There’s a delightful thrill to pulling a warm, gooey bread apart, especially when it’s brimming with spicy jalapeños and crispy bacon. Enter my Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread, a dish that effortlessly transforms casual gatherings into unforgettable experiences. Picture this: the kitchen fills with the intoxicating aroma of melting cheese, while every cheesy, buttery bite bursts with flavor that dances on your palate.
I created this recipe during a fun afternoon spent experimenting with leftover ingredients, and I found the perfect way to marry two favorites: savory jalapeño poppers and soft, pull-apart bread. Whether you’re hosting game night or simply craving a comforting snack, this dish is straightforward to whip up and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, once you offer your family and friends a taste, they’ll want to enjoy this warm, delectable bread again and again! Get ready to indulge in the irresistible charm of this easy crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread
- This Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps that even novice cooks can follow.
- The explosion of flavors from the spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese makes each bite utterly delightful.
- Its versatility shines as it’s perfect for game nights, gatherings, or as a comforting snack any time of the day.
- Visually, this dish is impressive with its golden brown, pull-apart pieces that make for a stunning presentation at any table.
Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread Ingredients
Get ready to dive into a flavor-packed adventure with these simple ingredients!
For the Filling
• Jalapeño peppers – add spice to the monkey bread’s flavor profile.
• Cooked bacon – provides a crispy, savory touch that complements the jalapeños.
• Small red onion – enhances the filling with a mild sweetness.
• Jarlsberg cheese – offers a creamy, nutty flavor that melts beautifully.
• Good-quality mayonnaise – binds the filling together while adding richness.
For the Bread
• Cans of Grands biscuits – the foundation of the monkey bread, creating that delightful pull-apart texture.
• Butter – melts over the top for added richness and a golden finish.
With these perfect ingredients, your Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread will be an unforgettable hit!
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your bundt pan well is essential to ensure that the monkey bread comes out easily after baking.
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Mix together the chopped jalapeños, crispy bacon, red onion, grated Jarlsberg cheese, and good-quality mayonnaise in a large bowl until everything is evenly combined and coated with that creamy goodness.
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Toss in the biscuit quarters gently with the jalapeño mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. This step will ensure a burst of flavor in every pull-apart bite.
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Layer the coated biscuit pieces in the greased bundt pan, but don’t pack them too tightly! Pour the melted butter evenly over the top to create a gorgeous, golden crust.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the monkey bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on that irresistible aroma!
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Cool it in the pan for 10 minutes. This allows the monkey bread to firm up before you invert it onto a plate.
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Serve warm and enjoy pulling apart each cheesy, spicy, buttery bite with family and friends; they’ll love you for it!
Optional: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for added flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread?
Enhance your mealtime experience by pairing this cheesy delight with complementary dishes that elevate every bite.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, gooey bread, balancing rich flavors perfectly.
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Spicy Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip with a hint of lime is the ideal accompaniment, adding a cool, zesty twist that complements the spicy jalapeños.
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Seasoned Potato Wedges: Crispy, oven-baked wedges seasoned with herbs and spices bring a satisfying crunch that harmonizes beautifully with each cheesy pull.
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BBQ Sauce for Dipping: A touch of smoky sweetness adds depth and flavor, creating an indulgent treat that makes each bite even more irresistible.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy, crunchy slaw can cut through the richness of the monkey bread, making for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
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Fizzy Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a hint of citrus pairs wonderfully, cleansing the palate between the savory bites of monkey bread.
These delightful combinations will transform your Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread into a meal to remember!
How to Store and Freeze Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread
Room Temperature:: Allow the monkey bread to cool completely before covering it with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge:: For longer freshness, store the Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Freezer:: If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the unbaked monkey bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating:: To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread bites are perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the hassle! You can prepare the filling—jalapeños, bacon, onion, cheese, and mayonnaise—up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the biscuit pieces can be coated with the filling and layered in the bundt pan ahead of time, ready to be drizzled with melted butter before baking. If stored properly, it will still taste just as delightful. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread with minimal effort on busy days!
Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds! Each twist will add a new layer of deliciousness.
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Cheese Variations: Swap Jarlsberg for cheddar or pepper jack for an extra cheesy and zesty flavor boost. The gooeyness level will soar!
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Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or crispy pancetta for a lighter option or for a fun flavor contrast. Each will infuse your bread with a distinct taste.
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Vegan Style: Substitute mayonnaise with plant-based mayo and exchange biscuits for vegan-friendly options. Enjoy the same beloved flavors without the dairy!
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Spice Levels: Want it hotter? Add diced habanero peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for a fiery kick that elevates the heat level beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or chives into the filling for a delightful freshness. The herbs will dance harmoniously with the cheesy goodness!
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Nutty Touch: Toss in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a rustic flair. The nutty flavor enhances the overall depth of this dish.
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Vegetable Medley: Enhance nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling. The colorful mix not only looks good but also brings a burst of flavor.
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Sweet & Spicy Kick: For a unique twist, consider incorporating some diced peaches or sweet corn. This sweet contrast pairs beautifully with the spicy jalapeños.
Let your imagination run wild, and watch how these variations make beyond delightful, jaw-dropping creations!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread, be sure to chop the jalapeños finely to control the heat level and distribute flavor evenly.
- Mixing the filling ingredients thoroughly will ensure every biscuit piece is perfectly coated and packed with flavor.
- For the best texture, layer the biscuit pieces loosely in the bundt pan to allow them to rise and create that delightful pull-apart effect.
- Always check your oven for accuracy, as baking times can vary, and adjust the temperature if needed to achieve that golden brown color.
Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe jalapeños?
When choosing jalapeños, look for firm peppers that are bright green in color, without dark spots or wrinkles. Ideally, they should feel heavy for their size, indicating that they are fresh and packed with flavor. The skin should be shiny, which indicates freshness. If you prefer more heat, look for slightly smaller, thinner-skinned jalapeños.
How should I store leftover Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread?
Store your leftover monkey bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing; this prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. When ready to enjoy, reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds until warm.
Can I freeze Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my monkey bread isn’t baking evenly?
If your monkey bread isn’t cooking evenly, it might be because the pieces are too tightly packed in the bundt pan. Ensure that you layer the biscuit pieces loosely so they have room to rise. Additionally, check to see if your oven is properly calibrated; sometimes, an oven thermometer can help you make sure you’re baking at the temperature you think you are.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute regular biscuit dough with a gluten-free version that you like. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the mayonnaise and cheese, are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful flavors of Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread without the gluten.
Is this monkey bread pet-friendly?
While Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread is a delightful treat for humans, it’s important to remember that some ingredients could be harmful to pets. Onions, for example, can be toxic to dogs. It’s best to keep this dish away from your furry friends and stick with pet-safe snacks for them instead.
Jalapeño Popper Monkey Bread
Ingredients
- 4 medium Jalapeño peppers chopped
- 6 strips Cooked bacon crispy, chopped
- 1 small red onion chopped
- 2 cups Jarlsberg cheese grated
- 1/2 cup Good-quality mayonnaise
- 3 cans Grands biscuits quarter each
- 1/2 cup Butter melted
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your bundt pan well.
- Mix the chopped jalapeños, crispy bacon, red onion, grated Jarlsberg cheese, and mayonnaise in a large bowl.
- Toss the biscuit quarters gently with the jalapeño mixture until evenly coated.
- Layer the coated biscuit pieces in the greased bundt pan and pour the melted butter over the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate.
- Serve warm and enjoy pulling apart each cheesy, spicy, buttery bite.
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