Introduction

Slow cooker recipes have gained tremendous popularity for their convenience and delicious outcomes. One delightful treat you can prepare effortlessly is slow cooker monkey bread with cranberries. This dish combines the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar with tart cranberries for a delightful breakfast or dessert option. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family brunches, this recipe will surely impress your guests.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 2 cans of refrigerator biscuits (16.3 oz each)
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup of butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Prep Time

The preparation for this delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes. This includes cutting the biscuit dough into pieces, measuring the ingredients, and mixing everything together.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the monkey bread is approximately 2 to 3 hours on low heat in the slow cooker. Altogether, including prep time, the total time comes to about 2 hours and 15 minutes. This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. Enjoy the warm, gooey deliciousness of this slow cooker monkey bread!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing together a package of refrigerated biscuit dough. Open the can and cut the biscuits into quarters.

Mix with Cranberries

In a bowl, combine the biscuit pieces with a generous amount of dried cranberries. Ensure the biscuit pieces are evenly coated with cranberries.

Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. This mixture will be used to coat the biscuits.

Coat the Biscuit Pieces

Take the biscuit and cranberry mixture and toss it in the sugar and cinnamon mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.

Layer in the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Layer the coated biscuit pieces in the slow cooker.

Add the Butter

Melt a stick of butter and drizzle it over the biscuit and cranberry layers in the slow cooker.

Cook the Monkey Bread

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Check for Doneness

The monkey bread is done when it is golden brown and cooked through in the center. You can test it with a toothpick for doneness.

Serve Warm

Once cooked, carefully remove the monkey bread from the slow cooker. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving it warm.

Notes

Alternative Fruits

Feel free to substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits like raisins or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a day or two, or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the monkey bread with a side of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.

Cooking Time Adjustments

Cooking times may vary depending on the slow cooker model; adjust accordingly and check for doneness regularly.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

The slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking, perfect for infusing flavors and achieving a tender texture in your monkey bread with cranberries.

Layering Ingredients

Properly layering your dough pieces and cranberries ensures even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish.

Using Non-Stick Spray

Applying non-stick spray to the slow cooker before adding the ingredients helps prevent the monkey bread from sticking and makes for easier serving.

Temperature Control

Understanding your slow cooker’s temperature settings is crucial for determining cooking time and ensuring your monkey bread is baked perfectly.

Checking for Doneness

Insert a toothpick into the center of your monkey bread; it should come out clean when the bread is fully cooked.

Letting it Rest

Allowing the monkey bread to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps it set and makes it easier to remove from the slow cooker.

FAQ

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cranberries with other fruits like blueberries or chopped apples to create your preferred flavor.

How can I make my monkey bread sweeter?

You can increase the amount of sugar in the dough or add a sweet glaze on top after cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. Just set the slow cooker in the morning.

What kind of dough should I use?

Using refrigerated biscuit dough is recommended for convenience, but you can also make homemade dough if you prefer.

Can I add nuts to my monkey bread?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts can add great texture and flavor; simply mix them in with the dough or layer them in.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Monkey Bread with Cranberries is a delightful and easy dessert that brings a unique twist to a classic favorite. The combination of tender biscuit pieces and tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy family nights. Its simplicity and deliciousness are sure to impress anyone who tries it.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Cinnamon Sugar Monkey Bread

Try making a classic version of monkey bread by rolling biscuit pieces in cinnamon sugar for a timeless treat that everyone loves.

Chocolate Chip Monkey Bread

Add chocolate chips into the mix for a sweet and indulgent variation that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.

Apple Pie Monkey Bread

Incorporate diced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon to give this monkey bread a warm, autumnal flavor reminiscent of apple pie.

Banana Nut Monkey Bread

Combine ripe bananas and chopped nuts for a delicious breakfast option that brings the flavors of banana bread into a fun, pull-apart dessert.

Berry Bliss Monkey Bread

Use a mix of fresh or frozen berries instead of cranberries for a fruity explosion that’s perfect for summer gatherings.