This Cinnamon Bread Recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. With its warm, inviting aroma and sweet cinnamon flavor, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any gathering. The delightful combination of melted butter and cinnamon sugar creates a soft, pull-apart bread reminiscent of the beloved Dollywood treat. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as a cozy evening snack, this cinnamon bread is a true crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich cinnamon sugar coating combined with the buttery bread makes each bite a delicious experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at brunch, as an after-school snack, or during family gatherings—this bread fits right in everywhere.
- Great for Sharing: With three loaves in this recipe, it’s easy to share with friends and family or save some for later.
- Customizable Icing: The icing can be adjusted to your liking; add more milk for a drizzle or less for a thicker spread.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful cinnamon bread recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 9-inch bread pans
- Wide dish (for mixing cinnamon sugar)
- Whisk (for icing)
- Tray (for thawing dough)
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents the bread from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy release after baking.
- 9-inch bread pans: The perfect size for even baking and achieving that ideal loaf shape.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the icing.
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 3 loaves frozen bread dough (Rhodes Bake – N – Serve)
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
- 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. Alternatively, you can thaw them 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 four 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 each loaf completely with melted butter, making sure to coat the inside of each cut very well.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a wide dish.
- Roll each loaf gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Stuff each cut with plenty of cinnamon sugar.
Step 6: Let It Rise
- Place each loaf in its prepared pan and cover with a light tea towel.
- Allow bread to rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about one hour.
Step 7: Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F while the dough rises.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake bread for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- When thumped on the bottom, it should sound hollow.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 9: Prepare Icing
- While cooling, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and two tablespoons of milk using a whisk until smooth.
- Adjust milk as needed for desired consistency.
- Drizzle icing over warm bread before serving!
Enjoy this delightful Cinnamon Bread Recipe that will surely make every occasion sweeter!
How to Serve Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Cinnamon bread is a delicious treat that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoying a slice of warm cinnamon bread alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee elevates the experience. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.
Cream Cheese Spread
- A light layer of cream cheese spread adds a creamy tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon bread. Try mixing in some herbs for an extra twist.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serving warm cinnamon bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful dessert. The contrast between warm and cold is heavenly.
Fresh Fruit
- Pair your cinnamon bread with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for added freshness. The fruity notes enhance the sweetness in the bread.
Whipped Topping
- Lightly dollop some whipped topping on your cinnamon bread to add a fluffy texture. It’s an easy way to make it feel more indulgent.
Drizzled Caramel Sauce
- For those who love richness, drizzle caramel sauce over your cinnamon bread. It adds an extra layer of sweetness that is hard to resist.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Achieving the perfect cinnamon bread requires some attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Thaw Bread Properly: Ensure the frozen dough is fully thawed before cutting and coating, as this helps it rise evenly.
- Use Fresh Spices: Using fresh ground cinnamon will enhance the flavor significantly, making your bread taste even better.
- Don’t Rush Rising Time: Allowing the dough to double in size ensures a fluffy texture, so be patient during this step.
- Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the right temperature for baking uniform loaves.
- Experiment with Icing Consistency: Adjust milk in the icing to find your preferred thickness—thicker icing stays on top better, while thinner seeps into crevices.
- Store Correctly: Keep leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Cinnamon bread can be complemented by several side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits provides refreshing contrast and natural sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with breakfast or brunch.
- Bacon Strips – The salty crunch of bacon creates an excellent balance against the sweet flavors of the bread.
- Oven-Baked Eggs – Serve fluffy, seasoned eggs as a savory counterpart to your sweet cinnamon treat.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle – A light drizzle over slices enhances sweetness and adds another layer of flavor.
- Granola Bars – For those looking for something easy on-the-go, granola bars offer crunch and sweetness alongside your cinnamon delight.
- Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses can bring a savory element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements in cinnamon bread.
- Hot Chocolate – Warm beverages like hot chocolate provide comfort and pair wonderfully with baked goods like this cinnamon treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cinnamon bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final product.
- Skipping thawing time: Not allowing the frozen dough to thaw properly can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure the dough is fully thawed for best results.
- Inadequate butter coating: Failing to coat the bread thoroughly with melted butter will prevent the cinnamon sugar from sticking. Make sure every part of the loaf is well-coated.
- Not enough cinnamon sugar: Underestimating the amount of cinnamon sugar to use can lead to bland flavor. Be generous when rolling and stuffing each cut of bread.
- Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out the bread. Keep an eye on it and remove it when it sounds hollow when thumped.
- Ignoring rising time: Rushing the rising process can result in dense bread. Allow adequate time for the dough to rise until doubled in size.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cinnamon bread in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped loaves in a freezer bag or airtight container; they will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap the bread in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on high for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious cinnamon bread recipe.
What makes this Cinnamon Bread Recipe special?
This recipe replicates the famous Dollywood cinnamon bread, known for its buttery layers and sweet icing that elevates any occasion.
Can I customize my Cinnamon Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours. Experiment with flavors!
How should I serve Cinnamon Bread?
Cinnamon bread is best served warm, drizzled with icing. Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Bread is done?
Your cinnamon bread is ready when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Bread Recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly satisfying and customizable. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins or toppings!
Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Indulge in the warmth and sweetness of this Cinnamon Bread Recipe, a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With its buttery layers coated in cinnamon sugar, this easy-to-make bread is reminiscent of the famous Dollywood version. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening snack, this pull-apart bread is sure to become a family favorite. Each slice is soft and inviting, making it an ideal choice for sharing with loved ones. Top it with a simple icing for an added touch of sweetness and enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your home as it bakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 loaves frozen bread dough (Rhodes Bake – N – Serve)
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 – 3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Thaw frozen dough on a tray at room temperature for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare three 9-inch bread pans with non-stick spray.
- Cut deep slits into each loaf, coat with melted butter, and roll in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Let loaves rise until doubled in size (about one hour).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Combine icing ingredients and drizzle over warm bread before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg








