Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

I have to tell you, the Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe is one of those magical treats that instantly transports me to cozy mornings and sweet memories. It’s not just a bread; it’s a warm hug in pastry form, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with your first coffee of the day. The way that cinnamon sugar melts into the folds of the bread gives it an addictively soft, gooey texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

What really makes this Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe worth trying is how approachable it is—you don’t need to be a bread-making expert to succeed here. Using frozen bread dough cuts down the hassle without sacrificing flavor, so even if you’re short on time or new to baking, this recipe will make you look like a pro. Plus, the sweet glaze on top adds just the right touch of decadence that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe keeps ingredients straightforward so you can focus on technique and flavor. The cinnamon and sugar combo is classic, but pairing it with buttery bread dough makes each pull-apart slice just melt in your mouth. When shopping, I usually reach for good-quality unsalted butter and make sure my frozen bread dough is fresh for optimal rise.

• Cinnamon: Provides that warm, spicy flavor that’s essential for cinnamon sugar goodness.
• Granulated sugar: Mixes with cinnamon to create a classic sweet crust on the bread.
• Frozen bread dough: Saves time but still rises beautifully, giving a soft, fluffy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Brushed generously for rich moisture and to help the cinnamon sugar stick.
• Confectioner’s sugar: For the smooth glaze that adds just the right sweetness and shine.
• Water (for glaze): Helps thin the glaze so you get that perfect drizzle without overpowering the bread.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe my own by playing around with small tweaks. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for a cozy hint of extra spice, or I swap half the water in the glaze for a splash of vanilla extract. Customize it to match your cravings!

• Add Nuts: I once tossed in chopped pecans between layers before baking—extra crunch and nuttiness took it next-level.
• Use Brown Sugar: Substituting some granulated sugar with brown sugar makes the outer crust richer and deeper in flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free glaze options—it still turns out wonderfully soft.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Cinnamon Mixture

Start by spraying an 8 1/2 by 4 1/2 by 2 1/2-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper—this little trick makes removing the bread a breeze. Then, mix your cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish, like a pie plate, so it’s ready when your bread is prepared. Getting these prep steps done early keeps the process flowing smoothly.

Step 2: Cut the Slits for That Famous Pull-Apart Look

Take your thawed bread dough and carefully make four deep horizontal slits across the top. This is key to giving your bread that signature Dollywood pull-apart texture, allowing those cinnamon sugar pockets to form beautifully. I like to use a sharp bread knife and apply steady pressure to avoid squishing the dough.

Step 3: Butter and Cinnamon Sugar Magic

Brush the entire loaf generously with melted butter, making sure to get the butter into all the slits and sides. I even dip the bread right into the butter for extra coverage—don’t be shy here! Then, roll the loaf right in your cinnamon sugar mixture so it settles into every nook and cranny. This step creates those addictive sweet pockets that make each pull-apart piece irresistible.

Step 4: Rise and Bake

Pop the cinnamon-loaf into your prepared pan and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes—this helps the bread get fluffy and tender. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until the top looks golden brown and smells amazing. A great tip: if it browns too fast, tent with foil to avoid burning.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve Warm

Mix confectioner’s sugar with a little water until silky smooth to create your glaze. Once your bread cools slightly on a wire rack, drizzle the glaze generously while it’s still warm so it seeps into all those crevices. Feel free to add a second drizzle after it cools to amp up the sweet factor. This glaze finish is what pulls the whole Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe experience together in the best way.

How to Serve Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I tend to keep garnishes simple because the bread is already so flavorful, but a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the glaze adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness. Sometimes I add a dusting of extra cinnamon for that cinnamon-lovers punch. Fresh berries on the side brighten up the whole plate and add a fresh bite.

Side Dishes

This bread is amazing alongside a dollop of cream cheese or whipped butter spread, but my favorite is pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea on the side. You could also enjoy it with fresh fruit or even a simple bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this bread in a rustic basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin for a charming touch. I’ve also arranged it on a wooden cutting board with small bowls of glaze dipping sauce, nuts, and fresh fruit for an interactive experience. Gold or festive ribbons tied around the loaf make it a delightful gift, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature, and it usually stays fresh for 2 to 3 days. To keep it from drying out, I recommend warming slices briefly before serving to restore that soft, buttery feel.

Freezing

If I want to keep it longer, I slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, when cravings hit, I can pull out a few slices and toast them straight from the freezer without any fuss.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop slices into a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the edges. You can even add a little extra glaze or butter on top after warming for an extra special treat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Dollywood Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s so easy to whip up, yet delivers a bakery-worthy treat every time. Whether you’re serving it for weekend brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or an unexpected guest, it feels like a little celebration. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love pulling apart those soft, cinnamon-sugary pieces as much as I do!

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