Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing

Every time I think of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing, I’m transported back to a family trip to the Smoky Mountains. We spent the day exploring the park, and the scents wafting from the bakery were simply irresistible. The moment I took a bite, I knew I had found something special. The warm, gooey sweetness paired with that creamy icing was a memory that stuck with me, and it wasn’t long before I wanted to recreate that magic in my own kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for any cozy weekend morning or an afternoon treat. It brings that nostalgic feeling right to your home, and it’s so easy to whip up! Whether you’re gathering your family around the table or treating yourself to a little indulgence, this cinnamon bread will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love "Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing"

• Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can whip this up on a busy morning or lazy afternoon.
• Made with minimal ingredients, so you probably have everything you need already in your pantry!
• Family-friendly and sure to please everyone, from kids to grandparents.
• Perfect for sharing at gatherings, or just enjoying with your morning coffee.
• Deliciously warm right out of the oven, but also delightful served at room temperature.
• Leftovers can be frozen for a sweet treat later on, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (16 oz) loaf frozen bread dough, thawed – I usually go for Rhodes brand; it’s reliable and works like a charm!
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Use a fine sugar for even distribution in your cinnamon mixture.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Freshly ground cinnamon has a richer flavor, but store-bought works just fine too.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Always use unsalted for better control of seasoning!
• 1 cup powdered sugar – This will be for the icing, so make sure it’s sifted for a smooth finish.
• 2–3 tablespoons milk – Adjust the amount based on how thick or thin you want your icing.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Pure vanilla is always best for that extra flavor boost!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when your dough is ready to go in.

Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Give it a good stir until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This will be your magical cinnamon sugar mixture!

Roll Out the Dough

1. Now, take that thawed bread dough and sprinkle a little flour on your countertop or a clean surface. This helps prevent sticking.
2. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Don’t stress if it’s not a perfect rectangle; we’re going for delicious, not perfection!

Apply Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

1. Brush ¼ cup melted unsalted butter over the surface of the dough. Make sure to cover it well, as this will add richness and help the cinnamon sugar stick.
2. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough. Use your hands to gently press it into the dough, so it really sticks!

Roll and Place in Loaf Pan

1. Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. It’s okay if some filling spills out; just tuck it back in as best you can!
2. Once rolled, pinch the ends to seal it up and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. This will help it keep its shape while it bakes.

Let it Rise

1. Cover the pan loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffed up and looks a bit bigger!

Bake the Bread

1. Pop the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want it to be golden brown and have a lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen.
2. Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps keep the bottom from getting soggy.

Make the Icing

1. While your bread cools, it’s icing time! In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Drizzle and Serve

1. Once your bread has cooled completely, drizzle that luscious icing over the top. Don’t be shy; let it drip down the sides for extra sweetness!
2. Slice it up and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing!

Variations

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
• For a seasonal flair, try adding pumpkin spice during fall.
• Use almond milk and dairy-free butter to make it dairy-free.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple for unique flavors.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

For the best experience, serve the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread warm right out of the oven, or let it cool to room temperature for a delightful treat. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. It’s also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist!

Storage

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever the craving strikes!

Helpful Notes

• If you don’t have frozen bread dough, you can use homemade dough or even store-bought biscuit dough for a quick alternative.
• For a nut-free version, simply skip the nuts or ensure all ingredients are processed in a nut-free facility.
• Add a pinch of salt to the icing for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
• Feel free to sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top of the icing for an added flavor boost.
• To lower the sugar content, try using a sugar substitute in the filling and icing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze the Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature and reheat gently in the oven.

What can I substitute for the frozen bread dough?

If you don’t have frozen bread dough, you can use homemade bread dough or even biscuit dough as a quick alternative. You could also try using pizza dough for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly!

How do I adjust the icing consistency?

To adjust the icing consistency, simply add more milk if it’s too thick, or add more powdered sugar if it’s too runny. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and gradually add more as needed until you achieve your desired thickness. A thicker icing will stay put, while a thinner one will drizzle beautifully!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free! Just swap the unsalted butter for a dairy-free butter alternative, and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk for the icing. This way, you can enjoy the sweetness without the dairy!

How long does the bread last?

The Dollywood Cinnamon Bread will last about 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you choose to refrigerate it, it might dry out a bit faster, so I recommend enjoying it within that time frame for the best flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

There you have it! Your very own Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing right from the comfort of your kitchen. I can already imagine the smell wafting through your home and the smiles on your family’s faces as they take their first bite. This recipe is all about creating those warm, cozy moments and filling your heart (and tummy) with sweet happiness. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful experience. I can’t wait for you to try it — trust me, it’s going to be a keeper!

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