There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread wafting through the kitchen. This Dollywood-inspired treat is a warm, buttery loaf coated in a rich blend of cinnamon and sugar, with a soft, pull-apart texture that makes every bite irresistible. Topped with a simple glaze, it’s a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a delightful indulgence for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat. One of the best parts of this recipe is how easy it is to recreate at home. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend morning, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cinnamon bread is sure to impress. Serve it warm, and watch as it disappears within minutes—it’s that good!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Roll the thawed bread dough into a log shape, then make deep slits about 1 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a bowl, mix the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Brush the dough generously with melted butter, making sure it seeps into the slits.
- Roll the dough in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing it into the slits.
- Place the coated dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
- While baking, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form a glaze.
- Remove the bread from the oven, let cool slightly, then drizzle with glaze. Serve warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is one of the most beloved theme park treats, known for its warm, buttery texture and rich cinnamon-sugar coating. Originating from the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, this bread has gained legendary status among visitors. Guests eagerly line up at The Grist Mill, where the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread fills the air. If you’ve ever tried it, you know just how irresistible it is! Now, with this homemade version, you can enjoy the magic of Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread right in your own kitchen.
The Story Behind Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
Dollywood, the popular theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, is known for more than just thrilling rides and live entertainment—it’s also famous for its incredible Southern-inspired food. One of its most famous offerings is the cinnamon bread, which has been a park staple for years. The recipe remains a well-kept secret, but home bakers have done their best to recreate it. The bread is sold fresh at The Grist Mill, where visitors watch it being made from scratch before enjoying a warm, gooey, and perfectly spiced slice.
This cinnamon bread is different from traditional cinnamon rolls—it’s a pull-apart loaf, where the dough is scored before baking, allowing the cinnamon-sugar mixture and melted butter to seep deep into every crevice. The result? A soft, pillowy loaf with a caramelized cinnamon crust and an irresistible vanilla glaze drizzle.
Why This Recipe is the Best
1. Simple and Easy to Make
Unlike traditional bread recipes that require kneading and hours of rising, this recipe uses frozen bread dough, making it quick and foolproof. With just a few simple ingredients—bread dough, butter, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla—you can recreate this iconic treat in under an hour.
2. Irresistible Flavor and Texture
What makes this cinnamon bread so addictive is its combination of textures and flavors. The inside stays soft and fluffy, while the outer crust becomes golden brown and caramelized. Every bite is infused with buttery cinnamon goodness, and the sweet vanilla glaze takes it to the next level.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
This bread isn’t just for Dollywood fans—it’s an excellent treat for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a holiday gift. Serve it warm with coffee or tea for a comforting morning indulgence, or enjoy it as a sweet snack any time of day. It’s also a great choice for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday brunches.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Want to add extra crunch? Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. Prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor? Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves to the sugar mixture. You can even experiment with different glazes, like a cream cheese frosting or a caramel drizzle, for an extra indulgent twist.
Tips for Making the Perfect Dollywood Cinnamon Bread
To ensure your cinnamon bread turns out just as delicious as the famous Dollywood version, follow these tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients – Since this recipe has just a few ingredients, quality matters! Use real butter, pure vanilla extract, and fresh cinnamon for the best flavor.
- Don’t Cut All the Way Through – When scoring the bread, be careful not to slice all the way to the bottom. This keeps the loaf intact while still allowing the butter and cinnamon-sugar to seep inside.
- Generously Coat the Bread – The key to achieving that signature Dollywood flavor is to fully coat the bread in melted butter and the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Don’t be shy—get every nook and cranny!
- Bake Until Golden Brown – Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. You want a golden-brown crust with a soft and fluffy interior.
- Serve Warm – This bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s warm and gooey. If you have leftovers, reheat them briefly in the oven or microwave to revive that just-baked taste.
Serving Suggestions
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is already amazing on its own, but you can elevate it even further with these serving ideas:
- With Apple Butter: A classic pairing that enhances the warm, spiced flavors.
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: Turn it into a decadent dessert by serving warm slices with a scoop of ice cream.
- With Coffee or Tea: A cozy and comforting treat to enjoy with your favorite hot beverage.
- With Whipped Cream: A light, airy addition that complements the richness of the bread.
Health Benefits (Because Treats Can Be Good for the Soul!)
While this recipe is definitely an indulgence, it also has some benefits:
- Homemade Goodness: By making it at home, you can control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives found in store-bought baked goods.
- Mood Booster: The smell of cinnamon has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood—baking this bread is like aromatherapy!
- Energy Boosting: A slice of cinnamon bread can provide a quick energy boost, making it a delicious pick-me-up during the day.
- Antioxidant Properties: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory benefits, making this treat slightly more justifiable!
Conclusion
If you’ve never tried making cinnamon bread at home, this is the perfect recipe to start with. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re a longtime Dollywood fan or simply someone who loves the comforting taste of cinnamon and sugar, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, why wait in line at Dollywood when you can bring the magic home? With this simple yet delicious recipe, you can enjoy the iconic taste of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread anytime you like. Happy baking!