Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever wandered through Dollywood and caught a whiff of that irresistible cinnamon-sweet aroma, you know there’s something magical about their famous cinnamon bread. This Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe captures all the warmth and flavor of that beloved treat in your own kitchen, delivering a soft, pull-apart bread bursting with cinnamon sugar goodness and topped with a smooth, sweet glaze. It’s the kind of comfort food that instantly feels like a cozy hug, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little joyful indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this delectable Dollywood Cinnamon Bread just right depends on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together harmoniously to create its signature flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the tender bread base to the sweet cinnamon sugar and that luscious glaze on top.

• 1 lb frozen bread dough, thawed: The foundation of the bread, making this recipe approachable while still delivering that soft, fluffy texture.
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly inside every slit of the bread.
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon: The spice that gives this bread its warm, comforting essence.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Divided to mix into the cinnamon blend and for optional extra sweetness on top.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Offers a deep molasses flavor and adds a beautiful caramelized crust after baking.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the creamy glaze that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
• 2–3 Tbsp milk: Needed to thin the powdered sugar into a smooth, drizzle-worthy icing.

How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan for Baking

Start by lightly spraying a loaf pan with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks, then line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Giving the parchment a light spray as well helps keep it firmly in place, so your bread bakes evenly and doesn’t cling to the sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Place the frozen bread dough into the prepared pan and let it thaw completely according to package instructions. This slow thaw (usually 4–7 hours) allows the dough to soften without rising too much before you’re ready to bake, setting the stage for that perfect pull-apart texture.

Step 3: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon

While the dough thaws, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with the tablespoon of cinnamon. This cinnamon-sugar mixture is the heart of the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe’s irresistible flavor, so mix it well and set it aside ready for coating the dough.

Step 4: Cut the Dough

Once thawed, carefully slice 5 to 6 horizontal slits across the top of the dough, about halfway through. These cuts create the signature pull-apart effect after baking and allow the cinnamon sugar and butter to penetrate every delicious layer.

Step 5: Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush the melted butter generously over the top and inside each slit, ensuring every crevice is coated. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over, making sure to get plenty inside the slits where the flavor can really seep in during baking.

Step 6: Top and Let Rise

Place the loaf pan in a warm spot and let the dough rise gently for about 30 minutes until slightly puffed. Once risen, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top, which will caramelize in the oven for that signature crispy, sweet crust.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the bread is perfectly puffed and coated.

Step 8: Bake

Slide the risen dough into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and baked through, with that crackly, caramelized layer from the brown sugar topping.

Step 9: Prepare the Icing

As the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl. Keep adjusting the milk to achieve a smooth, drizzle-worthy glaze—this finishing touch turns the bread from delightful to unforgettable.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

After baking, let the bread cool slightly before drizzling the icing generously over the warm loaf. Serve by pulling apart the bread, savoring the perfect blend of sweet, cinnamon-spiced layers with every bite.

How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of additional powdered sugar can add a snowy finish, or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts like pecans can add a delightful crunch and extra dimension to the flavors.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, creamy hot chocolate, or even a tangy fruit compote. It also makes an incredible accompaniment to breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve this bread on a wooden cutting board with extra cinnamon sticks and an overflowing small bowl of glaze for dipping. You could even slice it and toast lightly, then spread softened butter or cream cheese for a savory-sweet contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dollywood Cinnamon Bread keeps best when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain its softness and prevents it from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and cooled bread by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to one month and thaw beautifully overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm, gently reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at a low temperature until they are soft and the glaze is just slightly melty again. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I make this Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe with fresh dough?

Absolutely! Fresh bread dough will work just as well, though you’ll want to adjust the rising times slightly because fresh dough can rise faster than frozen dough that’s thawing.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free bread dough substitute and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. The texture may vary but the flavor will still shine.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts or raisins inside the dough before baking can add some fun textures and bursts of sweetness that complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully.

What’s the best way to get the perfect rise during baking?

Make sure your dough is thawed and allowed to rise properly in a warm, draft-free spot before baking. Also, avoid slicing the bread too deep or too shallow so it can expand evenly.

How thick should the icing be for this recipe?

The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape but still fluid enough to drizzle. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and add more a little at a time to get that perfect consistency for drizzling over the warm bread.

Final Thoughts

Making the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe at home is like bringing a slice of that joyful theme park magic right to your kitchen table. With its tender, pull-apart layers and sweet cinnamon-sugar crust, it’s a treat that’s guaranteed to brighten any morning or satisfy any sweet tooth craving. Give this recipe a try and watch the smiles form as friends and family dig into every delicious, buttery bite.

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