Introduction
Are you in search of the perfect vegan appetizer or snack that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious? Look no further than Vegan Mozzarella Stuffed Pesto Pizza Monkey Bread! This savory pull-apart bread combines soft, homemade dough, herby vegan pesto, and gooey plant-based mozzarella cheese in an irresistibly fun and shareable format.
Inspired by classic monkey bread, traditionally a sweet treat, this savory twist delivers big on flavor. Each bite-sized piece is coated in rich pesto and stuffed with cheesy goodness, making it ideal for gatherings, game days, or even a cozy evening at home. It’s completely plant-based, proving that indulgence and vegan cuisine can go hand-in-hand.
Why is this recipe a game-changer? Not only is it simple to prepare with everyday ingredients, but it’s also endlessly customizable. From the dough to the filling, you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time, giving you more freedom to enjoy your event.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful vegan masterpiece!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (not too hot, about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Vegan Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- ¼ cup walnuts or pine nuts (choose based on your preference)
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (shredded or cut into cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan)
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy crust)
Optional for Serving:
- Marinara sauce
- Balsamic glaze
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes frothy—this is a sign that your yeast is active.
- Add the olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Vegan Pesto
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, nutritional yeast, walnuts (or pine nuts), garlic, and salt.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegan Mozzarella
- If you’re using block-style vegan mozzarella, cut it into small cubes, about ½-inch each. If you’re using shredded mozzarella, keep it ready to fill the dough balls.
Step 4: Shape and Stuff the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide the dough into small, golf-ball-sized portions.
- Flatten each piece into a small circle. Place a piece of vegan mozzarella in the center, then pinch the edges of the dough together to seal it. Roll into a ball.
- Repeat the process until all the dough pieces are stuffed.
Step 5: Assemble the Monkey Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a bundt pan or deep baking dish with olive oil.
- Dip each dough ball into the prepared vegan pesto, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Arrange the pesto-coated balls in layers in the greased pan.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted vegan butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and nutritional yeast. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the dough balls for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Monkey Bread
- Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the monkey bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve the monkey bread warm with marinara sauce or balsamic glaze for dipping. The pull-apart texture ensures that everyone gets their fair share of cheesy, pesto-coated goodness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10 people
- Preparation Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
Variations
One of the best parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some exciting variations to try:
- Herbed Delight: Replace basil in the pesto with spinach, kale, or arugula for a unique flavor twist.
- Cheese Explosion: Mix vegan cheddar with mozzarella for a richer, multi-flavor cheese filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Sweet Version: Swap the pesto with vegan butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar to create a dessert monkey bread.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 20–30 seconds until warm.
- Air Fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for a crispier texture.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough, let it rise, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the monkey bread.
2. Can I freeze the pesto?
Absolutely. Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before use.
3. Is there a substitute for nuts in the pesto?
Yes! Swap out the nuts for sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds for a nut-free alternative.
4. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Of course! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saving option.
5. What type of vegan mozzarella works best?
Brands like Violife, Miyoko’s, or Daiya offer excellent vegan mozzarella options that melt beautifully.
6. How do I ensure my dough rises properly?
Make sure the water used to activate the yeast is warm (about 110°F) and allow the dough to rise in a draft-free, warm environment.
7. What other dips pair well with this monkey bread?
Try vegan ranch dressing, a creamy tahini sauce, or even roasted red pepper hummus for variety.
8. Can I make this in a loaf pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, a loaf pan or any deep baking dish will work. The presentation may differ, but the taste will be just as delicious.
9. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan generously with olive oil or vegan butter before adding the dough balls.
10. What other seasonings can I add to the butter drizzle?
Experiment with smoked paprika, rosemary, or lemon zest to add a unique touch to the topping.
Conclusion
The Vegan Mozzarella Stuffed Pesto Pizza Monkey Bread is a dish that truly has it all—flavor, fun, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating your family to a special snack, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe delivers a comforting yet elevated experience.
From the fragrant homemade dough to the melty vegan cheese and flavorful pesto, every element works in harmony to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. Plus, its pull-apart design makes it perfect for sharing, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this plant-based delight.
Customize it with your favorite ingredients, experiment with variations, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something so deliciously unique. Don’t forget to serve it warm and pair it with your favorite dipping sauce. Your guests (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking! 🌱