Imagine digging into a warm pan of gooey, cheesy bites that smell like a classic pizza the moment they come out of the oven and that is exactly what this Pizza Monkey Bread delivers.
I love making this on movie nights, game days, or whenever we want something fun and casual that feels like a treat without a complicated dinner spread.
SaveIt is one of those recipes that always sparks laughter and smiles at the table because everyone gets their own little pocket of cheesy goodness to pull apart and savor.
Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Dough
Topping
Instructions
- Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough begins to come together.
- Knead and rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 25 to 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven and prepare pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 inch round baking pan or a 13 by 9 inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Shape dough balls
Turn the risen dough onto a clean surface, divide it into 12 to 16 small pieces, and roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Make the pizza butter
In a bowl, combine melted butter, pizza sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Coat and layer
Dip each dough ball into the pizza butter mixture, letting any excess drip off, then place them in the prepared pan in a single layer. Pour any remaining sauce over the top.
- Add cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough balls, then finish with the Parmesan cheese.
- Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve
Let the monkey bread rest in the pan for about 5 minutes, then gently loosen the edges and serve warm.
Substitutions and variations
- Use instant yeast instead of active dry and skip blooming it in water with sugar.
- Swap pizza sauce for marinara or tomato basil pasta sauce for a similar flavor.
- Use gluten free flour blend in place of all purpose flour for a gluten free version.
- Replace mozzarella with cheddar or a cheddar mozzarella mix if you prefer a sharper taste.
Chloe's tips
- Let the dough rise in a turned off oven with the light on for a steady warm environment.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of onion powder to the dough.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a richer, stretchier pull.
- If you like it saucier, serve extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
How to store it
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to refresh the crust and cheese.
- You can refrigerate the assembled but unbaked monkey bread for up to 24 hours and bake when ready.
Serving suggestions
Serve this pizza monkey bread straight from the pan for the best gooey experience.
- Place the pan in the center of the table and let everyone pull off their own pieces
- Pair with a simple side salad and garlic knots for a full pizza party spread
- Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color before serving
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this in a muffin tin instead?
Yes, you can place a dough ball in each muffin cup, top with sauce and cheese, and bake at 375°F for 18 to 20 minutes.
How do I keep the dough balls from sticking together?
Make sure the dough pieces are fully coated in butter sauce and leave a little space between them in the pan.
Can I freeze the dough balls before baking?
You can freeze the shaped dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and continue with coating and baking.
Is it okay to use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture and heartier flavor.
Let's get cooking!
This Pizza Monkey Bread is such a fun and easy way to bring the taste of pizza to snack time, and it is sure to become a go to recipe for your next gathering or cozy night in.
