in Dessert Recipes

Green Chili Monkey Bread

Green Chili Monkey Bread: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Get ready to spice up your baking routine with the tantalizing Green Chili Monkey Bread. This delightful twist on the classic monkey bread takes the concept of pull-apart bread to a whole new level, infusing each bite with the bold flavors of green chilies, cheese, and savory spices. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to bring joy and a kick of heat to your table. Join us on this culinary adventure as we delve into the art of creating this mouthwatering, shareable treat.

Ingredients

For the Monkey Bread Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, drained
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Monkey Bread Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Create a well in the center.
  3. Combine Ingredients:
    • Pour the yeast mixture and melted butter into the well. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough:
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Create the Filling:

  1. Preheat and Prep:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan.
  2. Roll Out the Dough:
    • Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle.
  3. Build the Layers:
    • Brush the dough with melted butter. Sprinkle diced green chilies, shredded pepper jack cheese, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt evenly.
  4. Cut and Stack:
    • Cut the dough into squares and stack them to form layers in the prepared bundt pan.
  5. Second Rise:
    • Cover the bundt pan and let the assembled bread rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection:
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.

Make the Dipping Sauce:

  1. Whisk Together:
    • In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
  2. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Allow the Green Chili Monkey Bread to cool slightly before serving. Serve it with the zesty dipping sauce on the side.

Cook Notes

  • Flavorful Filling:
    • Ensure even distribution of the filling ingredients for a burst of flavor in every bite.
  • Adjusting Spice Levels:
    • Tailor the spiciness to your preference by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper in the filling.
  • Dough Consistency:
    • The dough should be soft and elastic after kneading. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
  • Cheese Choices:
    • Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or monterey jack for diverse flavor profiles.

Variations

Bacon Bliss:

  • Incorporate crumbled bacon between the layers for an extra savory kick.

Jalapeño Joy:

  • Add sliced fresh jalapeños for a spicier and crunchier twist.

Herb Infusion:

  • Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of herbaceous freshness.

Keto Versions

Almond Flour Alchemy:

  • Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the dough for a keto-friendly alternative.

Cheese Choices:

  • Opt for high-fat, keto-friendly cheese options such as cream cheese or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.

Low-Carb Chilies:

  • Use fresh green chilies or canned green chilies without added sugars for a low-carb option.

Low-Carb Versions

Cauliflower Creations:

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with cauliflower flour for a low-carb dough.

Nutty Nuances:

  • Add finely chopped almonds or walnuts to the filling for added crunch and healthy fats.

Dairy-Free Delight:

  • Choose dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut milk for a low-carb and dairy-free version.

A Spicy Spectacle for the Senses

In conclusion, the Green Chili Monkey Bread isn’t just a recipe; it’s a spicy spectacle for the senses—a celebration of warmth, flavor, and communal joy. Whether you follow the traditional method, explore variations, embark on keto adaptations, or opt for a low-carb twist, this monkey bread invites you to savor the thrill of baking and sharing.

As the enticing aroma of chili-infused dough and melted cheese fills your kitchen, and the first pull-apart reveals layers of spicy goodness, relish the magic of creating a culinary masterpiece. The Green Chili Monkey Bread is more than a delicious treat; it’s an invitation to embrace bold flavors, experiment with textures, and enjoy the camaraderie of sharing a meal with loved ones.

So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on the journey of crafting this spicy delight. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to a meal, the Green Chili Monkey Bread is sure to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire. Embrace the joy of baking, indulge in the kick of green chilies, and let this monkey bread be a highlight at your table—because sometimes, a little spice is all you need to turn a meal into a fiesta!

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