Bali-Style Monkey Bread Biscuits: A Sweet and Fun Snack for Kids
Living in Bali with kids and searching for a sweet, fun snack idea? These Bali-Style Monkey Bread Biscuits are a perfect treat!
Using locally available ingredients like bananas, coconut sugar, and cinnamon, this recipe is easy to make and incredibly delicious.
The pull-apart nature of monkey bread makes it a fun activity for children and a delightful snack for the whole family.
Whether it’s for a weekend treat, a party snack, or an after-school indulgence, these tropical-inspired biscuits will bring smiles all around.
Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to local Balinese ingredients in a fun and tasty way.
Table of Contents
What are Monkey Bread Biscuits?
Monkey bread biscuits are a pull-apart pastry made of small dough pieces coated in a sweet mixture, baked until golden brown, and drizzled with a glaze.
Traditionally, they are made with cinnamon, sugar, and butter. In this Bali-inspired version, we incorporate local ingredients like coconut sugar, bananas, and coconut oil to create a tropical twist on a classic favorite.
Kids will love tearing off pieces and savoring the sticky, sweet, and gooey goodness! This recipe is perfect for little hands to help prepare and enjoy the fun process of making monkey bread.
Bali-Style Inspiration
This Bali-style recipe adds a tropical touch:
Bananas: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a hint of tropical flavor.
Coconut Sugar: A healthier alternative to white sugar with a rich caramel flavor.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice that complements the bananas perfectly.
Coconut Oil: A fragrant, healthier substitute for butter that’s widely available in Bali.
Desiccated Coconut: For a fun texture, tropical flair, and a subtle crunch.
These ingredients are not only easy to find in Bali’s markets, but they also provide a fun way for kids to learn about and appreciate local flavors.
Ingredients for 4 Kids
Biscuits or bread dough: 2 cups (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Banana: 1 large (mashed)
Coconut sugar: ½ cup
Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Coconut oil: 3 tablespoons (melted)
Desiccated coconut: 2 tablespoons (for sprinkling)
Honey: 2 tablespoons (optional, for extra sweetness)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Steps to Prepare
Prepare the Dough
Start with biscuit or bread dough, either store-bought or homemade. Cut the dough into 1-inch pieces using a sharp knife or scissors.
If you’re making it with kids, let them roll each piece into small, smooth balls – a fun and engaging activity for little hands! Set the dough balls aside on a clean surface or a baking tray.
Make the Sweet Coating
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of coconut sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the sugar and spice are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, mash one ripe banana until smooth, then mix it with 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional).
This banana mixture will act as the glue for the coconut sugar coating.
Coat the Dough
Dip each dough ball into the banana mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Next, roll the coated dough ball in the coconut sugar and cinnamon mixture, pressing gently to ensure the sugar sticks to the surface.
Repeat this process for all the dough balls. The kids will especially enjoy this sticky, hands-on step!
Assemble the Monkey Bread
Grease a baking pan or bundt pan with coconut oil to prevent sticking. Begin layering the coated dough balls in the pan, placing them evenly to create a cohesive shape.
Sprinkle a little desiccated coconut between each layer for added texture and a tropical flair. Continue layering until all the dough balls are used.
Bake the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled monkey bread in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Check the monkey bread around the 20-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake. The goal is a soft, gooey texture with a slightly crispy top.
Add the Finishing Touch
Once baked, remove the monkey bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey over the top for extra sweetness, and sprinkle more desiccated coconut for a finishing touch.
Carefully transfer the monkey bread to a serving plate. Monkey bread is best served warm for maximum gooeyness and flavor. Encourage kids to pull apart the pieces and enjoy the sticky, sweet treat.
This snack is perfect for sharing, making it a hit at family gatherings, parties, or simply as an indulgent weekend treat.
Tips for Perfect Monkey Bread Biscuits
Use Ripe Bananas: They provide the best natural sweetness and flavor.
Don’t Overbake: Bake until golden to keep the texture soft and gooey.
Add Extra Toppings: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel, or chopped nuts for variety.
Serve Warm: Monkey bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm for maximum gooeyness.
Get Kids Involved: Let kids help with rolling and coating the dough pieces – it’s a fun way to engage them in the kitchen!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 220
Fat: 11g (7g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular sugar instead of coconut sugar?
A: Yes, but coconut sugar gives a richer caramel flavor and is a healthier option
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving for best results
Q: Can I add chocolate chips?
A: Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips makes this treat even more indulgent
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free dough for a gluten-free version
Q: Can I freeze monkey bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Defrost and reheat before serving.
