When it comes to baked goods that evoke warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia, few treats can rival the delightful essence of cinnamon raisin bread. The combination of aromatic cinnamon, plump raisins, and tender, homemade bread creates an irresistible symphony of flavors that captivates both young and old.
Cinnamon raisin bread holds a special place in our hearts and our kitchens. It invites us to slow down, savor the aroma wafting through the air, and indulge in a slice that is both wholesome and indulgent. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, toasted to golden perfection, or transformed into a delightful French toast, this classic bread is a timeless favorite.
In this article, we embark on a journey of cinnamon-spiced bliss, exploring the art of crafting homemade cinnamon raisin bread. We delve into the secrets behind achieving a soft, pillowy texture, the perfect balance of cinnamon sweetness, and the artful distribution of plump raisins throughout the loaf.
Join us as we unravel the steps to create this beloved baked delight, from the initial mixing of the dough to the aromatic baking process that fills your home with mouthwatering scents. We’ll guide you through the intricacies of shaping the dough, ensuring a luscious filling, and achieving a golden-brown crust that tempts the taste buds.
Beyond its tantalizing flavors, cinnamon raisin bread offers versatility in its enjoyment. It makes for a delightful breakfast or brunch option, slathered with butter or cream cheese, or even transformed into delectable sandwiches that harmonize sweet and savory flavors. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker seeking to perfect your cinnamon raisin bread recipe or a novice eager to embark on a new baking adventure, this article will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to create a mouthwatering loaf that will become a cherished addition to your kitchen repertoire.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of kneading dough, and surrender to the enchanting aroma of cinnamon as it mingles with the sweetness of raisins. Let the magic of cinnamon raisin bread transport you to a place of comfort and contentment, where every slice brings joy and a taste of indulgence.
Get ready to embark on a delightful baking journey, as we share the secrets and tips to create a homemade cinnamon raisin bread that will become a treasured favorite for you and your loved ones. Let the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of raisins weave their spell, and allow the joy of baking to fill your home with love and delicious memories.
Read our review of bread machines to learn how to choose the most suitable model for making cinnamon raisin bread. You should also check out this review of a bread maker.
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Here’s a recipe for delicious cinnamon raisin bread:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups raisins
For the filling:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
- Add the warm milk and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle shape, about 16×12 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture and raisins over the buttered dough.
- Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll up the dough jelly-roll style.
- Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, seam side down. Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it reaches the top of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cinnamon raisin bread.
- Slice and enjoy!
You now have a delightful homemade cinnamon bread to enjoy as a breakfast treat or a tasty snack.
TIPS:
Here are some tips to help you make a delicious cinnamon raisin bread:
- Plump the raisins: Before adding the raisins to the dough, you can plump them in hot water or apple juice for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften them and prevent them from drying out during baking.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon: For the best flavor, use freshly ground cinnamon. Ground cinnamon loses its potency over time, so grinding whole cinnamon sticks right before using them will provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
- Incorporate cinnamon in the dough: To enhance the cinnamon flavor throughout the bread, you can add a small amount of ground cinnamon to the dough along with other dry ingredients. This adds an extra layer of cinnamon goodness to every bite.
- Roll the dough tightly: When rolling the dough with the filling, make sure to roll it tightly. This ensures that the filling is evenly distributed throughout the bread and creates beautiful swirls when sliced.
- Properly proof the dough: Ensure that the dough has enough time to rise during both the first and second proofing stages. This allows the flavors to develop, the dough to become light and fluffy, and the raisins to plump up. Be patient and let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
- Adjust the sweetness: The sweetness of the bread can be adjusted according to personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough or the filling. Alternatively, if you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the sugar. Experiment with different levels of sweetness until you find your perfect balance.
- Use a bread pan or shape into a loaf: To achieve a uniform shape and size, consider using a bread pan for baking. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to pinch the seams tightly to prevent the bread from unraveling during baking.
- Cool completely before slicing: Allow the cinnamon raisin bread to cool completely before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and the bread to set, resulting in clean and neat slices.
- Store properly: To maintain freshness, store the cooled cinnamon raisin bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. It is best consumed within a few days, but you can also slice and freeze the bread for longer storage.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking a delicious and fragrant cinnamon raisin bread that’s perfect for enjoying any time of the day. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and aromas!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Here are some common questions and answers about cinnamon raisin bread:
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the bread flour in your cinnamon raisin bread recipe. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour can result in a denser texture compared to bread flour. You may need to adjust the liquid amounts or increase the kneading time to accommodate the difference in flour characteristics.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in most bread recipes, including cinnamon raisin bread. However, keep in mind that instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients without proofing in water. Adjust the amount of instant yeast if necessary, as it is usually used in slightly smaller quantities compared to active dry yeast.
Q: Can I add nuts or other dried fruits to the cinnamon raisin bread?
A: Absolutely! Adding nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds can add a delightful crunch to the bread. You can also include other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for added flavor and texture. Fold them into the dough along with the raisins before shaping the bread.
Q: Can I make cinnamon raisin bread without eggs?
A: Yes, you can make cinnamon raisin bread without eggs by omitting them from the recipe. Eggs contribute to the structure and texture of the bread, so the resulting loaf may be slightly denser without them. You can try adding a little extra liquid, such as milk or water, to compensate for the moisture and binding properties provided by the eggs.
Q: Can I use a bread machine to make cinnamon raisin bread?
A: Yes, most bread machines have a specific setting for making cinnamon raisin bread. Simply follow the instructions provided with your bread machine and add the ingredients according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally, you’ll add the liquid ingredients first, followed by the dry ingredients, and finally the raisins and cinnamon filling.
Q: How should I store cinnamon raisin bread?
A: To keep cinnamon raisin bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. It is best consumed within a few days of baking. If you have leftover bread, you can slice and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage. Thaw the slices as needed.
Q: How can I make cinnamon raisin bread with a soft and tender texture?
A: To achieve a soft and tender texture in your cinnamon raisin bread, you can use bread flour, which has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour. The higher protein helps create a more elastic dough, resulting in a softer texture. Additionally, make sure not to over-knead the dough, as this can lead to a denser texture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, then allow it to rise properly for a light and tender crumb.
Q: Can I make cinnamon raisin bread with a sourdough starter?
A: Yes, you can incorporate a sourdough starter into your cinnamon raisin bread recipe. Sourdough adds complexity and depth of flavor to the bread. You can substitute a portion of the yeast in the recipe with a portion of your active sourdough starter. Adjust the overall hydration and rising time accordingly, as sourdough fermentation may take longer than using commercial yeast.
Q: How can I make sure the cinnamon sugar filling stays inside the bread and doesn’t leak out during baking?
A: To prevent the cinnamon sugar filling from leaking out during baking, make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seams securely. This helps seal the filling inside the bread. You can also gently press the edges of the rolled dough together to further secure the filling. Additionally, avoid overfilling the bread with the cinnamon sugar mixture, as this can increase the likelihood of leakage.
Q: Can I make cinnamon raisin bread using a no-knead method?
A: While the traditional method for making cinnamon raisin bread involves kneading, you can experiment with a no-knead method for convenience. No-knead cinnamon raisin bread typically involves a longer fermentation time and relies on folding the dough instead of intense kneading. It can result in a slightly different texture but can still produce a flavorful and satisfying loaf.
Q: How can I ensure an even distribution of cinnamon and raisins in the bread?
A: To ensure an even distribution of cinnamon and raisins in your bread, make sure to spread the softened butter evenly over the dough when adding the filling. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture and raisins evenly, reaching all the corners. Starting with a tightly rolled dough will also help ensure that the filling is evenly distributed throughout the loaf when sliced.
Q: Can I make mini cinnamon raisin rolls instead of a loaf?
A: Yes, you can shape the cinnamon raisin bread dough into smaller rolls instead of a loaf. After rolling out the dough, spread the filling, sprinkle the raisins, and then roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into smaller pieces, around 1 to 1 ½ inches thick, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake until golden brown and enjoy delicious mini cinnamon raisin rolls.
I hope these common questions and answers provide you with helpful insights as you embark on your cinnamon raisin bread baking journey. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this delightful treat!
Conclusion
In conclusion, cinnamon raisin bread stands as a testament to the timeless allure of homemade baked goods. Its delicate balance of sweet cinnamon, plump raisins, and tender bread creates a symphony of flavors that comforts and delights with every bite.
As you embarked on the journey of crafting your own cinnamon raisin bread, you embraced the artistry of breadmaking, from kneading the dough to achieving the perfect swirls of cinnamon filling. You learned the importance of patience as the dough rose, allowing the flavors to develop and the raisins to infuse their sweetness throughout.
Now, as you savor the fruits of your labor, each slice transports you to a place of warmth and nostalgia. The aroma of cinnamon fills the air, reminding you of cozy mornings and cherished memories. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted to perfection, this homemade treat fills your heart and home with a sense of comfort and indulgence.
Cinnamon raisin bread invites us to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures. It becomes a canvas for culinary creativity, welcoming spreads of butter, cream cheese, or even imaginative sandwiches that harmonize contrasting flavors. Its versatility knows no bounds, adapting to your desires and imagination.
As you share your cinnamon raisin bread with loved ones, you create moments of connection and joy. Whether enjoyed around a breakfast table or given as a heartfelt gift, this homemade treasure brings smiles and a taste of homemade love.
So, let the aroma of cinnamon linger in your kitchen, and the warm memories of homemade delights fill your heart. May every slice of cinnamon raisin bread nourish both body and soul, reminding you of the joys of baking and the simple pleasures found in the art of creation.
Continue to explore the world of baking, embracing new flavors and techniques, but never forgetting the timeless appeal of cinnamon raisin bread. Let its charm become a part of your culinary repertoire, shared with generations to come, and treasured as a testament to the beauty of homemade goodness.
With each batch of cinnamon raisin bread you create, may you find comfort, satisfaction, and the pure delight that comes from sharing homemade treats made with love.
