Air Fryer Monkey Bread (Easy Pull Apart Recipe)
Air fryer monkey bread is a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with very little effort. The combination of buttery biscuit dough, cinnamon sugar, and caramel-like sauce creates a pull-apart treat that’s perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Monkey Bread
This recipe is a favorite for several reasons:
- Uses simple ingredients
- No yeast required
- Perfect for beginners
- Ready faster than oven versions
- Great for breakfast or dessert
- Easy to customize with add-ins
The combination of buttery biscuit dough and cinnamon sugar creates a comforting treat that disappears quickly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped pecans
- Chopped walnuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Raisins
- Diced apples
How to Make Air Fryer Monkey Bread (Recipe)
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Dough
Open the biscuit cans and cut each biscuit into four pieces.
Place the dough pieces into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Granulated sugar
- Cinnamon
Toss the biscuit pieces in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, stir together:
- Melted butter
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
Mix until combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Monkey Bread
Place the coated biscuit pieces into a lightly greased air fryer safe baking pan.
Spread them evenly throughout the pan.
Pour the butter mixture over the top, making sure it reaches all the dough pieces.
Step 5: Air Fry Until Golden Brown
Preheat the air fryer to 320°F.
Place the pan inside the basket and cook for 18 to 22 minutes.
The monkey bread is done when:
- The top is golden brown
- The center is cooked through
- The dough is no longer raw
If you’re new to baking in an air fryer, our guide on how to preheat an air fryer can help you get more consistent results.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the monkey bread to rest for about 5 minutes.
Carefully invert it onto a serving plate or enjoy it directly from the baking dish.
Easy Vanilla Glaze
For extra sweetness, add a simple glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients together.
- Adjust with additional milk if needed.
- Drizzle over warm monkey bread.
The glaze melts into the bread and adds another layer of sweetness.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Monkey Bread
A few simple tricks can help you achieve perfect results every time.
- Use a baking dish that fits your air fryer comfortably.
- Avoid packing dough too tightly.
- Check the center before removing.
- Let the bread cool slightly before serving.
- Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
The following nutrition values are estimated for 1 serving based on 8 servings total.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the brand of biscuit dough and any optional add-ins used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Why Is My Monkey Bread Doughy in the Middle?
The center may need additional cooking time.
If the top looks done but the center isn’t fully cooked, cover loosely with foil and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Why Is the Top Too Dark?
Air fryers can brown sugary toppings quickly.
Reducing the temperature slightly or using foil can prevent over-browning.
Why Is My Monkey Bread Dry?
Overcooking is usually the cause.
Check for doneness early since cooking times can vary between air fryer models.
If you frequently struggle with baking times, these guides on air fryer cooking time adjustments and tips for crispy air fryer results can help.
Flavor Variations to Try
Caramel Monkey Bread
Add caramel sauce between the dough layers before cooking.
Apple Cinnamon Monkey Bread
Mix diced apples into the coated dough pieces.
Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips throughout the layers.
Nutty Monkey Bread
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Can You Make Monkey Bread Without Canned Biscuits?
Yes.
Homemade dough can be used if you prefer making everything from scratch.
The process takes longer because the dough needs time to rise, but many people enjoy the richer homemade texture.
For a quick version, refrigerated biscuit dough remains the easiest option.
How to Store and Reheat Monkey Bread
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator
Store for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm portions in the air fryer at 300°F for 2 to 3 minutes.
The bread becomes soft and gooey again after reheating.
What to Serve With Monkey Bread
Monkey bread pairs well with:
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Fresh fruit
- Breakfast casseroles
- Yogurt parfaits
If you’re planning a sweet breakfast spread, browse more air fryer desserts you’ll make on repeat or explore our collection of easy air fryer desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature do you cook monkey bread at in an air fryer?
Most air fryer monkey bread recipes cook best at 320°F for about 18 to 22 minutes.
Can you cook Pillsbury biscuits in an air fryer?
Yes. Refrigerated biscuit dough cooks very well in an air fryer and is commonly used for monkey bread recipes.
Can monkey bread be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble it several hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Why is my monkey bread not fully cooked?
The center may need additional cooking time, especially when using a deep baking dish.
Can I freeze monkey bread?
Yes. Once cooled, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Are air fryers good for baking bread?
Yes. Air fryers work like compact convection ovens and can bake many breads and desserts successfully.
