Sure! Here’s a detailed breakdown of Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing:
Introduction
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing is a beloved treat that has gained legendary status at Dollywood, the famous theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
This soft, sweet, and cinnamon-infused bread is known for its irresistible flavor, and the warm icing drizzled on top adds the perfect touch of indulgence.
Often served fresh and hot, this cinnamon bread has become a must-try snack for visitors, making it a symbol of comfort and southern hospitality.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread was created in the 1980s and has since become an iconic treat at the Dollywood theme park, which was founded by country music legend Dolly Parton.
The bread is baked fresh daily at the park, and its cinnamon flavor evokes the warmth of southern baking traditions.
In Tennessee, cinnamon bread is a familiar comfort food often served during family gatherings or festivals. The combination of the soft, fluffy texture of the bread and the rich, spiced sweetness of cinnamon reflects the warmth and hospitality that defines Southern cuisine.
Today, Dollywood’s version of cinnamon bread is famous nationwide, with visitors often taking home loaves as souvenirs.
Cultural Significance
Cinnamon bread holds a special place in American baking, particularly in the southern United States, where cinnamon rolls and sweet breads have long been staples in family kitchens.
This treat connects people to memories of warm kitchens, gatherings around the dinner table, and community celebrations. At Dollywood, it is not just a treat but an experience — people wait in line to get a fresh loaf, savoring the experience as part of the magic of the park.
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread embodies the essence of comfort, family, and tradition, making it a perfect representation of Dolly Parton’s values of warmth, kindness, and family.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Bread:
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for activating yeast)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or more, to adjust consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for a deeper, molasses flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (to add warmth to the spice mix)
- A pinch of salt in the icing to balance the sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (adds an extra hint of warmth)
- Drizzle of honey on top of the bread for a touch of extra sweetness
Tips for Success
- Activate the yeast properly: Ensure your water is at the right temperature (not too hot or cold) to activate the yeast. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Knead the dough just enough to bring it together. Overworking the dough can result in a dense bread rather than a soft, fluffy one.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place: The dough will rise best if placed in a warm, draft-free spot. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough near a warm oven or covering it with a warm towel.
- Use plenty of cinnamon sugar: Be generous with the cinnamon-sugar filling for that signature sweet, spiced flavor throughout the bread.
- Cool slightly before icing: Let the bread cool for a few minutes before drizzling the icing on top. This allows the icing to melt just slightly into the bread, giving it a rich finish.
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm water and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture to this and stir. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar filling: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. In another bowl, soften the butter for spreading.
- Shape the bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, and then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously on top.
- Roll and slice: Roll the dough up tightly from the long side, like a jelly roll. Cut the roll into 6-8 slices and place them into a greased baking dish.
- Second rise: Let the cinnamon rolls rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, covered with a towel.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown.
- Make the icing: While the bread is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Add more milk if the icing is too thick.
- Ice the bread: Once the bread is baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the icing generously over the warm bread. Serve and enjoy!
Description
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing is a warm, decadent treat that combines soft, fluffy bread with the perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, all drizzled with a sweet, creamy icing.
The bread is light and airy with a rich, spiced flavor that’s comforting and satisfying. The icing adds a touch of sweetness that complements the cinnamon filling, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
This bread is ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, bringing a touch of Southern charm and nostalgia to your table.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 330
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
- Vitamin A: 8% of the Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 0% of the Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% of the Daily Value
- Iron: 6% of the Daily Value
Conclusion
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread with Icing is an indulgent and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its soft, fluffy texture combined with the warm, sweet cinnamon flavor and creamy icing is the ultimate comfort food.
Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or saving it for later, this bread is sure to bring a smile to your face with every bite.
Recommendation
For a healthier indulgence, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content slightly.
You can also experiment with different fillings, like adding chopped nuts or using a reduced-fat cream cheese icing.
This bread is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or whenever you need a sweet treat that feels like a hug in every bite.
Would you like me to suggest any variations for this recipe, or tips on serving?