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There’s an undeniable thrill that comes from the kitchen when you embrace a bit of creativity and joy. I discovered this magical Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread on a lazy Sunday morning, determined to escape the mundane cycle of fast food. The kitchen filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and melted chocolate, whisking me back to childhood memories of baking with my family.

What I love most about this recipe is its delightful versatility; it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any snack craving that hits during the day! Using ready-made vegan croissant dough means you can whip it up easily, and the layers of chocolate and crunchy cornflakes create a delicious contrast that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy afternoon or impressing friends at a gathering, this recipe is a sure-fire way to bring smiles to any table. Grab your aprons and let’s dive into this delectable twist on a classic—and trust me, you won’t be able to resist grabbing just one more piece!

Why is Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread a must-try?

Deliciously Unique: This Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread is not your average dessert; the combination of warm, gooey chocolate with a crispy cornflake finish offers a flavor experience that will wow your taste buds.

Quick and Easy: With ready-made vegan croissant dough, you can create this indulgent treat in just over an hour, making it a fantastic option for when guests drop by unexpectedly.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, this sweet pull-apart bread invites sharing and interaction, bringing everyone together for a delightful snacking experience.

Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a show-stopping dessert, this recipe adapts wonderfully to any occasion.

Your kitchen will come alive with delightful aroma, making it hard to resist reaching for a second helping. Try pairing it with a warm cup of coffee for the perfect treat!

Essential Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread Ingredients

For the Dough
• 700 g ready-made dough for vegan croissants – This saves time and adds a delicious flakiness to your Monkey Bread.
• Vegan butter for greasing – Ensures your loaf doesn’t stick and adds richness to the flavor.
• Flour for dusting – Prevents sticking while rolling out your croissant dough.

For the Filling
• 200 g vegan chocolate – This creates gooey pockets of chocolate goodness.
• 200 g vegan chocolate spread – Adds an extra layer of melted chocolatey flavor with every pull.

For the Coating
• 5 tbsp brown sugar – Sweetens the dough and complements the spices beautifully.
• 2 tbsp cinnamon – Infuses warm spice notes that elevate the overall taste.
• 50 g vegan butter – Used for coating, it enhances each ball’s flavor and crispiness.

For the Crunch
• 50 g cornflakes – Provides that delightful crunch, making this Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread irresistible.

For the Drizzle
• 200 g vegan milk chocolate – Melting it for a drizzle adds a rich finish to your creation.
• 50 g cornflakes – Sprinkle these on top for an extra textural surprise!

With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating this mouthwatering Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread. Gather them up, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!

How to Make Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread

Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180 °C / 360 °F using convection heat. Grease a loaf pan generously with vegan butter and dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Prepare the dough: If your croissant dough is cold, allow it to come to room temperature. Once softened, roll it out and cut it into pre-marked triangles, halving them to create 24 lovely small triangles.
Chop chocolate: Take the vegan chocolate and break it into 24 small pieces. In a separate bowl, combine the rich brown sugar and fragrant cinnamon to mix well.
Fill dough triangles: In each croissant triangle, place about one teaspoon of vegan chocolate spread along with a chocolate piece in the center. Wrap the dough snugly around the filling to form a sealed ball, enclosing the deliciousness inside.
Coat the balls: Melt the vegan butter in a small bowl. Dip each croissant ball first into the melted butter and then roll them in the sugar-cinnamon mixture until they’re fully coated. Place the coated balls neatly into the prepared loaf pan.
Add crunch: Between the layers of the croissant balls, sprinkle some of the delightful cornflakes for an extra layer of texture. Repeat this process with the remaining dough pieces, adding more chocolate spread or sugar-cinnamon mix as needed.
Bake to perfection: Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake the Monkey Bread for about 25 minutes, until it turns a lovely golden brown and is cooked through.
Cool down: Once baked, allow the Monkey Bread to cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting it from the loaf pan. You may let it cool completely or garnishing it while still slightly warm adds an enticing touch.
Finish with chocolate: Roughly chop the vegan milk chocolate and gently melt it using a water bath. Drizzle half over the Monkey Bread, sprinkle with additional cornflakes, and then finish drizzling the remaining chocolate for that luscious finish.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time for busy weeknights! You can assemble the dough balls and layer them in the loaf pan up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This method keeps the croissant balls just as delicious and fluffy. If you’re feeling particularly organized, you can also prepare the chocolate drizzle a few days ahead and store it in the fridge; just warm it up slightly before finishing your masterpiece!

What to Serve with Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread?

Warm, sweet and chocolatey, this delicious treat deserves to be complemented with equally delightful side dishes.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bread. The brightness will enhance every bite you take!
Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream provides a decadent finish, balancing the warm, crunchy textures beautifully. It’s an indulgent treat that dusts off the ordinary.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a calming pairing, enhancing the sweet experience while providing a warm sip.
Chocolate Drizzle Latte: Infuse your coffee or nondairy milk with a hint of chocolate syrup. This sweet drink mirrors the flavors in the Monkey Bread, creating a perfect match.
Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: Drizzle some warm maple syrup on the side for a delightful dip that brings an extra layer of sweetness.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, coconut whipped cream can elevate your Monkey Bread into a decadent dessert, embodying a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth!

Treat yourself and your loved ones by pairing this delectable Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread with these delightful options!

Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread Variations

Get ready to elevate your Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread experience with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, alongside the chocolate for a lovely crunch and healthy fats.
Fruit Fusion: Toss in some diced apples or berries with the filling for a fruity surprise that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. The natural sweetness of the fruits will complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into your cinnamon-sugar blend for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness and adds a fun twist. Your guests will be intrigued by this unique flavor profile!
Maple Glaze: Swap the melted vegan chocolate drizzle with a maple syrup glaze to create a sweet, caramelized finish. This alternative adds a lovely, warm flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free croissant dough or biscuits for a delicious gluten-free version of this indulgent treat. Just ensure your ingredients are certified gluten-free to cater to your dietary needs!
Chocoholic’s Dream: For an extra chocolatey version, include chocolate chips or chunks into the croissant balls. You can never go wrong with more chocolate, right?
Additional Spices: Experiment with flavors by adding nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon sugar mix. These spices add a warm, aromatic quality that makes every bite enchanting.
Savory Sensation: For a savory twist, skip the chocolate and sugar altogether, and fill the dough with garlic, vegan cheese, and herbs for a unique dinner bread. The garlic aroma will make your kitchen feel inviting and warm!

Let your creativity soar with these variations and enjoy a different spin on the classic Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread every time!

Expert Tips for Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread

Use Room Temperature Dough: Let your croissant dough sit out to soften; this makes it easier to roll and shape without tearing.

Avoid Overfilling: When adding chocolate and spread, use just a teaspoon per triangle; too much filling can make the balls hard to seal.

Layer Wisely: Sprinkle cornflakes between layers not only for crunch but to maintain even baking—too many layers can lead to uneven cooking.

Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the bread while baking; it should be golden brown—if undercooked, it can soggy in the center instead of being a delightful Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread.

Cool Before Serving: Allow the Monkey Bread to cool slightly before lifting it from the pan—this helps keep its shape and prevents tearing.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Store any leftover Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its delightful texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Monkey Bread after cooling completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn, storing for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 180 °C / 360 °F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of dough should I use for the Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! I recommend using ready-made dough for vegan croissants as it’s specifically designed to be flaky and perfect for this recipe. This saves you time and helps create the soft, tender layers that make the Monkey Bread irresistible.

How should I store leftover Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread?
To keep your delicious Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend its lifespan, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat it in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful texture!

Can I freeze Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, after allowing the Monkey Bread to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 180 °C / 360 °F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

What if the dough tears while shaping the croissants?
Not to worry! If your dough tears, you can simply pinch it back together—it’s a little like magic! Just ensure to work with room temperature dough, as it’s more pliable. If it still causes issues, dust your working surface with a little more flour to prevent sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Great question! Since this Vegan Crunchy Monkey Bread contains chocolate (even though it’s vegan), it’s important to keep it away from pets, especially dogs, as chocolate can be toxic to them. Also, be mindful of any nut allergies, especially if using a vegan chocolate spread containing nuts. Always check packaging for potential allergens when preparing this treat for friends or family.