Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing
Introduction
Dollywood’s famous Cinnamon Bread is a legendary theme park treat, drawing visitors in with its warm, sweet aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s a soft, pull-apart bread coated in cinnamon sugar, baked to perfection, and topped with a delicious icing drizzle.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This cinnamon bread originates from Dollywood, a theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, owned by country music star Dolly Parton. Over the years, it has become one of the most beloved treats at the park, gaining a reputation as a must-try item for visitors. The bread’s simple yet indulgent flavors capture the essence of Southern hospitality and home-style baking.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough (thawed) or homemade dough
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Raisins or chopped pecans for added texture
- A sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth in flavor
- Cream cheese icing instead of traditional icing for a richer topping
- Caramel drizzle for extra indulgence
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality bread dough for the best texture. If using frozen dough, let it thaw properly before baking.
- Don’t skip the butter coating—this helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick to the bread.
- Score the bread lightly before baking to allow the flavors to seep inside.
- Bake until golden brown and let it cool slightly before adding icing to prevent it from melting completely.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mix by combining granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Coat the bread: Brush the loaf with melted butter, making sure to cover all sides. Roll the bread in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Score the loaf by making shallow cuts along the top, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- Make the icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over the warm bread and serve immediately.
Description
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a heavenly treat featuring a golden, caramelized cinnamon-sugar crust, a soft pull-apart interior, and a sweet vanilla icing drizzle. Every bite is warm, buttery, and packed with nostalgic, comforting flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 280-320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
This homemade version of Dollywood’s Cinnamon Bread brings the magic of the theme park right to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a dessert, it’s an easy and delightful recipe that never fails to impress.
Recommendation
Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, try using whole wheat dough, reducing the sugar, or using a sugar substitute. You can also experiment with almond milk in the icing for a dairy-free option.