Description

A wholesome twist on a classic treat, this Healthy Sourdough Discard Monkey Bread is naturally sweetened, gut-friendly, and perfect for sharing. Made with whole grains, coconut sugar, and the tangy depth of sourdough discard, it’s a delicious way to use up discard while enjoying a soft, caramelized pull-apart bread.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose or whole wheat flour
1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
1/3 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil), melted
1 egg
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons instant yeast

For the Coating:

1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
1/2 cup coconut sugar or maple sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine sourdough discard, warm milk, melted butter, egg, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well. Add flour, salt, and instant yeast, kneading until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms (about 5–7 minutes). Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough Balls: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 1-inch pieces (about 30–40 pieces total). Roll each piece into a small ball.
Coat the Dough Balls: In a small bowl, mix coconut sugar and cinnamon. Dip each dough ball into melted butter, then roll in the sugar mixture. Arrange them in a greased bundt pan or baking dish.
Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Glaze and Serve: If using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm monkey bread before serving.

Notes

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of dairy milk.
Refined Sugar-Free: Stick to coconut sugar or maple syrup.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers for crunch.
Spiced Version: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the coating for extra warmth.
Caramel Drizzle: Swap the glaze for a homemade date or coconut caramel.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
rise time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: sourdough discard recipe, healthy monkey bread, pull-apart bread, naturally sweetened bread, easy sourdough dessert