Cranberry Raisin Monkey Bread(The Perfect Christmas Breakfast Recipe)

Cranberry raisin monkey bread is the ultimate holiday baking recipe, perfect for filling your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and cranberries. This festive bread recipe is easy to prepare and makes a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you're searching for cranberry desserts or a special treat for christmas breakfast, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.

This cranberry raisin monkey bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread that combines layers of dough with a flavorful cranberry sauce and raisins. The combination of tangy cranberries and sweet raisins makes it perfect for pairing with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it alongside savory dishes like a holiday ham or roast turkey for a delightful contrast of flavors.

What is Cranberry Raisin Monkey Bread?

Cranberry raisin monkey bread is a pull-apart bread that is as fun to eat as it is delicious. It’s made with biscuit dough rolled in cinnamon sugar, layered with a sweet and tart cranberry sauce, and baked to golden perfection.

This bread is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, festive brunches, or a cozy winter snack. You can pair it with other holiday treats like Instant Pot Flan de Calabaza (Pumpkin Flan) or Apple Tarts with Maple Whipped Cream.

Cranberry Raisin Monkey Bread Ingredients

The ingredients for cranberry raisin monkey bread are simple and easy to find, making this recipe accessible even if you’re new to baking. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the delicious layers of flavor in this sweet bread.

• Biscuits (2 16oz cans) – The base of the bread, providing a soft and fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon (1/8 cup) – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and cranberries.
• Sugar (1 cup) – Coats the biscuit dough, caramelizing during baking to create a sweet crust.
• Cranberry Sauce (½ cup) – Provides a tangy, fruity layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet dough.
• Raisins (¼ cup) – Adds bursts of sweetness and chewy texture throughout the bread.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons) – Helps to bind the sugar and cinnamon, creating a rich, buttery sauce that coats the dough.
• Cooking Spray – Used to grease the baking pan, ensuring the bread doesn’t stick.

Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

To elevate the flavor of your cranberry raisin monkey bread, a homemade cranberry sauce is key. This sauce adds a tangy, sweet contrast to the rich, cinnamon-sugar-coated dough, making each bite irresistible.

• Orange Juice (¾ cup, pulp-free) – Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
• Water (¼ cup) – Helps to create a smooth consistency in the sauce.
• Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the cranberries, balancing their natural tartness.
• Cinnamon (1/8 teaspoon) – Infuses the sauce with a warm, spicy note.
• Fresh Cranberries (12oz package) – The main ingredient, providing a tart, fruity base for the sauce.

This cranberry sauce can be made in advance, saving you time on baking day, and it’s perfect for adding a festive touch to other holiday desserts as well.

How to Make Cranberry Raisin Monkey Bread

Making cranberry raisin monkey bread is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create this delicious holiday treat:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a fluted baking pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar and 1/8 cup of cinnamon.
3. Separate the dough from the biscuit cans and cut each biscuit into quarters. Roll the pieces into small balls.
4. Coat each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then place a layer of coated dough balls into the greased baking pan.
5. Spread ¼ cup of cranberry sauce over the first layer of dough balls, followed by 1/8 cup of raisins.
6. Repeat the layering process with the remaining dough balls, cranberry sauce, and raisins.
7. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter and mix it with any remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. Pour this over the top of the dough.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
9. Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate.

Tips For Making Cranberry Raisin Monkey Bread

• Use cold biscuit dough to make it easier to handle and roll into balls.
• Layer evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of the bread; it should come out clean.
• Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works well in this recipe if you're short on time. Just make sure it's a thick, jellied sauce to prevent it from being too runny.

Can I prepare this monkey bread in advance?

You can prepare the dough balls and layer them in the pan the night before. Store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh the next morning.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftover monkey bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.

Have you tried this cranberry raisin monkey bread? Don’t forget to print or save the recipe card to make this delicious treat again! If you’ve made it, be sure to rate and review the recipe to let us know how it turned out. Enjoy!