Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

If happiness had a smell, I’m convinced it would be warm cinnamon bread fresh out of the oven. Sweet, buttery, and swirled with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar topping, this recipe is pure comfort in loaf form. Inspired by the famous Dollywood treat, it’s the kind of bake that draws everyone into the kitchen the moment the aroma hits the air. Each slice pulls apart in soft, pillowy layers, coated in caramelized cinnamon sugar and dripping with buttery goodness. Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat.

So, why will you love this recipe? Let’s dive in.

Recipe Origin

Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s legendary theme park in Tennessee, has become famous for many things—but the cinnamon bread is one of the most iconic. Visitors line up for this sweet, pull-apart loaf, often described as the best thing you’ll eat in the park. The magic lies in its simplicity: soft, homemade bread layered with butter, sugar, and cinnamon, baked until golden and fragrant. My version brings that fairground magic into your own kitchen so you can enjoy a little piece of Dollywood at home.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Clean kitchen towel
• Loaf pan
• Pastry brush

Why You’ll Love Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

Pull-Apart Perfection

Each slice is soft, fluffy, and drenched in buttery cinnamon-sugar layers you can peel apart with your fingers.

Cozy and Comforting

The smell of this bread baking is enough to make your whole house feel like home. It’s warm, sweet, and nostalgic all at once.

Simple Ingredients

Made with pantry basics—flour, butter, sugar, yeast—you don’t need anything fancy to whip this up.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat

Serve it at brunch, as a snack, or for dessert, and watch it disappear. Everyone loves this bread.

A Touch of Dollywood Magic

Even if you can’t make the trip to Tennessee, you can recreate that famous park treat right in your own kitchen.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Activate the yeast properly. Use warm (not hot) water with a pinch of sugar—it should foam within 5–10 minutes.
• Don’t rush the rise. Give the dough time to double in size; that’s what makes the bread fluffy.
• Layer generously. Don’t skimp on the butter and cinnamon sugar—this is what makes each bite indulgent.
• Use a loaf pan. It helps the bread bake evenly and keeps that classic shape.
• Cool slightly before slicing. The bread needs a few minutes to set before you pull it apart.

Ingredients in Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Yeast

The key to making the dough rise and become fluffy.

Sugar

Used both to activate the yeast and to sweeten the topping.

Bread Flour

Gives the dough structure and chewiness while staying tender.

Butter

Adds richness to both the dough and the topping, keeping everything soft and flavorful.

Warm Water

Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.

Brown Sugar

Brings a caramel-like sweetness to the topping.

Corn Syrup or Agave Syrup

Helps the topping stay sticky, glossy, and perfectly caramelized.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine yeast, a pinch of sugar, and warm water. Let sit until foamy. Add bread flour and butter, mixing until a dough forms. Knead by hand (or with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Cover with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Prepare the Topping

Mix brown sugar, white sugar, melted butter, and syrup until combined.

Shape the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.

Add the Topping

Brush the dough generously with the topping mixture, letting it drip into the crevices.

Second Rise

Let the dough rise again in the loaf pan until puffy, about 30 minutes.

Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and baked through.

Cool and Serve

Let cool slightly before pulling apart and enjoying warm, sticky slices of cinnamon bliss.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8–10 slices
Calories per serving: ~210
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Bread

• Fresh from the oven: Best enjoyed warm, when the topping is still gooey.
• With coffee or tea: Perfect as a sweet breakfast or afternoon treat.
• As dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for ultimate indulgence.
• Holiday table: A festive addition to brunch or holiday gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving to revive the gooey topping.
• Freeze baked bread (without topping) for up to 2 months. Reheat and brush with fresh topping before serving.

Variations to Try

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the topping.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle with cream cheese icing instead of the syrup topping.
• Apple Cinnamon Twist: Add finely chopped apples into the dough for a fruity surprise.
• Chocolate Version: Mix mini chocolate chips into the topping for a sweeter spin.

Additional Tips

• For extra pull-apart layers, score or cut shallow slits across the dough before adding the topping.
• Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for the best structure.
• Brush extra butter on top after baking for a glossy finish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
A1: Yes, but the texture will be slightly less chewy.

Q2: How do I know if my yeast is active?
A2: It should foam up within 5–10 minutes of mixing with warm water and sugar.

Q3: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
A3: Yes! Let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temp before shaping and baking.

Q4: Do I have to use corn syrup?
A4: No, agave syrup works beautifully, or you can skip it for a less sticky topping.

Q5: How can I make the topping thicker?
A5: Use a little less melted butter and more sugar for a crunchier finish.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely—just use two loaf pans.

Q7: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
A7: Yes, just mix it directly with the flour instead of blooming it in water.

Q8: Can I make this in a bread machine?
A8: You can use a bread machine for the dough, but bake in the oven for the best topping.

Q9: Can I add cinnamon into the dough itself?
A9: Definitely—it’ll make the whole loaf even more fragrant.

Q10: How do I reheat leftovers?
A10: Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds or warm the whole loaf in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Dollywood Cinnamon Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. The buttery layers, gooey cinnamon-sugar topping, and sweet aroma make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re recreating the theme park classic or simply looking for a cozy bake to share with family, this bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead—mix up that dough, spread on the cinnamon

Print