5 Delicious Raisin Bread Recipes to Try Today

Raisin bread, with its delightful blend of sweetness and warmth, is a beloved treat around the globe. Whether it's for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or a comforting dessert, there's something universally appealing about the chewy texture of raisins combined with soft, flavorful bread. Here, we're diving into 5 delicious raisin bread recipes that you can try today, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and rich history.

The Classic Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Starting with a classic, cinnamon raisin bread is a timeless recipe known for its simplicity and the heartwarming aroma it fills your home with while baking. Here’s how to make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¹⁄₂ cup sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ¹⁄₂ cup melted butter
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• Method:
  • Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Add warm milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
  • Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour.
  • Roll out the dough, spread a mixture of butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then sprinkle raisins.
  • Roll it up, seal the edges, and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes.

🍞 Note: Ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly with warm milk for the best rise.

Whole Wheat Raisin Bread

For those who prefer a healthier option, whole wheat raisin bread brings in the nutty flavor of whole grains. Here’s how to prepare it:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¹⁄₂ cup honey
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ cups warm water
  • 1 cup raisins
  • ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• Method:
  • Combine yeast, water, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit until foamy.
  • Add flours, honey, salt, and raisins to the yeast mixture. Mix to form a dough.
  • Knead for about 10 minutes.
  • Let it rise for 1.5 hours.
  • Shape into a loaf, let rise again for 1 hour.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.

🌾 Note: Whole wheat flour requires more liquid than all-purpose flour; adjust water if the dough seems too dry.

Chocolate Chip Raisin Bread

Add a twist to your raisin bread with the inclusion of chocolate chips for a dessert-like experience. Here’s the recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups bread flour
  • ¹⁄₃ cup sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1 ¹⁄₄ cups warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ¹⁄₂ cup raisins
  • ¹⁄₂ cup chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Method:
  • Combine yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Let it sit until frothy.
  • Add flour, butter, cinnamon, raisins, and chocolate chips to the yeast mixture. Knead well.
  • Let the dough rise for about an hour.
  • Shape, let rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes.

No-Knead Raisin Bread

For those looking to make raisin bread with minimal effort, here’s a no-knead recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons salt
  • ¹⁄₄ teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ cups warm water
  • ¹⁄₃ cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Method:
  • Mix all dry ingredients together.
  • Add warm water and honey, stir until blended.
  • Fold in the raisins.
  • Cover and let sit for 12-18 hours.
  • Shape and let rise for 2 hours.
  • Bake in a preheated Dutch oven at 450°F (232°C) for 45 minutes with the lid on, then 15 minutes without.

Raisin Walnut Bread

For a texture and flavor twist, incorporate walnuts:

• Ingredients:
  • 3 ¹⁄₂ cups bread flour
  • ¹⁄₄ cup sugar
  • 1 packet yeast
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¹⁄₂ cup raisins
  • ¹⁄₂ cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Method:
  • Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water, let sit.
  • Add flour, oil, raisins, walnuts, and cinnamon. Mix until dough forms.
  • Let rise for 1-1.5 hours.
  • Shape into loaf, let rise for another hour.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.

From classic cinnamon raisin bread to an adventurous no-knead loaf, these recipes offer something for every level of home baker. Raisin bread not only tastes wonderful but also carries a rich cultural significance, often associated with traditions of warmth, comfort, and family gatherings. Enjoy these variations that not only diversify your baking skills but also bring a bit of that comforting goodness into your home. Each recipe carries the potential to become a new favorite, whether for a quiet morning or a shared festive occasion.

What’s the best way to store raisin bread?

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Store raisin bread in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices with parchment paper between them for easy access.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of raisins?

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Yes, dried cranberries can substitute for raisins in any of these recipes. Keep in mind they are slightly tart, so adjust the sugar accordingly if you prefer a sweeter bread.

Is raisin bread healthy?

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Raisin bread can be part of a healthy diet, especially when made with whole grains. It provides fiber and vitamins from raisins. However, moderation is key due to its sugar content, especially in recipes with added sweeteners.