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Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe

4.5 from 73 reviews

A classic homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread recipe featuring a soft, flavorful dough infused with ground cinnamon and plump raisins, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp softened butter

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup raisins (soaked in warm water)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the activated yeast mixture and softened butter. Stir the ingredients until they come together into a dough.
  3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten structure.
  4. Incorporate Raisins: Sprinkle the soaked and drained raisins over one half of the dough. Fold the other half over the raisins and knead gently just enough to distribute the raisins evenly throughout the dough without crushing them.
  5. First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and set it in a warm area to rise for about one hour or until it doubles in size.
  6. Shape and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough gently to release gases. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Soaking raisins plumps them up and prevents them from drawing moisture from the bread.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
  • Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
  • Optionally, glaze the top with melted butter right after baking for a softer crust.

Keywords: cinnamon raisin bread, homemade bread, sweet bread, breakfast bread, yeast bread