit for about 10 minutes to firm up just enough for perfect serving. Then, warm the reserved icing slightly if needed and drizzle it generously over the top. Serve warm for maximum gooey, pull-apart bliss.

How to Serve Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference. Drizzle the classic icing over the top, and if you want even more oomph, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of extra elegance, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into dessert heaven.

Side Dishes

This rich, sweet dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a tart fruit salad to balance the flavors. For breakfast, serve alongside savory options like scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to create the ultimate brunch spread. And of course, a cup of hot coffee or a spicy chai latte complements every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, carefully unmold the Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread onto a fancy cake stand for a show-stopping centerpiece. Individual servings in pretty bowls or cups with extra icing drizzled over the top also make for charming presentation. You can even make mini versions in small slow cookers for an adorable personal touch at brunch parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or pop them in the fridge for up to 4 days. The moisture from the crockpot helps the bread stay tender, so your next-day slices are still enticingly soft and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to store Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread for a longer stretch, simply let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently warm straight from the freezer when a craving hits.

Reheating

For best results, microwave individual servings for 20 to 30 seconds until just warmed through. If reheating larger portions, cover loosely with foil and bake at 325°F for 10-15 minutes. Add a little extra icing after warming if you want to recapture that just-made magic.

FAQs

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the monkey bread?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even raisins make wonderful add-ins. Just sprinkle them between the layers as you assemble for extra flavor and a delightful texture contrast.

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of canned?

Yes, if you love baking from scratch, homemade dough works beautifully. Just prepare enough dough for roughly 16 rolls, bake as instructed, and enjoy the added personal touch.

What if I don’t have a 6-quart slow cooker?

No worries—you can use a slightly larger or smaller model, but monitor the cooking time; larger cookers may bake a bit faster, while smaller ones might need a little extra time to make sure the center cooks through.

Is it possible to make Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread ahead of time?

You can assemble the entire dish the night before and refrigerate it (unbaked) right in the slow cooker insert. In the morning, simply bring it slightly closer to room temp and start the slow cooker. Ideal for special occasion or holiday mornings!

How do I know when the monkey bread is done?

The edges should be golden and set, and the interior should be tender and cooked through but not doughy. You can gently lift a piece from the center to check for doneness if you’re unsure—trust your nose and look for those golden edges.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding a hungry brunch crowd or just indulging yourself on a quiet morning, this Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Monkey Bread delivers comfort and joy in every bite. Give it a try and you’ll see—one taste and you’ll be asked for the recipe time and time again!

Print