Name: Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (divided); 1/3 cup maple syrup; 4 tablespoons raspberry preserves (divided); 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tubes (17.5 oz each) Pillsbury Buttermilk biscuits ((10 biscuits per tube)); 18 oz cream cheese (softened slightly)

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds—sweet, fluffy biscuit dough and creamy cheesecake filling—look no further. This Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread is the perfect fusion of flavors and textures. Imagine pulling apart warm, gooey biscuits filled with a luscious raspberry cream cheese mixture, all drizzled with a maple syrup glaze. It’s the kind of treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds, and it’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving something sweet, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why it will make a regular appearance at your gatherings:

Quick to prepare: With only a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time.
Impressive presentation: Pull-apart bread always looks stunning on a dessert table.
Customizable: You can swap out the raspberry preserves for your favorite fruit, or even mix in chocolate chips!
Perfect for sharing: This is a fun dessert that encourages everyone to dig in together.

The Ingredient Lineup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
1/3 cup maple syrup
4 tablespoons raspberry preserves, divided
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tubes (17.5 oz each) Pillsbury Buttermilk biscuits (10 biscuits per tube)
18 oz package cream cheese, softened slightly

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Oven-safe bundt pan: This will give your monkey bread its iconic shape.
Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients easily.
Spatula: Great for mixing and spreading the cream cheese mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
Cooling rack: To allow your monkey bread to cool properly before serving.

How to Prepare Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread

Creating this delightful Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread involves a few straightforward steps. Just follow along!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your monkey bread will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Almonds

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the sliced almonds and toast them lightly until golden, stirring frequently. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining 6 tablespoons of melted butter, maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of raspberry preserves. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

Open the tubes of Pillsbury Buttermilk biscuits and cut each biscuit into quarters. Place the biscuit pieces into a large mixing bowl.

Step 5: Combine Sugar and Cinnamon

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the biscuit pieces in the bowl and toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the remaining 2 tablespoons of raspberry preserves until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture into the biscuit pieces, making sure to distribute it evenly.

Step 7: Assemble the Monkey Bread

In your bundt pan, sprinkle half of the toasted almonds at the bottom. Layer half of the biscuit pieces on top of the almonds, followed by a drizzle of the glaze. Repeat with the remaining biscuit pieces and glaze, finishing with the remaining almonds on top.

Step 8: Bake

Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuits are cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bundt pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter and let it fall out. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top and serve warm.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you’re looking to adapt this Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread for dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps:

Gluten-free biscuits: Use your favorite gluten-free biscuit dough for a gluten-free version.
Dairy-free cream cheese: Opt for a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make it dairy-free.
Nut-free: Omit the almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Low-sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the dough and glaze to reduce the sugar content.

Insider Tips

For extra flavor, add vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.
Don’t skip toasting the almonds; it enhances their flavor significantly.
If you prefer a stronger raspberry flavor, feel free to increase the amount of raspberry preserves.
Letting the monkey bread cool slightly before serving makes it easier to pull apart.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you’re planning to serve this Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread for a special occasion, you can prepare it a day in advance:

Assemble the monkey bread up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. This allows for even baking and a fluffier texture.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my monkey bread too doughy inside?

Your monkey bread may need a little more baking time. Check it at the 30-minute mark, and if the toothpick comes out with dough, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Can I use frozen biscuits instead of refrigerated ones?

Yes, but you’ll want to thaw them before cutting them into quarters. Frozen biscuits will not bake evenly if they’re still frozen.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Can I freeze monkey bread?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked monkey bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reader Favorites

Time to Try It

Now that you have the recipe for this mouthwatering Raspberry Cheesecake Monkey Bread, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare for a delightful experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.

With each pull apart, you’ll reveal the sweet, creamy raspberry filling, making it a memorable treat for any occasion. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!