Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

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If you’ve ever wandered through the heart of Dollywood, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar drifting from the Grist Mill is unforgettable. This scent isn’t just a pleasant part of the theme park experience; it beckons visitors to one of the South’s most beloved treats: Dollywood Cinnamon Bread. Even if you haven’t set foot in Pigeon Forge, this buttery, pull-apart cinnamon loaf is legendary among lovers of classic comfort food.

Bringing this treat home is not only possible—it’s easier than you might expect. This recipe stays true to the original’s spirit, blending convenience and old-fashioned flavor. You don’t need to be a baking expert or have unusual ingredients. The method uses accessible frozen bread dough and a few pantry staples, making it perfect for both weekend projects and special occasions.

Let’s dive into the details so you can recreate the signature Dollywood Cinnamon Bread from scratch.

What Makes Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Special?

Dollywood Cinnamon Bread stands out for its pillowy-soft texture, golden-brown crust, and addictive cinnamon sugar coating. Unlike ordinary sweet breads, this loaf relies on a simple pull-apart method, creating deep ridges that catch the cinnamon coating. Each bite gives a mix of warm spice, crisp edges, and tender interior.

Rather than a complicated dough, the recipe leans on high-quality frozen bread dough. This shortcut is true to the original, ensuring consistent results. The finishing touch is a sweet, smooth glaze that drips into every nook.

Key features of this bread:
– Pull-apart structure with swirl or scored dough
– Thick coating of cinnamon sugar inside and out
– A buttery base for rich flavor
– Simple, smooth glaze for a sweet finish

Ingredients Breakdown

You likely have most of these essentials in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread

• Frozen bread dough (1 pound loaf)
  Acts as a canvas for flavor. Use your favorite brand—Rhodes is a popular choice.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  Provides a caramelized, crunchy edge to the crust and sweetness inside.
• Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons)
  Balances sweet warmth and spice.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted)
  Adheres the cinnamon sugar to the dough and adds depth.

For the Glaze

• Powdered sugar (1 cup)
  Dissolves smoothly, creating a velvety texture.
• Water or milk (2 to 3 tablespoons)
  Adjust to reach your preferred consistency.
• Lemon juice (optional, 1 teaspoon)
  A squeeze brightens the flavor and offsets the richness.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

1. Thaw and Prep the Dough

Take your frozen bread dough from the package and, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or for about 6-8 hours at room temperature. Once soft and easy to handle, lightly flour your work surface and gently press the dough into a rectangle shape, roughly 8×14 inches.

Example

If you’re baking two loaves, divide the dough and repeat the process for each piece.

2. Mix Cinnamon and Sugar

In a bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until fully blended. This ensures even distribution throughout.

3. Divide and Shape

Slice the dough along the longer side into four strips, but don’t cut all the way through—leave the last half-inch attached, forming a “book.” Flip the dough and repeat, creating a crosshatch pattern. This method ensures that when the bread bakes, it pulls apart in thick, flavor-infused chunks.

4. Butter and Coat

Brush the entire surface, including inside the cuts, with melted butter. Rub the cinnamon-sugar mixture thoroughly into all cracks and crevices. Any extra cinnamon sugar can be pressed onto the outside for those classic crunchy edges.

5. Pan and Proof

Place the prepped bread in a greased loaf pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until puffy—usually about 45 minutes to an hour, or until doubled in size.

Example

If your kitchen is cool, set the pan near your oven while it preheats. The ambient warmth helps the dough rise properly.

6. Bake

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Slide the loaf pan onto the center rack and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Check halfway through—if the top starts to brown too fast, loosely tent with foil.

The bread is done when the crust is golden and a thermometer reads 195-200°F in the center.

7. Mix and Drizzle the Glaze

While the bread cools in the pan for 10 minutes, whisk together the powdered sugar and liquid of choice until you have a pourable but not runny glaze. A dash of lemon juice, if desired, keeps things from tasting overly sweet.

Turn the bread onto a wire rack, then drizzle the glaze generously over the top, letting it seep into the cracks.

Tips for Success

• Proofing:
  Allowing dough to rise adequately creates an airy crumb. Over-proofed loaves can collapse. Under-proofed ones turn dense and chewy.
• Even Baking:
  Rotate the pan halfway through the bake for a uniform crust.
• Serving suggestion:
  Serve warm for the best flavor. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed.
• Variations:
  Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth, or top with chopped pecans for crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Homemade Dough?

Absolutely. Any basic white bread dough works. Make sure it’s enriched (a little butter or milk) for softness.

What If I Don’t Have a Loaf Pan?

A cake pan or casserole dish works. Just watch the baking time and aim for even thickness to keep the bread soft.

Is It Possible to Make Ahead?

Prepare the loaf up to the proofing stage, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for special occasions or holidays.

Table: Ingredient Substitutions

Storage and Reheating

Dollywood Cinnamon Bread tastes best the day it’s made, but storing leftovers is easy.

Storing:

• Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap; keeps for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap unglazed bread in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing.

Reheating:

Microwave individual slices briefly for that “just-baked” effect, or warm the whole loaf in a low oven.

Creative Ways to Serve and Enjoy

Don’t let any piece go to waste. If you have leftovers or want to get creative:

• French Toast: Slice thickly and soak in egg mixture for an indulgent breakfast treat.
• Bread Pudding: Cube and toss with custard for a spiced dessert.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: Layer slices around vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a unique twist.

Homemade Dollywood Cinnamon Bread brings the festival atmosphere right to your kitchen. With its approachable ingredients and straightforward method, this bread suits both beginner and seasoned bakers. The result: a soft, sweet loaf that echoes the magic of Dollywood, just a little closer to home. Bake a loaf, share with friends, or keep it all for yourself. Either way, the scent of cinnamon and sugar will make your kitchen everyone’s favorite spot.