Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing

Every time I think about Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing, I'm transported back to those family trips to the Smoky Mountains. There's something magical about that sweet, spicy aroma wafting through the park, mingling with the laughter and excitement all around. I can still picture my kids' little faces lighting up as we all gathered around the cozy bakery, eagerly waiting for our warm slices topped with that dreamy icing. It's one of those recipes that brings everyone together, perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a special occasion when you want to make memories over a sweet treat.

This cinnamon bread is not just a delightful dessert; it embodies the spirit of comfort and joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones. It's simple enough to whip up on a whim, yet impressive enough to serve when you have guests. Every bite is a reminder of those cherished moments, making it a true keeper in my recipe book. Let's dive in and recreate this deliciousness right in your own kitchen!

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

• This recipe is incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes of hands-on time.
• It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you might already have at home!
• This cinnamon bread is family-friendly, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• It's a fantastic make-ahead option; you can freeze it for later enjoyment.
• The warm, sweet aroma fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• It's versatile enough to serve on special occasions or as a delightful everyday treat.

Ingredients You'll Need

Bread Dough

• 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed (I recommend using a quality brand like Rhodes for the best results.)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (If you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce this to ⅓ cup.)
• 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Feel free to adjust to taste; more cinnamon can enhance that warm flavor.)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (Use unsalted to control the overall saltiness of the bread.)

Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar (Make sure to sift it to avoid lumps for a smooth icing.)
• 2-3 tablespoon milk (Start with 2 tablespoons; add a bit more if you desire a thinner consistency.)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor, but imitation works too in a pinch.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bread will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon until well combined. The aroma is heavenly!

Roll Out the Dough

1. Take your thawed loaf of frozen bread dough and lightly flour your work surface.
2. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Brush the rolled-out dough generously with the ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, ensuring every corner gets a good coat.

Assemble the Bread

1. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough, making sure to cover it all.
2. Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log. Don't worry if it looks a bit messy; that's part of the charm!
3. Pinch the seams to seal it and place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. This helps keep all that delicious filling inside.

Bake the Bread

1. Pop the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and has that irresistible smell wafting through your kitchen.
2. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to take out without it falling apart.

Make the Icing

1. While the bread is cooling, prepare the icing. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
2. Stir until smooth and silky. If it's too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Drizzle and Serve

1. Once the bread has cooled slightly, drizzle the icing generously over the warm loaf. Let it soak in a bit for that perfect sweet touch.
2. Slice and serve warm, preferably with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort experience!

Variations

• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Mix in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a sweet surprise.
• Try using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall twist.
• Make it dairy-free by substituting the butter with coconut oil and using plant-based milk.
• For a lighter version, use whole wheat bread dough instead of white.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

• Serve the bread warm, ideally right after drizzling with icing for maximum flavor.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.
• Consider adding fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra indulgence.

Storage

• Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, feel free to add more cinnamon to the mixture.
• If you don't have powdered sugar, you can blend granulated sugar until fine for a similar effect.
• Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra warmth in the flavor profile.
• This recipe can easily be made nut-free by omitting any nut additions.
• For a fun twist, try adding a layer of chocolate chips before rolling the dough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze this cinnamon bread! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

How can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

You can substitute the frozen bread dough with homemade dough if you prefer. For the butter, coconut oil works as a great dairy-free alternative. And if you don't have granulated sugar, brown sugar can add a nice depth of flavor.

How long does the bread stay fresh?

The bread stays fresh at room temperature for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. If you refrigerate it, it may last a bit longer, but I recommend enjoying it within a week for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use a non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk for the icing. It's a simple swap that still gives you that delicious taste!

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can mix in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist. A dash of nutmeg or even a bit of orange zest in the icing can brighten up the flavor too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you're as excited to try this Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing as I am every time I make it! There's something so heartwarming about baking this sweet treat and sharing it with family and friends. Whether it's for a cozy breakfast or a special gathering, this recipe is bound to create smiles around the table. So, tie on that apron, let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen, and enjoy the beautiful moments that come with baking. I can't wait to hear how yours turns out - happy baking!