Description
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread made from thawed frozen bread dough coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a smooth powdered sugar icing. This easy-to-make recipe yields a warm, shareable treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread
- 1 lb frozen bread dough, thawed
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (use 1/4 cup for the mixture, remainder optional for sprinkling)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, for sprinkling on top
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 Tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan for Baking: Lightly spray a loaf pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. Spray the inside of the parchment as well to prevent sticking and to help keep it in place.
- Prepare the Dough: Place the frozen bread dough loaf in the parchment-lined pan and thaw according to the package instructions (typically 4–7 hours), until fully softened but not yet risen.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a shallow dish, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar coating. Set aside.
- Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife, make 5–6 horizontal slits across the top of the dough about halfway through its depth. This allows the bread to pull apart easily after baking.
- Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Generously brush the melted butter over the top of the dough and into the slits. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, making sure to get some inside the slits for maximum flavor.
- Top and Let Rise: Place the loaf pan in a warm area to let the dough rise for 30 minutes, or until it is slightly puffed. After rising, sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar evenly over the top of the dough.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
- Bake: Place the risen loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is cooked through and the top turns a golden brown color.
- Prepare the Icing: While the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2–3 tablespoons milk in a small bowl until smooth, adjusting milk to achieve your preferred icing consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm bread. Serve by pulling apart pieces of the cinnamon bread for a sweet, shareable treat.
Notes
- Thaw the frozen bread dough fully but do not let it rise before applying the cinnamon-sugar coating and letting it rise after.
- Use parchment paper and cooking spray to prevent sticking and make removing the bread easy.
- Adjust the amount of milk in the icing to get either a thicker glaze or a thinner drizzle, depending on preference.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to add more cinnamon to the sugar mixture.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
