If you’re craving a sweet treat that instantly transports you to the warm, inviting atmosphere of a charming theme park, the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe is your perfect ticket. This pull-apart cinnamon bread is everything you love about soft, buttery dough mingled with generous swirls of cinnamon sugar, topped with a luscious glaze that adds a velvety finish. It’s simple, comforting, and irresistibly delicious—making it a go-to for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a cozy, nostalgic bite. Once you make this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to perfecting the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe. Each element plays a vital role, from the soft bread dough that forms the base to the cinnamon sugar that brings that signature sweet-spicy kick. The glaze ties it all together with a silky sweetness that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Frozen bread dough (1 loaf, thawed): The foundation of your bread, providing that soft, fluffy texture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cinnamon layer and caramelizes slightly when baked.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Adds warm spice that’s essential to the classic cinnamon bread flavor.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Brushed generously to keep the dough moist and add richness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For the glaze, lending a sweet, smooth finish.
- Milk (2–3 tablespoons): Adjusts glaze consistency to drizzle-worthy smoothness.
- Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances the glaze’s flavor with a subtle, comforting aroma.
How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll your thawed bread dough into a neat rectangle about 16 inches by 8 inches. This creates just the right canvas for folding in that irresistible cinnamon sugar flavor.
Step 2: Make the Cuts
Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut deep slashes about an inch apart down both long edges of the dough. Be sure not to cut all the way through—these slits will beautifully spread the cinnamon sugar and create the iconic pull-apart effect once baked.
Step 3: Add Cinnamon Sugar and Butter
Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Next, brush the melted butter all over the dough, making sure it seeps into every cut and corner. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix generously across the entire dough and inside those slits for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Fold and Rise
Loosely fold the dough and transfer it gently into your loaf pan. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 to 45 minutes until it puffs up beautifully. This step ensures your bread comes out light and tender.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes until it turns a gorgeous golden brown and is fully cooked inside. After removing it from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the bread set, making it easier to slice and enjoy.
Step 6: Make and Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The glaze should be thick enough to coat but still drizzles easily. Pour it generously over the warm bread and watch it glisten before serving.
How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic glaze truly shines on this bread, you can sprinkle additional toppings like chopped pecans, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a little powdered sugar dusting for extra charm and crunch. These touches elevate the presentation and texture while keeping the heart of the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe intact.
Side Dishes
Pair this alluring cinnamon bread with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot chocolate for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack. It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness with a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cinnamon bread warm in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin. You could also slice it into smaller pull-apart pieces and arrange them on a wooden board for a shareable brunch centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in. Drizzle extra glaze tableside for that wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices keep well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This preserves the softness and flavor, so you can enjoy the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe even the next day without losing any of its deliciousness.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in foil and place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature overnight for best results, ensuring the bread remains tender and fresh.
Reheating
To bring the bread back to life, warm slices in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This quick reheat melts the glaze slightly and revives the soft, buttery texture, making every bite taste fresh and magical.
FAQs
Can I use homemade bread dough for the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Using homemade sweet yeast dough can add even more richness and flavor to your bread. Just ensure the dough is well risen and soft before rolling it out for the best results.
Is this cinnamon bread suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s very beginner-friendly. The recipe uses simple techniques like rolling, slicing, and folding, making it a great introduction to baking breads with exciting textures and flavors.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to tuck in chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins with the cinnamon sugar filling. These additions bring delightful textures and bursts of flavor to the classic Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe.
How long does it take to make this bread from start to finish?
The entire process, including rising and baking time, takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Most of that time is hands-off while letting the dough rise and the bread bake to golden perfection.
What is the best way to slice and serve this bread?
Because of the pull-apart design, it’s best to serve this bread warm and let everyone gently pull the pieces apart. This not only looks inviting but keeps the bread soft and scrumptious with every bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about making and sharing the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe. Its blend of soft dough, warm cinnamon sugar, and sweet glaze creates moments of joy with every pull-apart piece. Whether it’s for a special breakfast, a cozy afternoon treat, or a sweet finish to your day, this recipe invites you to bring a little bit of Dollywood magic into your own kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try—and get ready for plenty of happy smiles around the table!
