This Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a delightful treat that will fill your home with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or as a sweet snack, this bread is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Topped with a sweet icing, it’s reminiscent of the famous Cinnamon Bread at Dollywood, making it an ideal addition to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm for breakfast, as a dessert, or even as a special treat for guests.
- Perfect for Sharing: With three loaves made from this recipe, there’s plenty to share with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is key. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 9-inch bread pans
- Wide dish for mixing cinnamon sugar
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick cooking spray: Ensures your bread releases easily from the pan after baking.
- 9-inch bread pans: The perfect size for achieving that ideal loaf shape and texture.
- Wide dish: Allows easy rolling of the dough in the cinnamon-sugar mixture without making a mess.
Ingredients
This bread is just like the famous Cinnamon Bread at Dollywood. Coated with melted butter and rolled in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, this bread is served warm topped with a sweet icing.
For the Dough
- 3 loaves frozen bread dough (Rhodes Bake – N – Serve)
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 – 3 tablespoons milk
How to Make Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Thaw the Dough
- Place frozen loaves on a tray and thaw at room temperature. This may take 3 to 4 hours. You can also thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Pans
- Spray 9-inch bread pans with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 3: Cut the Loaves
- Cut 4 deep cuts into each loaf of bread, nearly all the way through, leaving just a small piece still connected at the bottom.
Step 4: Coat with Butter
- Coat bread completely with melted butter, ensuring to coat the inside of each cut very well.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar
- Mix sugar and cinnamon together in a wide dish.
- Roll the bread gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Stuff each cut with lots of cinnamon sugar.
Step 6: Let it Rise
- Place a loaf of bread in each pan.
- Cover with a light tea towel.
- Allow bread to rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
- Bake bread for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- When thumped on the bottom, it should sound hollow.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 9: Make the Icing
- While cooling, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth; add extra milk as needed until reaching desired consistency.
- Drizzle icing on top of warm bread before serving!
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Bread, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Cinnamon bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re having it as a breakfast item or a dessert, there are numerous options to enhance its flavor and presentation.
Toasted with Butter
- Spread a thin layer of butter on warm slices for an extra rich taste. The butter melts into the bread, enhancing its sweetness.
With Cream Cheese Spread
- Pair your cinnamon bread with a creamy spread made from softened cream cheese. This adds a tangy twist that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Topped with Fresh Fruits
- Add sliced bananas or strawberries on top for a fresh, fruity touch. The natural sweetness of the fruit complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Served with Ice Cream
- For a decadent dessert, serve warm cinnamon bread topped with vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm bread and cold ice cream is simply irresistible.
Dusted with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the appearance and sweetness of your cinnamon bread. It makes for an elegant presentation.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Bread Recipe
To ensure your cinnamon bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Thaw Completely: Make sure the frozen dough is fully thawed before use. This allows it to rise properly and achieve the desired texture.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and quality butter make a significant difference in flavor. Invest in good ingredients for the best taste.
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Monitor Rising Time: Letting the bread rise until it doubles in size is crucial for lightness. Don’t rush this step!
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Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions for perfect results.
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Cool Before Icing: Allow your bread to cool slightly before drizzling icing on top. This prevents it from melting away too quickly and creates a beautiful finish.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Cinnamon bread pairs well with various side dishes, making it versatile for different occasions. Here are some great options:
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing complement that adds a healthy touch.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness to your meal while balancing the sweetness of the bread.
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Scrambled Eggs: Pairing cinnamon bread with fluffy scrambled eggs offers a satisfying balance between sweet and savory.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A simple drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness and add another layer of flavor.
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Oatmeal: Serve alongside warm oatmeal topped with nuts and fruit for a hearty breakfast option.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of coffee or tea complements cinnamon bread beautifully, making it ideal for brunch or afternoon snack time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect cinnamon bread can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Thawing Process: Make sure you fully thaw your frozen dough before using it. Thawing allows for proper rising and texture.
- Not Coating with Enough Butter: Don’t skimp on the melted butter! Ensure each loaf is generously coated, particularly inside the cuts, for maximum flavor.
- Inadequate Cinnamon Sugar Mixing: Mix your cinnamon and sugar thoroughly before rolling the bread. An even distribution ensures every bite is deliciously sweet.
- Ignoring Rising Time: Allow the bread to rise until it doubles in size. This crucial step affects the fluffiness of your final product.
- Overbaking or Underbaking: Keep an eye on your loaves while they bake. They should be golden brown and sound hollow when thumped for perfect doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cinnamon bread in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Freezing Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Wrap each loaf tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds at a time until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this cinnamon bread recipe:
How can I customize my Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips to enhance the flavor. Consider experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom as well.
What should I serve with Cinnamon Bread?
Cinnamon bread pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or milk. It also makes a delightful addition to brunch tables alongside fresh fruits.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk in the icing for a delicious vegan version.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when thumped on the bottom. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I use homemade dough instead of frozen?
Absolutely! You can make your own dough from scratch if you prefer. Just ensure it’s well-risen before proceeding with the recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a delightful treat that will impress family and friends alike. Its warm, sweet aroma paired with a creamy icing makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions, making it uniquely yours!
Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade Cinnamon Bread, a delightful treat that will fill your home with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or as a cozy snack, this easy-to-make bread is reminiscent of the famous Dollywood-style cinnamon loaf. Coated in melted butter and rolled in a sugary cinnamon mixture, each slice is topped with a luscious icing that elevates its flavor. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this cinnamon bread is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 3 loaves frozen bread dough
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup ground cinnamon
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk (for icing)
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen dough at room temperature for 3 to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare three 9-inch bread pans with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut each loaf of thawed dough into four deep slices without detaching them fully.
- Coat each loaf generously with melted butter, ensuring you get it into the cuts.
- Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a wide dish and roll the loaves in this mixture, stuffing each cut well.
- Place the loaves in prepared pans, cover with a tea towel, and let them rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to create a smooth icing. Drizzle over warm bread before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider folding in nuts or dried fruit into the dough before baking. To make it vegan-friendly, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk for the icing.