Can you smell the sweet aroma of Dollywoods famous cinnamon bread wafting from your oven with this easy homemade recipe using simple ingredients like flour and cinnamon perfect for a quick weeknight dinner treat Save for later

Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread

Introduction

Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon bread wafting through your home, reminiscent of a visit to Dollywood, the beloved theme park in Tennessee. Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread is a treasured treat that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the magic of creative baking. This recipe is not only a delight to the senses but also surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for impressive results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cinnamon bread recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of sweetness and warmth to their day.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The secret to Dollywood’s cinnamon bread lies in its perfectly balanced blend of sweet and spicy flavors, achieved with readily available ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive outcome, the recipe involves straightforward steps that are easy to follow, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: With its beautiful, swirly cinnamon pattern and irresistible aroma, this bread is sure to impress family and friends, all while requiring surprisingly little effort.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, warm water, unsalted butter, eggs, and of course, cinnamon. For practical substitutions, you can use brown sugar instead of granulated for a deeper flavor, or almond milk if you prefer a non-dairy option. The versatility of these ingredients allows for creativity while maintaining the essence of the original recipe.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in warm water, then combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add unsalted butter and eggs, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
2. Step 2: Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Mix cinnamon and sugar, and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough into a tight log, cut it in half lengthwise, and then twist the two halves together, forming a beautiful swirl pattern.
4. Step 4: Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing and serving.

Handy Tips

• Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If you find your dough isn’t rising well, check the expiration date of your yeast.
• Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to a dense bread. Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
• For an extra crispy crust, brush the top of the bread with egg wash before baking.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread is 350°F. The baking time is approximately 35-40 minutes, but this can vary depending on your oven. Signs of doneness include a golden brown crust and a hollow sound when you tap the top of the loaf. It’s also important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190°F to 200°F for fully cooked bread.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the cinnamon sugar topping and the crust of the bread. To achieve a crispy crust, make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and avoid overbaking. The internal texture should be soft and fluffy, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy exterior.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to simplify the kneading process and achieve a smoother dough.
• For easier cleanup, line your loaf pan with parchment paper before adding the dough.
• To enhance the cinnamon flavor, use high-quality cinnamon and consider adding a hint of nutmeg or cardamom for depth.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover cinnamon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also toast slices for a crispy exterior.
• Consider using glass or ceramic containers for storing bread, as metal can impart unwanted flavors.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread makes a wonderful gift, especially when packaged thoughtfully. Consider wrapping a cooled loaf in decorative paper or a cloth bag, and tying with a ribbon. You can also include a jar of homemade cinnamon butter or a packet of gourmet coffee for a complete gift basket. For a more rustic look, use a wicker basket lined with a checkered cloth, and add a few cinnamon sticks for garnish.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Experiment with nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice to add unique twists to your cinnamon bread.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to the cinnamon sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose to create a healthier version, or use vegan butter and eggs for a plant-based option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your bread turns out too dense, check your yeast expiration and ensure you didn’t overmix the dough. For a bread that’s too dry, try increasing the liquid content slightly.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of an ingredient, refer to the substitutions mentioned in the key ingredients section. Always test a small batch with any new substitutions to ensure the desired outcome.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your bread while it’s baking. An undercooked loaf will be pale and soft, while an overcooked one will be too dark and hard. Adjust your baking time as needed based on your oven’s performance.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours to create a gluten-free version, keeping in mind that the texture and rise may differ.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves. Just ensure you have large enough bowls and pans to accommodate the increased dough size.

Conclusion

With its irresistible aroma and beautiful presentation, Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, this recipe is versatile and sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavor variations and substitutions provided to make the recipe your own. Share your experiences, tips, and creations with friends and family, and enjoy the joy of baking that this recipe brings. Happy baking!