Delightful Cinnamon-Raisin Bread 🍞🍇

This mouthwatering cinnamon-raisin bread is a warm and comforting treat perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The combination of sweet raisins and fragrant cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma as it bakes, making your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery. Slice it warm and slather with a bit of butter for an extra indulgence!

Ingredients

For the 1.5-pound loaf

• 1 and ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons softened butter or margarine
• 3 and ¼ cups bread flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 and ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup raisins

For the 2-pound loaf

• 1 and ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons softened butter or margarine
• 4 cups bread flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 and ¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 and ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup raisins

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until bubbly.

🕒 This step is essential as it activates the yeast, leading to a delightful rise in your bread!

2. Add the softened butter, sugar, salt, and cinnamon to the yeast mixture and stir until combined.

3. Gradually add the bread flour, mixing until a dough begins to form.

4. Incorporate the raisins and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

🌡️ A great tip: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off. This will create a warm environment for your dough to rise perfectly!

6. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. Allow it to rise again for about 30–45 minutes.

7. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Tips & Variations

• Add nuts: Consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch! 🥜
• More spice: Enhance the flavors by adding a dash of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon mixture.
• Sweet glaze: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over the loaf for an extra sweet touch. 🍯
• Storing: This bread can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days, or freeze it wrapped tightly for up to three months!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cinnamon-raisin bread sliced, warm, and topped with a pat of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Perfect for sharing at breakfast gatherings or family brunches! ☕

Enjoy the delightful aroma and warm flavors while savoring each slice!