Monkie Cake
A sweet and cinnamon-spiced cake featuring layers of biscuits, raisins, and nuts, baked to golden perfection—perfect for family gatherings or comforting dessert indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cinnamon and sugar in a plastic bag.
- Cut biscuits into quarters and shake in cinnamon mixture.
- Layer in a tube pan, one can at a time, sprinkling raisins and nuts over each layer.
- Bring to a boil 1 1/4 sticks margarine and leftover cinnamon and sugar.
- Pour the hot margarine mixture over the layered biscuits.
- Bake at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Use a solid bottom tube pan for baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped apples or bananas to the biscuit layers for extra flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Using butter instead of margarine can enhance the richness of the cake. Ensure the biscuits are cut evenly for uniform cooking; a sharp knife or kitchen scissors works best.
Serving Suggestions
Monkie Cake is best served warm, drizzled with a little honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or with a side of Pineapple-Lemon Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Monkie Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until heated through without losing moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monkie Cake contains roughly 1469 calories, with 17g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1040mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen biscuits instead of canned?
Yes, frozen biscuits can be used, but ensure they are thawed and slightly softened before cutting. This will help them coat better in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and layer evenly in the pan. Adjust the baking time if necessary, as frozen biscuits may require a few extra minutes to cook through.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor or use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. If you're looking for a vegan option, consider using a plant-based butter or applesauce to maintain moisture without the fat.
Can I add other ingredients to the layers?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the layers between the biscuits. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds interesting textures. Just be mindful of the additional sweetness if you’re adding sweet ingredients like chocolate or dried fruit.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).