Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe: A Taste of the Smokies

Dollywood, the renowned theme park nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, is famous for more than just its thrilling rides and captivating shows. Many visitors rave about its delicious food, and among the most sought-after treats is the legendary Dollywood cinnamon bread. While the park's exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can craft a delicious approximation that captures the essence of this iconic baked good. This recipe focuses on creating a moist, flavorful bread with a generous helping of cinnamon and sugar.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields one large loaf of Dollywood-style cinnamon bread. Adjust quantities as needed for larger batches.

• For the Bread:
  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 ½ - 5 cups all-purpose flour
• For the Cinnamon Filling:
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Instructions: Baking Your Dollywood Dream

Follow these steps carefully to recreate the magic of Dollywood's cinnamon bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and will properly leaven the bread.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. You may not need all 5 cups of flour; add it gradually until the dough is no longer sticky.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier, more flavorful bread.

Step 5: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Shape and Fill the Dough

Punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.

Step 8: Roll and Shape

Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log in half lengthwise, then twist the two halves together. Place the twisted loaf in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Step 9: Second Rise (Proofing)

Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese.

Tips for Dollywood-Level Deliciousness:

• Use good quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your bread will taste.
• Don't over-knead: Over-kneading can result in a tough bread.
• Let the dough rise properly: Proper rising is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.
• Monitor baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread to prevent over-baking.

Enjoy your homemade Dollywood-inspired cinnamon bread! This recipe is a delightful approximation of the park's famous treat, offering a taste of the Smokies in your own kitchen. Remember to share your baking adventures and tag us! #DollywoodCinnamonBread #HomemadeGoodness #SmokyMountainBaking