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Dorothy Thomas

Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe

A copycat version of the famous Dollywood Cinnamon Bread—soft, buttery, and swirled with cinnamon sugar, then baked to perfection. This irresistible pull-apart bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 1 10
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 240ml 1 cup Warm whole milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 7g 2 ¼ tsp Active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 65g ⅓ cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
  • 115g ½ cup Unsalted butter, melted
  • 5g 1 tsp Salt
  • 500g 4 cups All-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
  • 100g ½ cup Brown sugar
  • 30g 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon
  • 57g ¼ cup Unsalted butter, softened
or the Glaze (Optional):
  • 120g 1 cup Powdered sugar
  • 30-45ml 2-3 tbsp Milk or heavy cream
  • 5ml 1 tsp Vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Stand mixer (or large mixing bowl + wooden spoon)
  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling Pin
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Activate the yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Add remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Mix on low speed.
  3. Add flour: Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  5. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
  6. Roll out dough: On a floured surface, roll dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle.
  7. Add filling: Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly.
  8. Roll & cut: Roll tightly into a log. Cut into 8-10 slices.
  9. Arrange in pan: Place slices in a parchment-lined loaf pan. Cover and let rise 30 minutes.
  10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
  12. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm bread.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
  • Variation: Add chopped pecans or raisins to the filling.
  • No yeast? Substitute with 2 tsp baking powder + 1 tsp baking soda for a quick bread version.