Pizza Monkey Bread Recipe

Step by Step Method

Step 1

To make the monkey bread: line a baking sheet with parchment paper and then sprinkle the paper with flour. Roll each dough ball into a 10 x 6 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface and then transfer it both to the baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand for 15 minutes.

Step 2

In a bowl microwave the pepperoni for 60-90 seconds. Transfer pepperoni to paper lined plate, reserving the pepperoni oil in a bowl (about 1 tablespoon).

Step 3

Stir the olive oil into the pepperoni oil. Brush a 12-cup bundt pan with 2 teaspoons of the oil mixture. In a bowl mix together the Parmesan and oregano.

Step 4

Working with one dough rectangle at a time on the floured surface, roll into an 18 x 9 inch rectangle. Starting 2 inches from the long edge, place half of the pepperoni parallel to the long edge. Lay 4 mozzarella sticks on top of the pepperoni. Sprinkle with half of the Parmesan mixture next to the mozzarella. Fold the bottom 2-inch section over the filling and roll tightly toward the opposite edge. Pinch seam and ends to seal. Repeat with remaining dough, pepperoni and 4 mozzarella sticks, and the Parmesan mixture.

Step 5

Cut each log in half and pinch open ends to seal; cut in half again pinching open ends closed and then cut each log into thirds and pinch each end closed. Place a single layer of stuffed dough balls (6) 1/2 inch apart on the prepared pan and brush tops and sides with 1/4 of the oil mixture. Layer the remaining dough balls in the pan, brushing the tops and sides with the remaining oil mixture. Cover with plastic and let rise for 30 minutes or until puffed.

Step 6

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 7

To make the tomato sauce: in a saucepan over medium heat heat the oil and then add the garlic and cook for about a minute or so. Stir in tomatoes, oregano, salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 8

Bake bread for 40 minutes or until browned; transfer to a wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 9

Place serving dish on top of pan and invert. Let cool for 10 minutes.

Step 10

Reheat the sauce and transfer it to a serving bowl. Serve monkey bread with the sauce.

Step 11

*To make ahead* Monkey bread can be assembled, covered with plastic wrap, and referred for up to 24 hours. Let sit on the counter for 20 minutes before baking increasing cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes.