Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole

Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole is a lighter twist on the classic cinnamon-sugar treat, made with a protein-packed dough using thick Greek yogurt. Soft, fluffy, and full of warm spice, this pull-apart monkey bread is perfect for a cozy brunch, weekend breakfast, or afternoon coffee break. It delivers comfort and indulgence, with a healthier, protein-rich boost and a naturally sweet glaze.

Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier indulgence: All the comfort of monkey bread, made lighter with Greek yogurt and less fat.

  • Protein boost: Each serving delivers nearly 4 grams of protein thanks to the yogurt-based dough.

  • No yeast required: The baking powder dough comes together quickly—no rise time needed.

  • Warm and spiced: Classic cinnamon-sugar flavor makes it an irresistible comfort food.

  • Easy to make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a beautiful result every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough:

  • all-purpose flour

  • baking powder

  • salt

  • thick Greek yogurt (5% recommended)

Coating:

  • brown sugar

  • cinnamon

Drizzle:

  • leftover cinnamon-sugar coating

  • maple syrup

Glaze:

  • Greek yogurt

  • maple syrup

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and spray with oil.

  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

  3. Add Greek yogurt and mix with a spatula. Once thick, switch to using oiled hands (coconut oil works well) and knead into a sticky dough.

  4. Divide the dough into 18–20 equal pieces and roll each into a small ball.

  5. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll each ball in the mixture until fully coated.

  6. Place coated balls into the prepared baking dish, pressing gently so they touch.

  7. Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the leftover cinnamon mixture, stir, and drizzle over the dough balls.

  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

  9. While baking, mix Greek yogurt and maple syrup to make the glaze.

  10. Let the bread cool for 5–10 minutes, then drizzle with glaze and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 balls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

  • Add-ins: Mix in chopped nuts, raisins, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

  • Make it vegan: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and plant-based sweetener.

  • Use whole wheat flour: Swap some all-purpose flour for whole wheat to add fiber and a nuttier taste.

  • Try other spices: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon coating for more depth.

  • Savory version: Omit sugar and cinnamon, and add herbs and cheese to create a savory pull-apart bread.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 10–15 seconds.
Add glaze just before serving if storing ahead, as the dairy-based glaze is best fresh.
Not recommended for freezing once glazed, but unglazed bread can be frozen for up to 1 month.

FAQs

Can I use non-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, but 5% thick yogurt provides the best texture and flavor. Non-fat may result in a slightly drier dough.

Do I need a mixer or dough hook?

No, this dough is mixed entirely by hand. Just be sure to oil your hands to prevent sticking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, bake the bread and store unglazed. Add the glaze just before serving for best taste and texture.

What kind of maple syrup should I use?

Pure maple syrup is best, but honey or agave syrup can also be substituted.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely—kids love the sweet cinnamon flavor and soft, doughy texture.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan like traditional monkey bread?

Yes, though baking time may vary slightly. Be sure to grease the pan well.

Is this monkey bread sweet enough without glaze?

Yes, the cinnamon-sugar coating adds plenty of sweetness, but the glaze gives it a soft, creamy finish.

What can I serve this with?

Perfect with coffee, tea, or a brunch spread of fruit, eggs, and yogurt.

How do I keep the dough from sticking?

Oil your hands before rolling and shaping the dough—this makes handling much easier.

Can I use flavored yogurt?

Plain Greek yogurt is best. Flavored yogurts may add unwanted sweetness or change the dough texture.

Conclusion

Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole is a lighter, wholesome twist on a classic pull-apart treat. Warm, spiced, and gooey with a maple-yogurt glaze, it’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping things a bit more balanced. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want something comforting with your coffee, this recipe is a simple and delicious choice.

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Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole

Greek Yogurt Monkey Bread Casserole

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  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 20 balls
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulgent cinnamon-sugar monkey bread with a protein boost from tangy Greek yogurt. This healthier version delivers all the comfort you crave—soft, fluffy dough balls coated in cinnamon sweetness and topped with a creamy glaze. Perfect for brunch or pairing with your morning coffee.


Ingredients

  • Dough:
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 3/4 cups thick Greek yogurt (5%)
  • Coating:
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • Drizzle:
  • Leftover coating mixture
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • Glaze:
  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9”x9” baking dish with parchment paper and spray with oil.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add Greek yogurt and mix with a spatula until it becomes thick. Switch to using your oiled hands to knead until a sticky dough ball forms.
  4. Divide dough into 18–20 small balls using oiled hands and roll into shape.
  5. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
  6. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
  7. Place the balls in the baking dish, gently pressing them so they touch.
  8. Mix leftover cinnamon-sugar coating with 1 tbsp maple syrup and drizzle over the dough balls.
  9. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
  10. While baking, prepare the glaze by mixing Greek yogurt and maple syrup in a small bowl.
  11. Let the monkey bread cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle with glaze just before serving.
  12. Best served warm. If storing, add glaze just before eating.

Notes

  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt for best results and texture.
  • Coconut oil works well for oiling your hands and the pan.
  • Serve warm for the softest, gooey texture and best flavor.
  • Add glaze just before serving if storing, to keep it fresh.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball (2 oz)
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 4.1g
  • Sodium: 169mg
  • Fat: 0.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0.7g
  • Protein: 3.9g
  • Cholesterol: 1mg

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