Dollywood cinnamon bread recipe – recreate at home.
Dollywood cinnamon bread recipe :
If you’ve ever visited Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s family amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you might have experienced the joy of its many rides and attractions. One of the park’s iconic treats is the famous cinnamon bread available at the Dollywood Grist Mill.
With over 210,000 loaves sold every year, it’s no wonder that visitors often wait in long lines just to get a taste of this delectable treat. The pull-apart style bread features a soft, fluffy interior with layers of buttery sweetness that create an irresistible aroma and flavor profile.
In this article, we’ll provide you with the recipe to recreate this theme park favorite in your own kitchen, so you can enjoy it any time of the year without having to travel to Tennessee.
The Famous Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Story
The Dollywood cinnamon bread has become a legendary treat among park visitors. Its popularity is not just about the taste; it’s an experience that combines the joy of freshly baked goods with the charm of watching them being made.
The Grist Mill at Dollywood
The Grist Mill at Dollywood is where the magic happens. This historic mill is not just a production facility; it’s a show that visitors can enjoy. As you watch the bakers at work, you can see the care and craftsmanship that goes into each loaf of cinnamon bread. The Grist Mill’s traditional stone-grinding process and old-fashioned cooking methods contribute to the bread’s unique flavor and texture.
Why This Bread Is So Popular
So, what makes Dollywood’s cinnamon bread so beloved? The secret lies in its perfect balance of soft, fluffy texture and rich, sweet flavor. Each loaf is generously coated with butter and rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, ensuring that every bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and spice. Paired with buttercream icing or Dollywood’s homemade apple butter, the experience is even more delightful. With over 210,000 loaves sold annually at around $10 each, it’s clear that this bread has become a significant part of Dollywood’s identity.
As one visitor noted, “The cinnamon bread at Dollywood is the perfect treat after a long day of exploring the park.” This sentiment is echoed by many, making Dollywood’s cinnamon bread a must-try when visiting the park.
Dollywood Cinnamon Bread Recipe: Official Version
To recreate the iconic Dollywood cinnamon bread at home, you’ll need to start with the official recipe. This involves understanding the key components: the dough, the cinnamon-sugar topping, and the sweet glaze. Each element plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of this beloved treat.
Dough Ingredients
The foundation of Dollywood’s cinnamon bread is its dough, made with a specific blend of ingredients. While the exact proportions are a secret, the basic components include flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. The quality of these ingredients directly affects the final product, so choosing the right type and brand is essential.
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping Ingredients
The cinnamon-sugar topping is what gives Dollywood cinnamon bread its signature flavor and aroma. This mixture typically consists of granulated sugar and cinnamon. The ratio of sugar to cinnamon can be adjusted to taste, but the key is to achieve a balanced flavor that complements the bread without overpowering it.
Sweet Glaze Ingredients
The sweet glaze is the crowning glory of Dollywood’s cinnamon bread, adding a rich, velvety texture and an extra layer of sweetness. To make the glaze, you’ll need 1 ¼ cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 3 to 5 tablespoons of milk, and a pinch of salt. The confectioners’ sugar provides a smooth base, while the melted butter adds richness. Adjusting the amount of milk allows you to achieve your desired glaze consistency, from thick and creamy to thin and drizzly. The pinch of salt enhances the flavors and prevents the glaze from becoming too sweet.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of baking Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread. This process involves several key steps that will help you achieve the signature taste and texture of this beloved treat.
Preparing the Dough
Start by preparing the dough according to the ingredients listed in the previous section. Ensure that you mix all the ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth and elastic dough. Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size, which is crucial for the bread’s texture.
Creating the Signature Pull-Apart Texture
To achieve the signature pull-apart texture, you need to cut the dough into sections and layer them in a specific way. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to separate easily into individual pieces when baked.
The Butter and Cinnamon-Sugar Coating Process
Once your dough is prepared and cut, it’s time to coat it with a mixture of melted butter and cinnamon-sugar. This step is essential for the flavor and aroma of the bread. Make sure to coat the dough evenly to get the best results.
Baking and Glazing
Preheat your oven to 350°F while you’re coating the loaves. Then, bake the cinnamon-sugar coated loaves for 25-30 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. After baking, let the loaves cool for about 15 minutes before glazing. To make the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, a pinch of salt, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. You can adjust the glaze’s consistency by adding up to 2 more tablespoons of milk if needed. Finally, drizzle the glaze over the warm loaves or serve it on the side for dipping.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious Dollywood-style cinnamon bread that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips for Perfect Dollywood-Style Cinnamon Bread
To recreate the Dollywood cinnamon bread experience at home, consider a few expert tips that will elevate your baking game and bring the magic of Dollywood’s Grist Mill to your kitchen.
Achieving the Right Dough Consistency
The key to a tender and soft cinnamon bread lies in achieving the right dough consistency. Ensure that your dough is not too sticky or too dry by carefully measuring your ingredients and monitoring the dough’s texture during the mixing process.
Maximizing Cinnamon-Sugar Flavor
To maximize the cinnamon-sugar flavor, make sure to evenly distribute the cinnamon-sugar mixture throughout the dough. You can achieve this by gently folding the dough to prevent the sugar from settling at the bottom.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Dollywood cinnamon bread, the options are endless. Drizzle the glaze on the warm loaves or serve it on the side for dipping. You can also top it with hot apple butter for an authentic Dollywood experience.
| Serving Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm with Glaze | Drizzle the sweet glaze over the warm bread for a delicious treat. |
| With Apple Butter | Top the bread with hot apple butter for a traditional Dollywood experience. |
| As a Dessert | Serve the bread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. |
Conclusion
Recreating the magic of Dollywood’s cinnamon bread at home is easier than you think, and it’s sure to become a new family tradition. By following the official Dollywood cinnamon bread recipe and our step-by-step guide, you can enjoy this iconic treat whenever you crave it, without having to visit Tennessee.
The combination of soft, fluffy bread layered with generous amounts of butter and cinnamon sugar creates an irresistible treat. As you bake this cinnamon bread, your home will fill with an enticing aroma that might just attract some curious neighbors.
With this recipe, you’ve mastered one of Dollywood’s most beloved treats. It’s perfect for holiday mornings or special brunches, and is sure to become a requested favorite among family and friends. So, go ahead and indulge in the delightful experience of Dollywood cinnamon bread, right in the comfort of your own home.