Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing 

by

Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing

This Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a warm, gooey, and utterly delicious treat that perfectly recreates the iconic theme park favorite. With its soft, fluffy texture, swirls of cinnamon sugar, and creamy icing drizzle, this homemade version is just as irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a comforting snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe will transport you straight to the Smoky Mountains—no theme park ticket required!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Bread

  • Authentic Flavor – Just like the famous Dollywood treat
  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps
  • Versatile – Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack anytime
  • Perfect for Gatherings – A hit at family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or casual get-togethers
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh and can be reheated for later

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
  • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal

Step 2: Make the Bread Batter

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

  • In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon
  • Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan
  • Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter and drizzle with 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • Add the remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar and drizzle the remaining butter over it

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  • Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter
  • Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean
  • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely

Step 5: Make the Icing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth
  • Drizzle the icing over the cooled bread for a delicious finishing touch

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  • Slice the bread and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness

Tips for Customization

  • Add Nuts – Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
  • Make It Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
  • Extra Gooey – Swirl in a layer of caramel sauce or cream cheese filling
  • Mini Loaves – Divide the batter into mini loaf pans and reduce baking time to 25–30 minutes

Storage & Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Warm slices before serving
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes. Dairy or non-dairy milk works fine. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. This bread stays soft and moist for days and can be frozen for later

3. How do I make the bread even softer?

Try replacing half of the butter with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra moisture

Final Thoughts

This Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing is a warm, sweet, and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its soft texture, gooey cinnamon swirl, and creamy icing drizzle, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Leave a Comment