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Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

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Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a legendary pull-apart loaf coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, capturing the nostalgic flavor of the famous treat from Dollywood’s Grist Mill. Soft, fluffy, and drizzled with a sweet glaze, it’s a comforting bake perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk (warmed)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
  • 12 tbsp milk or water (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and eggs. Add the activated yeast mixture and softened butter.
  3. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
  4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
  6. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.
  7. Form each portion into a loaf shape and place in greased loaf pans. Cut several deep slits across the top of each loaf.
  8. Brush the tops generously with melted butter and pack the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the slits and over the top of the loaves.
  9. Let the loaves rise again for 20–30 minutes.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Let the bread cool slightly. For the optional glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or water until smooth. Drizzle over the loaves.
  12. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

You can use store-bought dough to save time.Brush extra melted butter on top after baking for added richness.Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.Optional glaze enhances sweetness but is not required.Use dairy-free milk if needed—almond, oat, or soy all work well.

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