Why Make This Recipe
If you’ve ever visited Dollywood, you might have been enchanted by the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon bread wafting through the park. Making this Copycat Cinnamon Bread at home will bring that delightful experience right into your kitchen. With its swirls of cinnamon sugar and a creamy glaze, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s quite easy to make!
How to Make Copycat Cinnamon Bread
Ingredients
- 3/4 tsp. active dry yeast
- 1/2 c. warm water (between 110 to 115ºF)
- 1 tbsp. plus a pinch granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 c. bread flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for work surface
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for bowl and pans
- 1/4 c. granulated sugar
- 1/4 c. packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
- 4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 c. confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp. water
Directions
Make the dough: Combine the yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 8 minutes (if it doesn’t foam, discard it and start again). In the bowl of a stand mixer, mix together the flour, salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Knead with the dough hook on medium-low speed until a smooth dough forms, around 5 to 8 minutes. Lightly butter a second bowl, transfer the dough to it, and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Lightly butter two 8-by-4-inch loaf pans and line with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang. Butter the parchment.
Make the topping: In a bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on the bottom and sides of the prepared pans. Set the rest aside.
Make the loaves: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough in half and shape each piece into a 6-by-3-inch rectangle. Place the loaves in the prepared pans and let them rise in a warm place until they are almost doubled in size, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut four score marks into the top of each loaf with a sharp paring knife (they may deflate slightly). Lightly brush melted butter over each loaf and generously sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon-sugar, dividing it evenly. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over each loaf.
Bake until the loaves are golden brown, about 25 to 28 minutes. Let them cool in the pans for 15 minutes. Then use the parchment to lift the loaves out and transfer them to a cooling rack.
Make the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and water. Drizzle the glaze over the warm loaves or serve it on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Copycat Cinnamon Bread
Serve slices of this delicious cinnamon bread warm or at room temperature. It makes a perfect breakfast treat or a sweet snack. Drizzle a bit more glaze on top for an extra special touch!
How to Store Copycat Cinnamon Bread
To store leftover cinnamon bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and then thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Copycat Cinnamon Bread
- Make sure the water temperature is just right for activating the yeast. If it’s too hot, it may kill the yeast.
- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which helps create a nice structure.
- Don’t skip the rising times; they are essential for the dough to develop flavor and texture.
Variation
You can add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a little extra texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different glazes, such as adding some orange zest to the vanilla glaze for a citrusy twist.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can, but bread flour creates a chewier texture and better structure due to its higher protein content.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise after the first proofing, check if the yeast was active. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and that you’re using warm water, not hot.
Can I make this cinnamon bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape it, and then keep it in the refrigerator overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
