Raisin Quick Bread Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Nutritious

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you start, gather all your ingredients to make your Raisin Quick Bread:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• 1/3 cup of melted unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of raisins

Preparation Steps

Here's how you can whip up this quick and delightful bread:

Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a standard 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

Begin by sifting together:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

📝 Note: Sifting helps to aerate the flour, making the bread lighter.

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/3 cup melted butter (cooled slightly)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2. Stir in the raisins. Soaking the raisins in hot water for 10 minutes can rehydrate them, but it's optional.

Blend and Bake

Now for the fun part:

1. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread from becoming tough.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
3. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

🕒 Note: Oven times can vary; start checking at 50 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook.

Cooling and Serving

After baking:

• Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
• Remove from pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Variations and Add-Ins

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider these variations:

• Nutty Raisin Bread: Add ¹⁄₂ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Citrus Burst: Include the zest of one orange or lemon.
• Spiced Raisin Bread: Add ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Storing Your Raisin Bread

To keep your bread fresh:

• Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag; it will last up to 3 months.

In creating this Raisin Quick Bread, we’ve explored how a few simple ingredients can come together to make a delicious, aromatic bread. This recipe not only promises ease and convenience but also delivers on flavor and nutrition. The added raisins provide a delightful chewiness and natural sweetness, making this bread a perfect snack, breakfast, or accompaniment to meals. Remember, this bread is versatile; you can adjust ingredients for dietary needs or to explore new flavors. The joy of baking this Raisin Quick Bread lies in its simplicity and the satisfaction of sharing something homemade.

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

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Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but you might need to adjust the liquids slightly as whole wheat absorbs more moisture.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

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Absolutely. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to sour the milk.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

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Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum to achieve a similar texture.