Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• For the Icing:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside.

Make the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until combined.

Layer the Batter and Filling:
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Add the remaining batter, spreading it gently to cover.
Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter to create a marbled effect.

Bake:
Bake the bread for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Icing:
While the bread cools, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency with a little more milk if needed.

Add the Icing and Serve:
Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing generously over the top.
Slice and enjoy the warm, cinnamon goodness!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings: 8–10 slices

Tips for Perfecting Your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

Creating the perfect Dollywood Cinnamon Bread at home requires careful attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure baking success:

Baking Dollywood Cinnamon Bread successfully requires attention to detail. For starters, avoid overmixing the batter, as it can lead to a dense loaf. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, always preheat your oven and use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate. If your bread tends to dry out, covering it loosely with foil halfway through baking can help retain moisture. To keep leftovers fresh, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freezing the loaf is an excellent option. Simply thaw and reheat to enjoy its freshly baked texture.

 

Variations and Customizations

One of the best aspects of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is its versatility, allowing you to create countless variations. For a nutty twist, try adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the cinnamon filling. The crunch complements the soft bread and creates a delightful contrast. Similarly, dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dates can add bursts of sweetness and texture to each bite. If you prefer a chocolatey version, sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling or on top before baking. Additionally, experimenting with the icing opens up even more possibilities. Substituting the vanilla extract with almond, maple, or citrus extract can create unique flavors that pair beautifully with the cinnamon.

If you’re adapting the recipe for dietary preferences, there are several options. Gluten-free bakers can substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking blend. Vegans can replace milk with almond or oat milk, butter with plant-based margarine, and eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). For a lower-sugar version, you can use sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia in both the bread and icing. By trying these variations, you can create a personalized version of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread that suits your tastes and dietary needs while staying true to its essence.

Experimenting with these customizations will let you create a version of Dollywood’s Cinnamon Bread tailored to your tastes or dietary needs!

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

Can I use store-bought dough instead of making it from scratch?
Absolutely! Using store-bought dough is a time-saving option, though it may not perfectly replicate the texture of the homemade version. To achieve the best results, select high-quality dough designed for sweet bread recipes.

 

How do I prevent the bread from becoming too dry or soggy?
To avoid dryness, do not overbake the bread and ensure the batter is not overmixed. For sogginess, swirl the cinnamon filling evenly to prevent it from settling at the bottom. Additionally, allow the bread to cool slightly before adding the icing, as this can trap steam and affect the texture.

 

Can I freeze the dough or the finished bread?
Yes, both options work well. Freeze the raw dough tightly wrapped in plastic, and thaw it overnight before baking. Alternatively, freeze the baked loaf and reheat it in the oven at 300°F for a freshly baked taste.

 

Conclusion

Making Dollywood Cinnamon Bread at home is a rewarding experience that combines the joy of baking with the comfort of a warm, sweet treat. Whether you follow the recipe as written or add your personal twist, this iconic bread is sure to impress. By recreating it, you can bring a slice of Dollywood into your kitchen and share its magic with family and friends. For those eager to experience the authentic version, a visit to Dollywood’s Grist Mill is highly recommended. Until then, enjoy every bite of your homemade cinnamon bread!