Name: Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup raisins; 1 cup hot water; 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/3 cup warm water; 3/4 cup warm milk; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt; 2 tablespoons butter (softened); 3 cups bread flour (may need another 1/2 cup flour see note*); 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon cold water

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh-baked bread filling your home, and when it’s Cinnamon Raisin Bread, that magic multiplies. I still remember the first time I baked this delightful loaf. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and the leaves were just starting to turn golden. I decided to bring a little warmth into my kitchen, so I pulled out my old recipe book. As I combined the ingredients, the smell of sweet cinnamon and the soft plumpness of raisins transported me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She always had a way of making every holiday special with her homemade bread, and this recipe is my tribute to her legacy.

As the dough kneaded softly in my mixer, I could hardly wait to see how it would turn out. Each step was infused with joy and anticipation, and soon enough, I was left with a beautiful loaf, golden brown and inviting. The best part? Slicing into it to reveal the tender, warm interior filled with sweet raisins and a hint of spice from the cinnamon. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy breakfast or as a delightful treat during tea time, Cinnamon Raisin Bread is sure to bring smiles to all who taste it. Trust me, you’ll want to make this bread a regular in your kitchen!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
3 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

Why We Love This Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Bread

There are countless reasons to adore Cinnamon Raisin Bread, and here are just a few that stand out to me:

1. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a leisurely weekend breakfast or a festive gathering, this bread fits right in. The sweet aroma wafting through the house creates a warm ambiance, making it perfect for family moments or special occasions.

2. A Delicious Way to Start Your Day

Imagine cutting a warm slice of Cinnamon Raisin Bread and spreading a little butter on it. The soft texture combined with the sweet raisins and cinnamon makes it a delightful morning treat that will get your day off to a great start.

3. Versatile for Any Meal

This recipe isn’t just for breakfast! You can enjoy it as a snack throughout the day or even as a dessert. It’s excellent toasted with a drizzle of honey or served with a dollop of cream cheese.

4. Homemade Goodness

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own bread. Making Cinnamon Raisin Bread from scratch gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to create a wholesome loaf that suits your taste perfectly.

5. A Heartwarming Gift

What better gift than a warm loaf of homemade bread? Sharing this Cinnamon Raisin Bread with friends and loved ones is a heartfelt gesture that they’ll surely appreciate.

Ingredients Overview for Cinnamon Raisin Bread

The ingredients for Cinnamon Raisin Bread are simple yet work beautifully together. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect loaf. The raisins add a natural sweetness, while the cinnamon brings warmth and spice, making every bite a delight.

1/2 cup raisins: The star of the show, providing sweetness and texture.
1 cup hot water: This is used to plump the raisins before adding them to the dough.
2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
1/3 cup warm water: Helps activate the yeast.
3/4 cup warm milk: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
1/2 cup rolled oats: Provides texture and a wholesome bite.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Gives the bread its signature taste and aroma.
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
3 cups bread flour: The base of the dough; may require more depending on humidity.
1 large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
1 tablespoon cold water: Used for the egg wash to give the bread a lovely sheen.

Cooking Instructions for Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Baking Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a rewarding experience that’s easier than you might think. Just follow these steps and enjoy the process!

Start by placing the raisins in a small bowl and covering them with hot water. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to plump up. This step is key to ensuring your raisins are soft and juicy in the finished bread.
After the raisins have soaked, drain them and toss with a little flour to absorb any excess moisture. Set them aside for later.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, a teaspoon of brown sugar, and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 4 to 5 minutes until foamy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Once the yeast is foamy, add the warm milk, rolled oats, the rest of the brown sugar, cinnamon, sea salt, butter, and bread flour to the mixing bowl. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute until just combined.
Then, add the plumped raisins and continue kneading the dough on low speed with a dough hook for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want a smooth, slightly tacky dough. If the dough seems too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a little more flour.
Once your dough is ready, place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm place and let it rise until doubled in size, roughly 1 hour. This is the fun part, watching it grow!
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and shape it into a rectangle. Place it into a lightly greased 8 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ loaf pan. Cover it again and let it rise until it looks pillowy and mounded, about 1 more hour. Preheat your oven to 350°F as this rising finishes up.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and cold water to create an egg wash. Brush the top of the loaf with this mixture for that beautiful golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with a piece of tin foil.
Once baked, take the bread out and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove the loaf from the pan and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. You can also freeze baked loaves for up to three months in an airtight container.

Things Worth Knowing

Measuring Flour: The amount of flour needed can vary based on humidity. If the dough feels too sticky during kneading, don’t hesitate to add more.
Raising Dough: A warm, draft-free place is ideal for letting the dough rise. You can even turn your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes and then turn it off, placing the dough inside.
Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the texture and prevents it from crumbling.
Ingredient Temperature: Using room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and milk, can help achieve a smoother dough.

Recipe Variations about Cinnamon Raisin Bread

While the classic Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a favorite, there are so many fun ways to put your spin on it!

Add Nuts: Consider mixing in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch!
Different Dried Fruits: Feel free to swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or apricots for a new flavor profile.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to elevate the flavor even more.
Make it Swirly: For a visually stunning bread, swirl in some cinnamon sugar mixture before baking.
Storage: Keep leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: Slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months; it’s perfect for easy toasting any time!
Pairing: This bread pairs beautifully with cream cheese, butter, or your favorite jelly.

Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Raisin Bread

When it comes to serving Cinnamon Raisin Bread, the options are endless! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this scrumptious loaf:

Breakfast Delight: Serve warm slices topped with cream cheese or butter for a decadent breakfast treat.
Snack Time: Enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea or coffee. It’s a perfect pick-me-up!
Brunch Favorite: Make it a part of your brunch spread with fruits, yogurt, and pastries.
Fancy Toast: Toast slices and drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a gourmet touch.
Holiday Treat: During holidays, slice it up and serve it alongside your festive table for a sweet addition.
Storage Options: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly and store at room temperature or freeze for later enjoyment.

FAQ

There are many delicious options to pair with Cinnamon Raisin Bread. You can serve it with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the raisins and cinnamon. It also goes wonderfully with breakfast items such as eggs or fruit. Some people love toasting it and drizzling it with honey or maple syrup for a delightful afternoon snack. Additionally, it can be served alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings or cozy evenings.

Absolutely! Cinnamon Raisin Bread freezes very well. To freeze it, allow the loaf to cool completely after baking, then slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you want! It will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply toast the slices or let them thaw at room temperature for a delightful snack.

To check if your Cinnamon Raisin Bread is done baking, look for a golden-brown crust. You can also perform the ‘tap test’: gently tap the bottom of the loaf, and if it sounds hollow, it’s ready. Another great indicator is using a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked. If you find that the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the remainder of the baking time. These methods will ensure you have a perfectly baked loaf of bread!

Yes, you can definitely modify the ingredients of Cinnamon Raisin Bread to suit your taste! For instance, you can substitute some of the raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different flavor twist. If you prefer a nuttier texture, consider adding in some chopped walnuts or pecans. Additionally, you can experiment with spices—add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. Just keep in mind that altering the ingredients might slightly change the texture and taste of the final product.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Raisin Bread is truly a standout recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to any kitchen. With its delightful flavor and comforting aroma, it’s always a hit whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to give it a try—once you experience the joy of baking and the deliciousness of fresh bread, you’ll be hooked! So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s bring some homemade goodness into your life!