Description
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a beloved, pull-apart sweet bread known for its buttery, cinnamon-sugar coating and soft interior. Simple to make with frozen bread dough and topped with a luscious powdered sugar icing, it’s the perfect cozy treat for breakfast or dessert that captures the spirit of the famous Dollywood theme park.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Bread
- 1 lb frozen bread dough, thawed
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (use 1/4 cup for the mixture, remainder if desired)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, sprinkled on top
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. Lightly spray the inside of the parchment as well to help keep it in place and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dough: Place the frozen bread dough loaf in the parchment-lined pan and thaw according to package instructions, typically 4–7 hours, until fully softened but not rising yet.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a shallow dish, mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon to make the cinnamon-sugar coating. Set aside.
- Cut the Dough: Using a knife, make 5–6 horizontal slits across the top of the dough, about halfway through the depth. This allows the bread to easily pull apart after baking.
- Coat in Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Generously brush the melted butter over the top and into the slits of the dough. Carefully sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the dough, ensuring to get plenty inside the slits for extra flavor.
- Top and Let Rise: Place the loaf pan in a warm area and let the dough rise for 30 minutes until slightly puffed. After rising, sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar evenly over the top.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising to ensure it is ready for baking.
- Bake: Place the risen loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is baked through and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare the Icing: While the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2–3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk to reach your preferred icing consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm bread, then serve by pulling apart pieces for a sweet, shareable treat.
Notes
- Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for a few seconds before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat for optimal flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight to bake fresh in the morning.
- Variations: For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and milk. Add nutmeg, cardamom, orange zest, or chopped nuts for different flavors.
- Cooking Tips: Fully thawed dough ensures even rise. Watch the bread while baking, as oven temperatures can vary. Adjust icing thickness to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 loaf
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
