Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.

Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

Active dry yeast: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Ground cinnamon: Provides the warm, spicy flavor characteristic of this bread.

Raisins: Adds sweetness and texture to the bread.

Melted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.

When incorporating raisins into the dough, ensure they are evenly distributed to avoid clumping. To achieve this, lightly coat the raisins with a bit of flour before folding them into the dough. This helps them integrate more smoothly and prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

• All-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the bread healthier.

• Warm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar texture and moisture.

• Active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients and does not need to be activated in warm liquid.

• Sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the bread.

• Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the bread.

• Ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a richer flavor profile.

• Raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a tartness that complements the sweetness of the bread.

• Melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that provides a subtle coconut flavor and similar moisture.

• Allow the cinnamon raisin bread to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure there are no gaps to keep the bread fresh.
• For short-term storage, place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To extend the freshness, store the bread in the refrigerator. This can keep the bread fresh for up to a week. Make sure it is still wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.
• For freezing, slice the bread first. This allows you to take out only the amount you need without defrosting the entire loaf.
• Wrap each slice or the entire loaf in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• Freeze the bread for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer for a quick and delicious treat.

• Oven Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the cinnamon raisin bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. For a crispy crust, open the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of heating.

• Toaster Method

  1. Slice the cinnamon raisin bread into even pieces.
  2. Place the slices in a toaster or toaster oven.
  3. Toast on a medium setting until the bread is warm and slightly crispy.
  4. For extra flavor, spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on top before serving.

• Microwave Method

  1. Place a slice of cinnamon raisin bread on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the bread with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check the bread; if it’s not warm enough, continue heating in 10-second intervals.

• Stovetop Method

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Lightly butter both sides of the cinnamon raisin bread slices.
  3. Place the slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.
  4. Serve immediately with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

• Air Fryer Method

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the cinnamon raisin bread slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don’t overcook.
  4. Remove and let cool slightly before enjoying.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine and mix ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, milk, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like salt and cinnamon.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring and mixing the dough.

• Whisk: Helps in mixing the yeast with the warm milk to ensure it becomes frothy.

• Dough scraper: Handy for kneading and folding the dough, as well as cleaning the work surface.

• Greased bowl: A bowl coated with a thin layer of oil or butter to prevent the dough from sticking while it rises.

• Loaf pan: A rectangular pan used to shape and bake the bread.

• Oven: Used to bake the bread at the required temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Cooling rack: Allows the bread to cool evenly after baking.

• Pastry brush: Useful for greasing the loaf pan with melted butter.

• Kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rises to keep it warm and moist.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can knead the dough more efficiently, saving you time and effort.

Warm environment for rising: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven to speed up the rising process.

Pre-soak raisins: Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the dough to ensure they are plump and evenly distributed.

Double the recipe: Make two loaves at once and freeze one for later, saving time on future baking.