If you’ve ever wandered through Dollywood and been captivated by the sweet, spicy aroma drifting from the bakery, you’re going to love recreating this at home. The Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe is a delightful, moist loaf packed with warm cinnamon sugar swirls and topped with a luscious, creamy icing that balances perfectly with its gentle sweetness. Every bite brings that cozy feeling of freshly baked comfort straight from the heart of the Smoky Mountains to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or a special treat, this bread truly feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create magic. Each one plays an essential role: from the fluffiness of the flour and the richness of the butter to the sweetness of brown sugar and the spice of cinnamon, every element enhances the bread’s texture, flavor, and aroma.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise, making it light and fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough itself.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the batter for a soft, moist texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings rich flavor and moistness to the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Creates those signature sweet cinnamon swirls.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers warm, spicy notes.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the icing’s silky sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds creaminess and depth to the icing.
- 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream): Ensures the icing spreads smooth and creamy, with cream adding extra richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the icing with a delicate vanilla flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the icing perfectly.
How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sifting these together helps distribute everything evenly, which is key to getting that consistent texture in your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture brings richness and moisture, making the bread tender and flavorful. It’s important to blend these well for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold them together until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so a few lumps are perfectly fine here. This step forms the base of your delicious cinnamon bread.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Layer
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. This combination is what gives the bread its iconic swirl of sweet, spicy goodness. You’ll be layering this within the batter soon.
Step 5: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the batter into a greased loaf pan. Evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter, then carefully pour the remaining batter on top. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar blend. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for that signature marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of cinnamon baking into the bread will fill your kitchen and make waiting a true delight.
Step 7: Make the Icing
While the bread is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, milk (or heavy cream), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and glossy. This icing adds the perfect sweet finishing touch, dripping down the warm bread in luscious waves.
Step 8: Glaze the Bread
Once the bread has cooled slightly, generously drizzle the icing over the top. If it’s still warm, the icing will melt into all the little nooks and crannies, making each slice irresistibly moist and flavorful. Now your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive flair, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the icing just before it sets. Freshly grated nutmeg or a light dusting of cinnamon can also add an extra pop of aroma and flavor that makes each slice visually inviting and mouthwatering.
Side Dishes
This sweet bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect companion for a cozy morning or afternoon break. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside creamy scrambled eggs or fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe into a show-stopping breakfast by slicing thick pieces and toasting them lightly — the icing caramelizes slightly for an irresistible crunch. You can also transform it into French toast for a decadent twist or serve it warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover cinnamon bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days, keeping that beautiful moist texture intact without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, slice the bread before freezing and separate slices with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever a craving strikes without any hassle.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth and softness, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. If frozen, thaw first at room temperature, then warm gently for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and denser texture. You might want to combine it with all-purpose flour for a balance of softness and wholesomeness in your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of regular milk. The bread will still be delicious, with just a slightly different richness.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the bread?
Of course! Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for some extra texture and bursts of flavor that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
Why is my cinnamon bread sometimes dry?
Overbaking or overmixing the batter can lead to dryness. Follow the recipe times closely, and be gentle when combining ingredients to keep your Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe perfectly moist and tender.
How thick should I slice the bread?
Slicing about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick is ideal. This thickness lets each slice hold together beautifully but still stay tender enough to enjoy as a stand-alone snack or base for toppings.
Final Thoughts
Making the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe at home is like bringing a little piece of that special Dollywood magic right into your kitchen. It’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delightful — whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a quiet moment yourself. Give it a try and get ready to have a new favorite bread that fills your home with warmth and sweetness every time you bake it.
Print
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a delightful homemade sweet bread featuring a soft, tender crumb infused with warm cinnamon and brown sugar swirls. Finished with a luscious vanilla icing, this loaf makes for a perfect breakfast treat or an indulgent snack anytime.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the milk, melted unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and thoroughly blended.
- Make the Cinnamon Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon; this will be used to swirl through the batter.
- Prepare the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Filling: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then finish by sprinkling the remaining cinnamon mixture over the top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking around 45 minutes.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely before icing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Make the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, milk or heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pourable.
- Apply the Icing: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the icing evenly over the top of the loaf. Allow the icing to set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a richer bread, substitute whole milk with buttermilk or add an extra tablespoon of butter.
- Heavy cream in the icing makes it creamier but milk works fine for a lighter glaze.
- Ensure the bread is fully cooled before icing to avoid the glaze melting off.
- This bread is best eaten within 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm treat.
- You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for additional texture.
