Dollywood Cinnamon Bread: A Cozy and Flavorful Treat

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven, especially when that bread is infused with cinnamon and sugar. Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of visitors for years, becoming a beloved staple of the theme park’s offerings. Recently, I decided to bring that delightful experience into my own kitchen, and I must say, my family couldn’t have been happier. The sweet, sticky aroma filled our home as the loaf baked, and the moment it came out of the oven, we gathered around to enjoy this warm, gooey treat. Whether you’re planning a cozy breakfast or a comforting dessert, this Dollywood cinnamon bread recipe is sure to delight everyone in your household.

Ingredients

• For the Cinnamon Sugar:
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for sprinkling on top)
• For the Bread:
• 1 pound frozen bread dough, thawed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For the Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• Equipment:
• Loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Start by spraying a loaf pan lightly with cooking spray. Then, line the pan with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. Lightly spray the inside of the parchment paper as well to prevent sticking.

Thaw the Dough

Place your frozen bread dough loaf in the parchment-covered loaf pan. Thaw according to the package instructions, usually taking about 4-7 hours. You can also leave it overnight in the refrigerator for a slow thaw.

Mix Cinnamon Sugar

In a shallow dish, combine the 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Cut Slits in Dough

Once the dough is thawed, slice 5-6 horizontal slits across the top of the dough. Each slit should be about 1/2 the depth of the dough, allowing the bread to pull apart easily after baking.

Coat with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Melt the unsalted butter and generously brush it on the top and inside the slits of the bread dough. After that, liberally sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered areas, ensuring an even coating inside the slits.

Let Rise

Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm location. Allow the dough to rise for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice it will puff up nicely, creating that soft, fluffy texture we all love.

Bake

After the dough has risen, sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Make Glaze

While the bread is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk until you achieve your desired consistency.

Glaze and Serve

Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. For the best experience, serve the cinnamon bread warm, and enjoy the gooey goodness with your family and friends!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus thawing time)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour (not including thawing)

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the bread warm right out of the oven for the best texture.
• With Coffee: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
• With Ice Cream: Try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• For Breakfast: Slice it thick and serve with butter and jam.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it as a cozy snack at any time of the day.

Additional Tips

1. Perfect Thawing: Thaw your bread dough overnight in the refrigerator for best results, or on the counter for a quicker option.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the glaze to suit your taste.
3. Add Nuts: For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling.
4. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, like almond or vanilla, to add more depth to the flavor.
5. Storage: Keep any leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet twist.
• Apple Cinnamon Bread: Incorporate small chunks of apple into the dough for a fruity version.
• Nutty Cinnamon Bread: Mix in chopped nuts with the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch Gatherings: Perfect for brunch with friends, paired with fresh fruit and coffee.
• Holiday Treats: An excellent addition to your holiday dessert table or gift it to neighbors.
• Family Gatherings: Serve during family gatherings or casual get-togethers for a cozy atmosphere.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cinnamon bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It should last up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it up in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftover cinnamon bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh bread dough instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh bread dough. Just follow the same instructions for preparation and baking.
2. How do I know when the bread is done?
   The bread should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before and bake it the next day.
4. Is there a gluten-free version?
   You can use gluten-free bread dough if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative.
5. How can I make it more festive?
   Add holiday spices like nutmeg or cloves for a more festive flavor.
6. What can I substitute for brown sugar?
   You can use coconut sugar or a mix of white sugar and molasses as a substitute.
7. Can I add more cinnamon?
   Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the cinnamon to your taste preference.
8. What type of bread dough should I use?
   Any frozen bread dough will work, but traditional white or whole wheat is recommended.
9. Is it necessary to use the glaze?
   While the glaze adds sweetness and presentation, you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet bread.
10. Can I use other fillings?
    Yes! Feel free to get creative with fillings like cream cheese or fruit preserves.

Conclusion

Making Dollywood cinnamon bread at home is not just about baking; it’s about creating cherished moments with your family and friends. The warm, comforting flavors will transport you to a cozy cabin in the Smoky Mountains, where every bite is a delightful reminder of simpler times. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this recipe will surely become a staple in your household. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and experience the joy of baking this delicious treat. Enjoy every sweet, gooey bite!

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