Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe

If you’ve ever wandered through Dollywood and caught a whiff of that irresistible aroma drifting from the bakery, you understand the magic of their cinnamon bread. The Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe captures that exact mouthwatering experience right in your own kitchen. Soft, buttery bread slathered with cinnamon sugar, baked to a golden perfection, and topped with a luscious icing drizzle makes this a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little comfort on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a part — from the tender bread dough to the warm cinnamon sugar, and the sweet icing that ties it all together.

• 1 lb frozen bread dough, thawed: The soft foundation for this bread, easy to work with and perfect for pull-apart softness.
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
• 1 Tbsp cinnamon: Provides that signature warm, spicy depth that cinnamon bread is known for.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Half of it blends with cinnamon for coating, the rest adds extra sweetness as desired.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, sprinkled on top: Adds a caramelized sweetness and lovely color after baking.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for a smooth, sweet icing that finishes the bread perfectly.
• 2–3 Tbsp milk: To thin out the powdered sugar and create a creamy icing drape.

How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan for Baking

Start by lightly spraying a loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking. Give the parchment a quick spray too, so the dough won’t cling to it — this little step makes all the difference when you’re ready to lift that beautiful loaf out.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Place the frozen bread dough into the prepared pan and let it thaw according to the package instructions, usually between 4 and 7 hours. It should be fully softened but not yet risen, so it’s pliable and ready for the next steps.

Step 3: Mix Sugar and Cinnamon

Combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a shallow dish. This cinnamon-sugar mixture is the heart of the flavor, giving every bite a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Step 4: Cut the Dough

Using a sharp knife, make 5 to 6 horizontal slits across the top of the dough, only halfway through. These cuts allow the bread to pull apart easily after baking and give the cinnamon sugar a chance to settle deep inside those grooves for bursts of flavor.

Step 5: Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush the melted butter generously all over the dough’s surface and inside each slit. Then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it, making sure some falls inside the cuts. This step ensures every pull-apart piece is filled with that incredible cinnamon sweetness.

Step 6: Top and Let Rise

Place the pan in a warm spot and let the dough rise gently for about 30 minutes until it puffs slightly. Once risen, sprinkle the 1/4 cup of brown sugar evenly on top. This sugar will melt and caramelize during baking, adding a gorgeous crunch and rich sweetness.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Having the oven ready at the right temperature ensures the bread bakes evenly and develops a delicious golden crust.

Step 8: Bake

Pop the risen loaf into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s baked through and beautifully golden on top. The smell alone will have you eagerly waiting for the next step!

Step 9: Prepare the Icing

While the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk to get your perfect icing consistency — drizzled just right to coat and complement the cinnamon bread.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool just a bit so the icing doesn’t melt completely, then drizzle it generously over the warm bread. Serve by pulling apart sections to enjoy a sweet, shareable delight that feels just like visiting Dollywood itself.

How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add a little something extra, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top just before baking for a crunchy contrast. A dash of powdered sugar dust after icing can add a pretty finishing touch that dazzles the eyes and the palate.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of cream cheese or butter on the side. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a steaming cup of coffee or tea to round out the sweet and cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try turning this cinnamon bread into a decadent dessert by serving warm slices with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a brunch spread, place the loaf on a rustic board surrounded by miniature jam jars and fresh berries — it becomes the star of any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it soft and fresh for easy snacking the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled bread whole or in slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months frozen without losing that comforting flavor.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked softness, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for short bursts. If freezing, thaw the bread overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its moisture and texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread dough instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh bread dough works just as well. Just adjust the rising times accordingly, as fresh dough may rise faster than thawed frozen dough.

Is there a substitute for powdered sugar in the icing?

Powdered sugar is key for a smooth, lump-free icing, but you can substitute with a finely ground sugar or make a glaze using honey or maple syrup thinned with a bit of milk, though texture and sweetness will differ.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

You can bake this cinnamon bread in a round cake pan or square baking dish lined with parchment, though the baking time may vary slightly depending on depth and shape.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the dough?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts or raisins before baking gives wonderful texture and extra flavor bursts. Just sprinkle them over the dough after buttering and before adding cinnamon sugar.

How sweet is this cinnamon bread?

This bread strikes a lovely balance — sweet from the cinnamon sugar and icing, but not overpowering. You can always reduce sugar amounts if you prefer a milder sweetness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Cinnamon Sugar and Icing Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of easy comfort and show-stopping flavor that transforms any moment into a celebration. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a warm, pull-apart treat that feels like a hug from the Smoky Mountains themselves. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen favorite too!

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