If you have a sweet tooth and a love for warm, comforting treats, the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe is your next kitchen adventure. This luscious, cinnamon-spiced bread topped with a smooth, sweet icing is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of Southern charm and cozy mornings wrapped into one. Perfectly soft on the inside with an irresistibly sugary crust, every bite feels like a warm hug from the South. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun and all the flavor. These simple but essential components each play a vital role in giving the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe its signature softness, sweetness, and that beautiful golden hue.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread its tender yet sturdy crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully and ensures a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the cinnamon swirl.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the batter for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives richness and a velvety texture to the bread.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dough.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Creates that irresistible cinnamon sugar swirl with a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that makes this bread unforgettable.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the base of the luscious icing that drapes over the loaf.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for icing): Adds a silky richness to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream: Adjusts the consistency of the icing to just the right drip.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing): Enhances the sweetness with subtle aromatic notes.
- Pinch of salt (for icing): Balances the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
How to Make Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. This step ensures your bread has an even rise and a perfectly balanced base before you add the wet ingredients. Prepping the dry mix helps your cinnamon bread develop its signature light texture and delicate crumb.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients separately guarantees that your bread batter will be smooth and rich. It’s this mix that creates the tender softness you’ll fall in love with in the finished loaf.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly blend the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or you might end up with a denser bread. The mixture should be slightly lumpy but well incorporated, setting the stage for a loaf that rises fluffy yet moist.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Grab a small bowl and mix together your brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This filling is the heart and soul of the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe, creating the signature pockets of warm, sweet flavor scattered throughout the loaf. Set it aside until you are ready to layer it in.
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar
Pour half of the batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the batter, then add the remaining batter on top. Finally, finish with the rest of the cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top. This layering technique creates that beautiful spiral effect with bursts of cinnamon in every slice.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
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. As the bread bakes, your kitchen will fill with the most comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla—a smell that is pure nostalgia.
Step 7: Prepare the Icing
While your bread is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, milk (or cream), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The icing is luscious and sweet with just enough creaminess to complement the cinnamon bread without overpowering it.
Step 8: Drizzle the Icing and Cool
Once your bread is slightly cooled but still warm, generously drizzle the icing over the top. The warmth will slightly melt the glaze, creating a glossy, irresistible finish. Let it cool completely before slicing to get those beautiful, clean slices and allow the flavors to settle.
How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of additional cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for a pretty and fragrant finishing touch. For an extra-special presentation, add a few crushed pecans or a cinnamon stick alongside the loaf—these little flourishes brighten the rustic appeal perfectly.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or hot tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. You might also serve it with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries to balance the sweetness with a hint of freshness and acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread thick and serving it toasted with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a delightful variation. For gatherings, cut the loaf into small cubes and serve as part of a brunch board with nuts, cheeses, and fresh fruit, turning the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe into a centerpiece everyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cinnamon bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the bread moist while preserving that delightful cinnamon aroma.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully if you want to enjoy it later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating
To bring frozen or stored slices back to life, warm them gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This will refresh the bread’s moistness and revive the warm flavors as if freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works best for this Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe to get the ideal texture, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that whole wheat might make the bread a bit denser.
Is there a way to make this bread dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the milk with your favorite plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and replace butter with a non-dairy margarine or coconut oil. The texture may vary slightly but the cinnamon flavor will still shine through wonderfully.
Can I double the recipe to make more loaves?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans simultaneously. Just make sure to monitor the baking time closely, as it may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your pans.
What is the best way to get the cinnamon swirl effect?
Layering the batter and cinnamon sugar in three parts—batter, cinnamon sugar, batter, cinnamon sugar—before baking ensures a beautiful cinnamon swirl throughout the bread. Don’t stir once layered; this preserves the swirl pattern perfectly.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Feel free to add chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins to either the cinnamon sugar mixture or the batter for extra texture and bursts of flavor. These additions add a lovely twist without changing the essential character of the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about baking the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing Recipe that goes beyond just a delicious treat. It invites you to slow down, savor the aromas, and share a little slice of joy with those you love. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack, this bread promises smiles with every bite. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite bread!
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: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing is a delightful homemade treat featuring a soft, fluffy cinnamon bread swirled with a rich cinnamon and brown sugar filling, topped with a sweet, creamy vanilla icing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, this bread combines warm spices and a luscious glaze for an irresistible flavor experience.
Ingredients
Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until you have a smooth, thick batter.
- Make the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together until combined.
- Assemble the bread: Pour half of the batter into a greased loaf pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon filling through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare 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 creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Glaze the bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top, spreading lightly to cover the surface. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the bread into 12 pieces and enjoy! This bread is perfect warm or at room temperature, great for breakfast or as a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea.
Notes
- You can substitute milk with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- For a richer icing, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- The swirling technique should be gentle to keep the layers distinct but blended.
- Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheat slices briefly in the microwave or toaster oven for a fresh-baked taste.
