Are you craving a taste of the Ozarks? Nothing quite says comfort food like a warm slice of cinnamon bread, and this recipe brings the irresistible charm of Silver Dollar City's famous cinnamon bread right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. It's a delicious and relatively quick homemade treat that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to experience the joy of baking this iconic treat, perfect for any skill level!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and active, crucial for a fluffy bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Don't overmix!
Step 4: Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nuts.
Step 7: Shape and Fill the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
Step 8: Roll and Cut: Tightly roll the dough up from the long side, like a jelly roll. Cut the roll into 1-inch slices.
Step 9: Second Rise: Arrange the slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 10: Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 11: Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a pat of butter and a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular melted butter.
- Add raisins, cranberries, or chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for extra sweetness and texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the amount of brown sugar in the filling.
- To make individual cinnamon rolls, simply grease a muffin tin and place the cut dough slices in each cup.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 4-5g
This Silver Dollar City inspired cinnamon bread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its delicious aroma and delightful taste will transport you to the heart of the Ozarks, even if you're miles away. Enjoy baking and sharing this easy and delicious recipe!