This Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and comforting flavors. The golden, soft texture contrasts beautifully with the rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and the chewiness of the raisins, making each slice absolutely irresistible.
Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or as part of a festive brunch, this bread promises to become a household favorite. It’s easy to make, and the delightful aroma while baking fills your kitchen with warmth. This recipe is sure to impress anyone who tastes it, whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a little butter.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups warm milk
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 tablespoons active dry yeast
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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2 eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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1 cup raisins
Directions:
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In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
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In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture once it’s foamy.
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Gradually add flour, salt, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
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Once the dough is kneaded, add raisins and fold them into the dough. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a loaf and place them in greased bread pans.
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Let the dough rise for an additional 30 minutes before baking.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Cinnamon Raisin Bread is more than just a comforting breakfast treat it’s a timeless classic that has been loved by generations. This warm, soft, and slightly sweet bread is an ideal pairing with morning coffee, afternoon tea, or even as a snack before bed. The delightful aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen as the bread bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But what makes this bread so special? Let’s explore the origins, why it’s such a popular choice, and how you can enjoy it.
The Origins of Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon Raisin Bread has a long and rich history in many cultures. It belongs to the larger family of “sweet breads,” which have been made for centuries across the world. The combination of cinnamon and raisins in bread likely emerged in Europe, where cinnamon was a prized spice, imported from Asia, and raisins were a common ingredient in baked goods. Over time, different cultures adapted this bread, making it a staple in homes everywhere.
Though there’s no clear-cut history, many trace the cinnamon raisin bread’s rise to popularity in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially when home baking became more common with the advent of modern kitchens and ovens. The sweetness of the raisins combined with the spice of cinnamon quickly became a beloved flavor profile, and it’s remained a household favorite ever since.
Why Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a Must-Try
There are countless reasons to love Cinnamon Raisin Bread. Here are just a few:
1. Comfort Food at Its Best
Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a quintessential comfort food. It offers a warm, soft texture and a delightful sweetness that immediately makes you feel at home. Whether you’re curling up with a hot drink on a chilly day or preparing a cozy breakfast for the family, this bread brings a sense of warmth and familiarity.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion
This bread isn’t just for breakfast. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack, a dessert, or even as part of a festive spread. Serve it warm with butter or jam, or enjoy it plain—it’s perfect for any occasion. And because it can be sliced thick or thin, it’s great for making French toast, sandwiches, or even as a base for bread pudding.
3. Ideal for the Whole Family
Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a crowd-pleaser. Kids love the sweet flavor and chewy texture, while adults appreciate its comforting qualities. You can slice it thin for a light snack or enjoy it in thicker pieces for a hearty breakfast. It’s a great choice for family gatherings, brunches, or just an everyday treat.
4. Loaded with Nutrients
While this bread is undeniably indulgent, it also has some health benefits. The raisins provide a natural sweetness while offering a good source of fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Additionally, cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential blood sugar-regulating effects. When you enjoy this bread in moderation, you’re getting both a satisfying treat and a little nutritional boost.
The Baking Process: A Labor of Love
Baking Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a rewarding experience. The process may take a bit of time, but the results are absolutely worth it. One of the key steps in making this bread is allowing the dough to rise. This gives the bread its light, fluffy texture and allows the flavors to develop fully. The yeast in the dough also helps to bring out the sweetness of the raisins, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
The bread dough itself is soft and slightly sticky, so it requires some patience and careful handling. Kneading the dough by hand or with a stand mixer helps to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its wonderful chewy texture. Once the dough has risen, it’s time to add the raisins, folding them into the dough so they’re evenly distributed throughout. After baking, you’ll be left with a loaf that has a golden-brown crust and a soft, tender interior, with pockets of sweet, plump raisins.
How to Serve Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon Raisin Bread is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy it. Here are some ideas:
1. With Butter and Jam
The simplest way to enjoy cinnamon raisin bread is with a little butter. Spread it on warm slices to allow the butter to melt into the bread. You can also add a dollop of your favorite jam for an extra burst of sweetness. Strawberry, raspberry, or orange marmalade all pair wonderfully with this bread.
2. As French Toast
Turn your cinnamon raisin bread into French toast for a decadent breakfast or brunch. Slice the bread into thick pieces, dip it into a beaten egg mixture, and cook it in a hot skillet. Top with fresh berries, syrup, or powdered sugar for a treat that’s sure to impress.
3. With Cream Cheese
For a richer option, spread cream cheese on your cinnamon raisin bread. You can even make a simple cinnamon cream cheese spread by mixing cream cheese with a little cinnamon and powdered sugar. This combination is perfect for snacking or as an afternoon treat.
4. As Part of a Brunch Spread
Slice your cinnamon raisin bread and add it to a brunch spread alongside other baked goods like muffins, croissants, or scones. It’s an excellent complement to eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Raisin Bread
To ensure your Cinnamon Raisin Bread turns out perfect every time, here are a few tips:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Yeast is the key ingredient in this bread, so make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam up when mixed with the warm milk, it might be old or inactive, and you’ll need to replace it.
- Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Give your dough plenty of time to rise. This is an essential step in achieving the light, airy texture of the bread. If you rush it, your bread might turn out dense and heavy.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. Cold ingredients can affect how the dough comes together and how the bread bakes.
- Add Extra Cinnamon: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a little extra to the dough or sprinkle some on top of the bread before baking for an even more intense flavor.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon Raisin Bread
While this bread is definitely a treat, it also comes with a few health benefits. Here are some of the positive attributes of cinnamon raisin bread:
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon also helps with blood sugar regulation, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. It also has antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
- Raisins: Raisins are packed with fiber, which helps to promote digestion and keep you feeling fuller longer. They also provide important minerals like iron and potassium, which support healthy blood and heart function.
- Whole Wheat Option: For a slightly healthier alternative, you can make this bread with whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will add more fiber and nutrients to the bread, making it a more filling option.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Raisin Bread is more than just a delicious treat it’s a comforting, versatile, and surprisingly nutritious option for breakfast, snacks, and dessert. The balance of sweet raisins and aromatic cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s loved by all ages. Whether you bake it for yourself or share it with loved ones, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s simple to make, and the result is always a warm, satisfying loaf that will fill your kitchen with the irresistible smell of freshly baked bread.
So, roll up your sleeves and start baking this Cinnamon Raisin Bread is an easy, rewarding recipe that’s bound to impress.