Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

If you’ve ever wandered through Dollywood and caught a whiff of that irresistible sweet and spicy aroma, you know exactly why the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe has such a special place in so many hearts. This delightful treat combines soft, tender bread with a luscious swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, all topped off with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth icing that transforms an ordinary slice of bread into a celebration of flavors. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic comfort food or looking to impress friends with a homemade classic, this recipe brings that unique Dollywood magic right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to whip up this delicious Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe is easier than you might think. The ingredients are simple, approachable staples, each chosen for how they build the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and that iconic cinnamon punch.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft and fluffy base for the bread.
• 1/2 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the crust caramelize beautifully.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your bread rises just right for a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted: Gives a buttery softness to the bread’s texture.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to that perfect structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends a warm, aromatic undertone deepening the flavor.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted (for filling): Makes the cinnamon swirl wonderfully gooey and rich.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and a molasses depth inside the bread.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that adds warmth and irresistible aroma.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Essential for the sweet, smooth icing drizzled on top.
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing): Creates a silky consistency for the glaze.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing): Adds a lovely finishing touch to the icing’s flavor.

How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a loaf pan liberally to ensure the bread won’t stick and can easily be removed once baked.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This blend forms the dry base, setting you up for a perfectly textured bread.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and flavor, bringing richness into the batter.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop as soon as there are no large pockets of dry flour.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly. This blend will create the irresistible swirled pockets of sweetness in the bread.

Step 6: Assemble the Bread Layers

Pour half the batter into the greased loaf pan and sprinkle half of your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it. Add the remaining batter on top, then finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar. Take a knife and gently swirl the mixture through the batter to create that signature marbled look and taste.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf – if it comes out clean, your bread is perfectly baked.

Step 8: Cool and Ice the Bread

Allow the bread to cool completely before icing. Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Drizzle this luscious icing over your cooled loaf to create that irresistible finishing touch.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy!

Once iced, slice into thick, generous pieces and enjoy bites of warm cinnamon heaven inspired by Dollywood’s beloved treat.

How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe

Garnishes

While the icing adds plenty of charm, consider a light dusting of cinnamon powder or a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra texture and a nutty crunch. These simple garnishes add a gourmet finish without overpowering the core cinnamon flavor.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon bread shines alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warming chai tea latte. For a heartier breakfast or brunch, serve with creamy scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice and toast the bread lightly, then top with a smear of cream cheese or mascarpone before drizzling with the icing. You can also cut small cubes to serve as fondue dippers with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent party treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the leftover cinnamon bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and soft. It will stay fresh at room temperature for about 2 to 3 days, making it a convenient make-ahead snack or dessert.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap the bread securely in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its texture and flavor.

Reheating

To refresh the bread after storage, warm slices briefly in a toaster oven or microwave. A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave softens it perfectly, and you can even add a little extra drizzle of icing or butter after warming for extra enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is recommended for the softness and structure it provides, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flours. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly, so you might need to adjust liquid amounts accordingly.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for both the batter and filling to keep the recipe friendly for those avoiding dairy.

How long does the icing stay good on the bread?

The icing is best enjoyed fresh but will hold up for a day or two when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It might thicken over time, so a quick stir or gentle warming can smooth it out when serving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few substitutions, yes! Use flax or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg replacer, and swap out dairy for vegan alternatives as mentioned earlier. The cinnamon swirl and icing can still shine—it’s a matter of adjusting a couple of ingredients.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?

After sprinkling the cinnamon sugar over the batter layers, swirl it gently with a butter knife or skewer by zigzagging through the batter just a few times. Over-swisting can blend the layers and lose the distinct cinnamon ribbons you want.

Final Thoughts

The Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe captures all the warmth and nostalgia of a theme park favorite, bringing it right into your home kitchen with ease and charm. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a cozy weekend morning or gifting it to a friend who loves classic comfort food, this bread offers a perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and cinnamony goodness that’s guaranteed to brighten your day. So grab your ingredients, turn on some music, and enjoy the delightful journey of baking one of Dollywood’s sweetest secrets!

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