Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe

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

Raisins: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture to the bread.

Ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with a warm, spicy flavor.

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

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

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

When kneading the dough, ensure it is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This helps develop the gluten, giving the bread a better structure and chew. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour gradually, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the bread dense.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the bread denser.

• raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a similar texture and a slightly tart flavor that complements the sweetness 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 more complex flavor.

• warm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat that can replace butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and may add a slightly different mineral flavor.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water before adding to the dough.

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap the cinnamon raisin bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Alternatively, place it in a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
• Store the wrapped bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
• For freezing, slice the bread first. This allows you to take out only what you need without defrosting the entire loaf.
• Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. This prevents the slices from sticking together.
• Once the slices are frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer for a quick and delicious treat.
• For an extra touch, spread some butter or cream cheese on the toasted slices. The warmth will enhance the cinnamon flavor and make the raisins even more delightful.

• 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 and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Toaster Method:

  1. Slice the bread into individual pieces.
  2. Place the slices in a toaster or toaster oven.
  3. Toast on a medium setting until the slices are warm and slightly crispy.

• 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 retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking to ensure it doesn't become too soft or soggy.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Lightly butter both sides of the bread slices.
  3. Place the slices in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed and slightly toasted.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place a steaming basket over the pot, ensuring the water does not touch the basket.
  3. Wrap the cinnamon raisin bread in a clean kitchen towel and place it in the steaming basket.
  4. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is warmed through.

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

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the precise amount of flour, milk, and other ingredients.

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

• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the ingredients together before kneading.

• Loaf pan: A greased pan where the dough will be placed to rise and bake.

• Plastic wrap: Used to cover the dough while it rises to prevent it from drying out.

• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking the bread.

• Cooling rack: A rack where the bread will cool down after baking.

• Pastry brush: Used to apply melted butter to the dough if needed.

• Thermometer: To check the temperature of the milk to ensure it is warm but not too hot for the yeast.

• Knife: For slicing the bread once it has cooled.

Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure all ingredients and have them ready to go. This reduces prep time and ensures a smooth workflow.

Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to knead the dough. This saves time and effort compared to kneading by hand.

Warm the milk quickly: Warm the milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds instead of using the stovetop.

Soak raisins in advance: Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before starting. This helps them blend into the dough more easily.