If you’ve ever strolled through the magical gates of Dollywood, you know the sweet, spicy aroma of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is simply irresistible. This beloved treat is a warm, pull-apart loaf bursting with cinnamon sugar in every bite, finished with a dreamy vanilla glaze that begs to be drizzled generously. It’s a recipe that brings theme park nostalgia right into your own kitchen and makes for the ultimate cozy baking project whether you’re sharing with family or keeping it all to yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is its simplicity—every ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the pillowy bread dough to the sparkly cinnamon sugar and silky glaze, each element transforms an ordinary loaf into something truly special.
- Frozen bread dough (thawed): This shortcut guarantees a soft, fluffy loaf without fussing over yeast—just let it come to room temperature before rolling.
- Granulated sugar: The sweetness here caramelizes a bit as the bread bakes, giving that signature crust.
- Ground cinnamon: No skimping! This spice is the soul of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread, infusing every layer with warmth.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Butter adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar really stick to the dough for those gooey pockets everyone loves.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for the luscious glaze that soaks into the warm bread.
- Milk: A splash or two turns your glaze silky smooth—use whole milk for extra creaminess.
- Vanilla extract: Just a hint deepens the sweetness and rounds out the glaze with cozy flavor.
How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little butter or nonstick spray. Make sure your frozen bread dough is fully thawed and soft, so it’s easy to roll out and shape.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir so every grain is evenly spiced—this mixture is the heart of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread and what gives the loaf its irresistible swirl.
Step 3: Roll and Slice the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 16×8 inches. Don’t stress about perfection—the main goal is an even thickness. With a sharp knife or dough cutter, make 4 to 5 deep slits across the width, being careful not to cut all the way through. These slits help the bread pull apart beautifully after baking.
Step 4: Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Layer
Generously brush the entire surface of the dough with melted butter, making sure to get into the slits. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough, pressing it gently so it clings to all the nooks and crannies. This step is what makes every bite of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread so decadent.
Step 5: Fold and Arrange in the Pan
Carefully lift and fold the dough, accordion-style, so the layers stack up and fit nicely into your prepared loaf pan. If you have any leftover butter or cinnamon sugar, brush and sprinkle it over the top of the loaf for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the bread is puffed, golden, and your kitchen smells like a cinnamon-scented dream. If you’re using homemade dough, let it rise in the pan for a bit before baking for even better texture.
Step 7: Glaze While Warm
While the bread cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a thick, pourable glaze. Drizzle it over the warm loaf, letting it seep into the crevices. This final touch is what makes Dollywood Cinnamon Bread truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
Garnishes
For a classic touch, serve your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with a generous drizzle of vanilla glaze, but don’t stop there—try adding a dusting of extra cinnamon or a handful of toasted pecans for crunch. A sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving gives it a bakery-fresh look and irresistible sweetness.
Side Dishes
This bread is perfect with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea, balancing the sweetness with a touch of bitterness. If you’re serving brunch, pair slices with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent spread that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread into thick fingers and serve them as dippable sticks alongside bowls of glaze or cream cheese frosting. If you’re making it for a crowd, bake the dough in a round pan and pull apart at the table—a guaranteed showstopper for gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap the cooled Dollywood Cinnamon Bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh and soft at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for four days—just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This bread freezes like a dream! Wrap slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then refresh with a quick warm-up in the oven or microwave.
Reheating
To recreate that fresh-baked magic, pop a slice of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm the whole loaf in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. The glaze will melt into the bread, making it taste just like it came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use homemade bread dough instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade dough gives a slightly chewier, richer texture. Just let it rise a bit in the loaf pan before baking so it gets nice and fluffy, just like the original Dollywood Cinnamon Bread.
What if I don’t have a loaf pan?
No worries—you can use a round cake pan or even shape the dough into individual rolls. The key is to keep the layers stacked so the cinnamon sugar melts into every fold.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute plant-based butter for the melted butter and use your favorite non-dairy milk in the glaze. The result is still delicious and just as indulgent.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The loaf should be golden brown and sound slightly hollow when tapped. You can also insert a skewer or knife into the center—if it comes out clean (except for gooey cinnamon sugar), it’s ready!
Can I make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread ahead for a brunch party?
Definitely! Bake the bread the night before and store it tightly wrapped. Reheat just before serving and drizzle with fresh glaze for a warm, bakery-style treat your guests will love.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably special about pulling apart a warm loaf of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread, watching the glaze melt into every cinnamon-laced crevice. I hope you give this recipe a try and bring a little theme park magic to your own table—trust me, one bite and you’ll see why it’s such a beloved favorite!
Print
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, pull-apart bread inspired by the famous treat from Dollywood theme park. This bread features a buttery cinnamon sugar filling layered within soft, fluffy dough and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed (or homemade white bread dough)
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to create the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Roll Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the thawed dough into a 16×8-inch rectangle, ensuring an even thickness for consistent baking.
- Slice Dough: Using a knife or dough cutter, make 4 to 5 deep slits widthwise across the dough without cutting all the way through to maintain the loaf’s structure.
- Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush the melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the dough, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, pressing it gently into the dough for better adhesion and flavor infusion.
- Fold Dough: Carefully fold the dough in an accordion style, folding along the slits to create layers that will pull apart after baking. Place the folded dough into the prepared loaf pan.
- Top Dough: Brush any remaining melted butter on top of the dough and sprinkle with any leftover cinnamon sugar for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and fully cooked inside.
- Prepare Glaze: While the bread cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make a smooth vanilla glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm bread before slicing and serving to enhance the sweetness and add moisture.
Notes
- For best results with homemade dough, allow it to rise slightly in the loaf pan before baking to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Serve the bread warm to capture the authentic Dollywood experience with melty butter and soft layers.
- Leftover bread can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to restore softness and warmth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
