
Introduction to Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Introduction
When you think of sweet, indulgent treats, few can match the irresistible charm of Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread. This classic dish combines the warmth of freshly baked rolls, the sweetness of cinnamon sugar, and a delightfully gooey texture. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet, monkey bread made with Rhodes dinner rolls is the way to go.
The best part about this dish is its simplicity. Using Rhodes pre-made dinner rolls saves time while still delivering a homemade taste. The dough is frozen, and with a few ingredients like butter, cinnamon, and sugar, you can easily assemble and bake the bread. The result is a warm, sticky, and sweet pull-apart treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Rhodes dinner rolls monkey bread. From the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips on perfecting the recipe and answering some frequently asked questions, you’ll have everything you need to bake this delectable treat.
What Makes Rhodes Dinner Rolls the Best for Monkey Bread?
Rhodes Dinner Rolls are the key to making this monkey bread recipe a success. These rolls are soft and fluffy, ensuring a light texture. Their frozen dough rises beautifully when baked, making it the perfect base for monkey bread. The rolls absorb the cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating a rich, indulgent flavor.
The dough is easy to work with, and because it’s pre-made, you save a lot of time. Rhodes dinner rolls bake evenly, so you can be sure each piece of monkey bread will be perfectly soft and gooey. By skipping the time-consuming process of making dough from scratch, you can focus on assembling and baking the bread for a fresh, homemade treat.
The History of Monkey Bread
Monkey bread is a beloved dessert that has roots dating back to the 1950s. Its exact origins are unclear, but it’s believed to have been inspired by European pastries, especially those from Hungary and other Central European countries. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include various versions, from sweet cinnamon-flavored bread to savory garlic-infused varieties.
The name “monkey bread” likely comes from the way people pull apart pieces of the bread with their fingers. It mimics the way monkeys might grab food from a tree. Traditionally, the bread consists of dough broken into pieces, coated with cinnamon sugar, and baked in a bundt pan. The result is a sticky, pull-apart texture that has made monkey bread a popular treat for breakfast or dessert.
Why You Should Make Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Here are a few reasons why you should try making Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread:
- Quick and Easy: Since you use pre-made dough, you save time. You won’t have to knead or wait for dough to rise, and the preparation process is minimal.
- Customizable: While the traditional monkey bread is made with cinnamon sugar, you can easily add your own twist. Add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or even cream cheese can elevate the dish to your liking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or parties. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air will have everyone reaching for more.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough and cinnamon-sugar mixture in advance, making it easy to bake right before serving. This is perfect for busy days when you want to minimize time in the kitchen.
In the next section, we’ll discuss the ingredients you’ll need to make Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread and explain why each one contributes to the dish’s delicious outcome.

Ingredients for Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Introduction
Before you can enjoy the sweet, gooey goodness of Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease and simplicity. You don’t need to run to a specialty store or buy a bunch of fancy items. In fact, you probably already have many of these ingredients in your kitchen.
Let’s take a look at the essential components that make Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread so delicious.
The Key Ingredients for Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own batch of Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread:
- Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls: This is the star of the show. You’ll need about 16 rolls, depending on the size of your pan. These pre-made, frozen rolls save time while providing a soft, pillowy texture that’s perfect for monkey bread.
- Butter: A generous amount of butter is key to the rich, indulgent flavor of the bread. You’ll need to melt it before using it, allowing it to coat the rolls and create a golden, crispy exterior once baked.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for adding that warm, comforting flavor that defines monkey bread. It blends beautifully with the butter and sugar to create the signature taste of the dish.
- Sugar: White granulated sugar is the most common option, but you can also use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. The sugar will coat the rolls and caramelize in the oven, contributing to the sweetness of the final product.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract is optional, but it adds a layer of richness and complexity to the flavor. It pairs perfectly with cinnamon and sugar to elevate the overall taste of the bread.
- Nutmeg (optional): Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and spice to the bread. It’s not essential, but it can provide a unique twist to the classic monkey bread flavor profile.
- Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts, pecans, or almonds are great additions if you enjoy a bit of crunch. Nuts provide texture and complement the sweet, soft dough.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Each of these ingredients plays an important role in creating the perfect monkey bread:
- Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls: The convenience of using frozen dinner rolls eliminates the need to prepare dough from scratch. The rolls also rise beautifully, ensuring a light and fluffy texture that contrasts with the rich, sugary coating.
- Butter: The melted butter serves as a binder for the cinnamon sugar and helps the bread bake to a golden, crispy perfection. It also contributes to the bread’s soft interior, creating a delicious contrast between the outside and inside of each pull-apart piece.
- Cinnamon and Sugar: This sweet and spicy combination is what gives monkey bread its signature flavor. The sugar melts into the butter, creating a sweet glaze, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Together, they form a comforting and indulgent flavor that’s loved by many.
- Vanilla Extract and Nutmeg: These ingredients may not be strictly necessary, but they enhance the flavor. Vanilla adds sweetness and warmth, while nutmeg brings a touch of spice. These small additions create a more complex, layered taste that makes the bread stand out.
- Chopped Nuts: Nuts add texture and a slight savory balance to the sweet bread. They also bring a bit of crunch, making the bread even more satisfying. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit them.
Adjusting the Recipe for Different Dietary Preferences
While the traditional Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize it to fit your dietary preferences or restrictions. Here are a few ways to modify the recipe:
- Vegan Option: To make the recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and ensure that your dinner rolls are dairy-free. You can also use plant-based milk and replace the eggs with an egg substitute if needed.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for gluten-free frozen dinner rolls or make your own dough using gluten-free flour. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but the overall concept of the recipe remains the same.
- Lower Sugar Option: If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, you can use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener, in place of the regular sugar. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor and sweetness, so adjust to your taste preferences.
How to Customize Your Monkey Bread
In addition to the basic ingredients, there are several ways to customize your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread to make it your own:
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a decadent twist, fold in some chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar mixture. As the bread bakes, the chocolate will melt into the rolls, adding gooey sweetness.
- Cream Cheese: For a creamy, indulgent version of monkey bread, add dollops of cream cheese between the layers of dough. This will create pockets of creamy goodness throughout the bread.
- Fruit: If you want to add a fruity touch, consider incorporating diced apples, pears, or berries into the dough. The fruit will soften as the bread bakes, adding a fresh, natural sweetness to the dish.
- Caramel Sauce: For extra sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the monkey bread once it’s baked. The caramel will soak into the rolls, making the bread even more irresistible.
Conclusion
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert or breakfast treat. Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer it plain or loaded with chocolate, fruit, or cream cheese, this recipe is sure to impress.
Next, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of preparing and baking your very own batch of Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Introduction
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to assemble and bake your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread. This part of the process is simple and fun, and you’ll love the results. Each piece of bread is coated in a delicious blend of cinnamon sugar, and the bread bakes into a golden, gooey masterpiece. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying this irresistible treat in no time!
Step 1: Thaw the Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls
The first thing you need to do is allow the Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls to thaw. Since they are frozen, they need time to rise and soften. Place the frozen rolls in a greased bowl and cover them with a clean kitchen towel. Let them thaw for about 2-3 hours. The rolls will expand as they thaw, so make sure to give them enough space.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
While the rolls are thawing, you can prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture. In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
Stir the mixture well to ensure that the cinnamon and sugar are evenly distributed. This is the sweet coating that will give your monkey bread its irresistible flavor. Set the bowl aside until the next step.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Next, you’ll need to melt the butter. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter in the microwave or on the stove. Be sure to melt the butter gently, so it doesn’t burn. Once the butter is melted, allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Cut the Rolls into Smaller Pieces
Once the Rhodes dinner rolls have thawed, it’s time to cut them. Use a sharp knife to cut each roll into quarters. You should end up with small, bite-sized pieces of dough. These pieces will be coated in the cinnamon sugar mixture and stacked in the baking pan.
Step 5: Coat the Roll Pieces with Cinnamon Sugar
Now comes the fun part: coating the dough pieces in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Take each piece of dough and dip it into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll the buttered dough in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure each piece is generously coated.
As you coat the pieces, layer them in the bottom of a greased bundt pan or a round baking dish. Be sure to stack the pieces evenly, filling the pan with several layers. You can also add optional ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
Step 6: Let the Dough Rise
Once all the dough pieces are coated and stacked in the pan, cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise for about 1-2 hours. The rolls will puff up and fill the pan, so be patient during this step. You’ll know the dough is ready when it has doubled in size and is soft to the touch.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature while the dough finishes rising, so everything bakes evenly.
Step 8: Bake the Monkey Bread
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to bake your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to ensure the top doesn’t burn. If the top gets too brown, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil for the final few minutes of baking.
The monkey bread should bake evenly, and the cinnamon sugar will form a golden, crispy crust. The inside will remain soft and gooey, with the layers pulling apart effortlessly.
Step 9: Make the Glaze (Optional)
While your monkey bread is baking, you can prepare an optional glaze to drizzle over the top once it’s done. To make the glaze, melt an additional 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan. Stir in 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
Once your monkey bread is done baking, drizzle the warm glaze over the top for an extra layer of sweetness. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious touch that will make your monkey bread even more indulgent.
Step 10: Let the Monkey Bread Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the monkey bread to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the caramelized sugar time to firm up slightly, making it easier to remove the bread from the pan.
Once cooled, carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate or platter. The monkey bread should slide out easily, revealing the perfectly baked, gooey rolls. Serve the bread warm and let everyone pull apart their own pieces. This treat is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but it will still be delicious the next day.
Tips for the Perfect Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
To ensure your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use a Bundt Pan: A bundt pan is ideal for making monkey bread because it helps the dough bake evenly and creates a beautiful shape. If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can also use a round cake pan or a square baking dish.
- Don’t Overfill the Pan: Be careful not to overfill your pan with dough. Leave a little room for the rolls to expand as they rise. Overfilling the pan can cause the dough to overflow during baking.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients. Try adding a handful of raisins, chocolate chips, or even cream cheese between the layers for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
- Check for Doneness: The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread should come out clean. If the bread is not fully cooked in the center, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Conclusion
Baking Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is a simple and rewarding experience. From the ease of thawing the rolls to the sweet, gooey finish, this recipe guarantees a delicious result every time. The cinnamon sugar coating, soft dough, and optional glaze make each bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a holiday breakfast, or a weekend treat, this monkey bread is sure to become a favorite.

Serving and Storing Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Introduction
After baking, your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, holiday breakfast, or as an afternoon snack, this treat is sure to be a hit. The best part is, it’s so easy to prepare, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences. In this section, we’ll discuss the best ways to serve your monkey bread, as well as how to store any leftovers.
Serving Your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread
Monkey bread is a fun, interactive dessert or snack that’s perfect for sharing. Here’s how to serve it:
- Serve Warm for the Best Experience
Monkey bread is best served warm. The gooey cinnamon sugar filling and soft, buttery rolls are at their most indulgent when fresh out of the oven. Allow the bread to cool for just 10 minutes before inverting the pan onto a plate. This gives the caramelized sugar time to firm up, making it easier to serve. - Use a Platter or Cake Stand
After inverting the pan, place the monkey bread on a large platter or cake stand. This allows everyone to gather around and pull apart the sweet, cinnamon-scented rolls. It’s a great treat for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even casual afternoon tea. - Accompany with Coffee or Milk
Pair your Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. The rich sweetness of the bread complements the bitterness of coffee, while the milk helps balance the flavors. - Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream or Ice Cream
For an extra indulgent treat, serve the monkey bread with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey bread. - Serve as a Breakfast Dish
If you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch, you can add a side of fresh fruit or a fruit compote. The sweetness of the fruit complements the rich, cinnamon rolls, and it adds a burst of freshness to the meal. - Creative Garnishes
You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a decorative finish or drizzle extra icing or caramel sauce for a sweet twist. Garnishes make the dish look extra special when serving guests.
Storing Leftover Monkey Bread
While Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers and enjoy them later. Here’s how to store and reheat your monkey bread:
- Storing at Room Temperature
If you have leftover monkey bread, you can store it at room temperature for up to two days. Place the bread in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The rolls will remain soft, and the cinnamon sugar filling will stay gooey. However, the bread will lose some of its crispy texture as it sits.- Refrigerating Leftovers
If you want to keep the monkey bread for a longer period, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge. Before serving, reheat it gently in the microwave or in the oven.- Freezing for Future Use
For even longer storage, you can freeze leftover Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread. After baking and cooling, wrap the monkey bread in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw at room temperature, then reheat it in the oven for the best texture.- Reheating Tips
To reheat your leftover monkey bread, you can use the oven, microwave, or air fryer:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the monkey bread on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: For quick reheating, place a slice of monkey bread on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 20-30 seconds, or until warm. The bread may lose some of its crispy texture when microwaved.
- Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, you can reheat monkey bread in it to restore some of its crispiness. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes, checking periodically.
- How to Refresh the Icing
If the icing or glaze has hardened during storage, you can refresh it by adding a splash of milk or cream and reheating it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Stir it until smooth, then drizzle it over the warm monkey bread.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about making Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is that it’s highly customizable. You can experiment with different flavor combinations, toppings, and fillings to make the recipe your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Nutty Monkey Bread
Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds between the layers of dough for a delightful crunch. You can also sprinkle some nuts on top of the monkey bread before baking. - Chocolate Monkey Bread
If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars to the layers of dough. The melting chocolate will add an indulgent richness to the bread. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking for a decadent treat. - Fruit-Filled Monkey Bread
For a fruity twist, try adding fresh berries, apples, or bananas between the layers of dough. A touch of lemon zest can brighten the flavor of the fruit, and a sprinkle of cinnamon will enhance the sweetness. - Savory Monkey Bread
While this recipe is sweet, you can easily make a savory version by replacing the cinnamon sugar mixture with garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. You can also add cooked sausage or bacon crumbles to the layers for a hearty, savory bread. - Glazed Monkey Bread
You can make the glaze even more decadent by adding flavored extracts like vanilla, maple, or hazelnut. A splash of coffee or orange juice can also add an interesting twist to the glaze. - Caramelized Monkey Bread
Instead of butter, you can use brown sugar and butter to create a caramelized version of monkey bread. The sugar will melt and form a rich caramel layer around the dough, making the bread even sweeter.
Conclusion
Whether you’re enjoying it with family and friends or indulging in a personal treat, Rhodes Dinner Rolls Monkey Bread is a simple yet indulgent dessert or snack. Its gooey, sweet layers make it the perfect choice for any occasion. You can customize the recipe to your liking, and leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for future enjoyment. From serving to storing, these tips will help you make the most of your monkey bread experience!