Craving a delicious snack that’s both fun to make and eat? Let me introduce you to Herb Cheese Monkey Bread! This flavorful recipe uses simple ingredients like biscuit dough, herbs, and cheese to create a dish that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this savory treat perfect for sharing at any gathering. Ready to elevate your snack game? Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough (16 oz each)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Fresh Herbs and Spices
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
– Extra fresh herbs for garnish
– Marinara sauce for dipping
When making Herb Cheese Monkey Bread, gather all your ingredients first. Start with the main ingredients. You need two cans of refrigerated biscuit dough. This will be the base of your bread. Next, grab one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. The mozzarella gives that gooey texture we all love. Then, use one cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a sharp flavor. Lastly, have half a cup of melted unsalted butter ready. This butter will help the dough and cheese blend well.
Next, let’s talk about the fresh herbs and spices. You want two tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped. This herb adds a nice touch of color and flavor. Then, include two tablespoons of fresh basil, also chopped. Basil brings a sweet and aromatic aspect to your dish. You will also need one tablespoon of fresh thyme. Thyme has a warm and earthy taste that pairs well with cheese. Don’t forget two cloves of minced garlic for a strong flavor kick. Add one teaspoon of garlic powder and half a teaspoon of onion powder for extra depth. Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking.
For those who want to elevate their dish, consider optional ingredients. Extra fresh herbs can make your monkey bread look even better. Serving marinara sauce on the side for dipping adds a fun twist. It’s great for sharing and enhances the whole experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the bundt cake pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
Making the Herbed Butter Mixture
– In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, basil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Mix well to form the herbed butter. This blend gives the bread its awesome flavor.
Assembling the Dough
– Open the cans of biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters.
– In a large bowl, add the biscuit pieces. Pour half of the herbed butter mixture over them.
– Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top. Toss everything until the dough is coated and the cheese is mixed in.
Layering the Monkey Bread
– Layer half of the coated biscuit pieces in the prepared bundt pan.
– Sprinkle the remaining cheese over this layer.
– Pour the rest of the herbed butter mixture on top.
– Add the remaining biscuit pieces, spreading them evenly in the pan.
Baking the Monkey Bread
– Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
– Check for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
– Carefully invert the bundt pan onto a serving platter. This will let the yummy bread come out easily.
This method makes your Herb Cheese Monkey Bread both tasty and fun to share!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting the Bread
– Make sure to coat all biscuit pieces evenly with the herbed butter. This step is key.
– Taste the herbed butter mixture. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
– Sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top for a nice finish. They add color and flavor.
– Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce pairs well with the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Always grease the bundt pan well. This helps the bread come out easily.
– Watch the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to dry bread. Aim for a golden brown color.
Variations
Cheesy Additions
You can make your Herb Cheese Monkey Bread even more fun by adding different cheeses. Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick. Cream cheese can also add a rich, creamy texture. You can mix and match cheeses based on what you love.
Herb Alternatives
If you don’t have fresh herbs, don’t worry! You can use dried herbs instead. They work well and add great flavor. Feel free to try different herb mixes. Oregano, rosemary, or dill can change the taste in a fun way.
Additional Fillings
Want to make it heartier? Add cooked meats like bacon or sausage. They bring a savory taste that many enjoy. You can also toss in roasted vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can boost flavor and nutrition.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Herb Cheese Monkey Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps to lock in flavor and moisture. It tastes best when eaten within 2-3 days. After that, the bread may lose its soft texture and cheesy goodness.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, warm them in the oven for the best results. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This makes the bread soft again and brings back the gooey cheese. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm. Just be careful not to overheat, or the bread may become tough.
Freezing the Monkey Bread
You can freeze your Herb Cheese Monkey Bread both before and after baking. If you freeze it before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you freeze it after baking, let it cool completely first. Wrap it the same way. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating. This way, you can enjoy this tasty treat any time!
FAQs
How can I make Herb Cheese Monkey Bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and herbed butter a day before. To do this, mix the melted butter, garlic, and herbs. Then, store this herbed butter in the fridge. Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and keep it in an airtight container. When you are ready to bake, combine the dough with the herbed butter and cheese. This saves you time and keeps the flavors fresh.
Can I use frozen biscuit dough?
Yes, you can use frozen biscuit dough. It works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first. Refrigerated dough is also great. Both options will give you a tasty monkey bread, so choose what you prefer or have on hand.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If you lack fresh herbs, dried herbs are a good choice. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, use about 2 teaspoons of dried parsley. This way, you can still enjoy great flavor even without fresh herbs.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians. It contains no meat or animal products besides butter and cheese. If you want to make it vegan, you can replace the butter with a plant-based option and use vegan cheese. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty vegetarian dish.
In this blog post, we explored how to make herb cheese monkey bread with simple ingredients and steps. From prepping the dough to baking, the process is easy and fun. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs and cheese to create your own twist. Use the tips for serving and storage to enjoy this dish later. This monkey bread is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. With a few adjustments, it can be a crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy your delicious creation!
