There are certain smells that stop you in your tracks: fresh rain on dry soil, roasted coffee in a quiet morning kitchen—and then, there’s cinnamon sugar melting into butter on warm, fluffy bread. If you’ve ever experienced the legendary Dollywood Cinnamon Bread, you already know. If not, you’re in for a treat that’s far more than a recipe—it’s a warm, sweet memory in the making.
This guide will walk you through everything: from the ingredients and the steps, to storage, freezing, and customization. This isn’t just a pull-apart bread—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and a guaranteed family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, a cozy afternoon snack, or holiday mornings, this sweet bread will be the showstopper. And it’s incredibly easy to make.
1. What Is Dollywood Cinnamon Bread?
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is a sweet, buttery, pull-apart bread coated in cinnamon sugar and finished with a light vanilla glaze. Sold at the Dollywood theme park in Tennessee, this bread has a cult-like following. Its charm lies in its simplicity: tender dough, crisp crust, gooey center, and a scent that wraps around you like a hug.
And the best part? You don’t need a ticket to Tennessee to enjoy it.
2. Why This Pull-Apart Bread Is Special
Most sweet breads are served sliced—but this one? It’s torn apart by hand. That’s where the magic is. Every piece is its own little treasure: soft and rich inside, crispy and caramelized on the outside.
Here’s what makes it irresistible:
- Pull-apart format: No slicing, just grabbing. Fun, informal, and perfect for sharing.
- No stand mixer required: Great for beginners and busy bakers.
- Glaze drips into every bite: Unlike frosted breads, this light glaze seeps in gently and amplifies the flavor.
- Minimal ingredients: Pantry staples—no complicated baking science.
- Freezer-friendly: You can make it ahead and enjoy it anytime.
3. Tools & Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy tools, just:
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Sharp knife or dough cutter
- Mixing bowls (medium and small)
- Pastry brush (optional but helpful)
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil or plastic wrap (for make-ahead/storage)
4. Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Here’s your grocery list—and suggestions if you want to tweak it.
Base Dough:
- 1 loaf frozen white bread dough, thawed
Shortcut-friendly. For a homemade version, use enriched white yeast dough.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
You can also use brown sugar for deeper flavor. - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Always use fresh cinnamon for full aroma.
Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Salted works too—just reduce any added salt elsewhere.
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins: Chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, raisins, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
5. Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
✅ Step 1: Prep the Dough
Thaw frozen bread dough until soft and pliable. This may take several hours in the fridge or about 1–2 hours at room temperature.
✅ Step 2: Preheat & Grease
Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray.
✅ Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Mix well.
✅ Step 4: Cut the Dough
Slice the dough into small, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).
✅ Step 5: Coat the Dough
Dip each dough cube into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
✅ Step 6: Assemble
Loosely layer the coated dough cubes into the pan. Don’t pack them tightly—space helps them bake evenly and puff up properly.
✅ Step 7: Bake
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
✅ Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the bread cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
✅ Step 9: Glaze & Serve
Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm bread. Let it sink into the cracks. Then? Tear, share, and enjoy.
6. Make-Ahead & Overnight Tips
Want to prep it the night before?
- Assemble the coated dough in the loaf pan.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Next morning, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as usual.
This is perfect for:
- Holiday mornings
- Sunday brunch
- Gifting freshly baked bread
7. Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Room Temp: Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Not recommended—it dries out the bread.
- Freezer: Slice first, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: 10–15 seconds per slice.
- Oven: Warm at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
8. Creative Twists & Variations
Give your bread some personality:
- Sticky Pecan Cinnamon Bread: Add caramel drizzle and chopped pecans.
- Apple Pie Version: Add finely diced apples between layers.
- Orange Glaze: Replace vanilla with orange extract and add zest.
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Bread: Toss in mini chocolate chips.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Use pumpkin spice instead of just cinnamon.
9. Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
Bread didn’t rise?
Your dough may have been too cold. Let it rest at room temp longer before baking.
Top burned but inside is raw?
Check oven calibration. Use a thermometer. Also, avoid dark pans which over-brown.
Glaze melted too fast?
Wait 10 minutes after baking before glazing.
10. Serving Ideas for Every Occasion
- Brunch Board Centerpiece: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee.
- Afternoon Tea: Slice warm and serve with chai or spiced tea.
- Holiday Morning: Bake it fresh for Thanksgiving or Christmas breakfast.
- Dessert: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Gifting: Wrap in parchment, tie with twine, and deliver joy.
11. Nutrition Breakdown (Per Slice)
- Calories: 250
- Carbs: 38g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
This is an estimate. Adjust based on specific brands or substitutions.
12. FAQ – Your Questions Answered
Can I make this with homemade dough?
Absolutely. Just use your favorite enriched white bread dough.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes—but why would you? It elevates the whole loaf!
How do I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk. Choose a dough that’s dairy-free too.
Can I make it in an air fryer?
Yes—if your air fryer has a baking function and space for a small loaf pan.
13. Final Thoughts & Printable Recipe
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is proof that simple ingredients and thoughtful baking create more than just food—they create memories. Whether you’re making it to share or sneaking bites alone, this pull-apart masterpiece is more than a sweet treat—it’s an experience.
