Dollywood Has the Best Cinnamon Bread in America

🛒 Ingredients (Check Off As You Measure)

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 tsp salt
• For the filling: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the yeast mixture, remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Add flour and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinching the seam to seal. Cut into 12 even slices and arrange in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and the center reaches 190°F. Let cool slightly before serving warm.