Cinnamon raisin bread recipe is a delightful combination of sweet raisins and spicy cinnamon, creating a warm, fragrant, and comforting loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether toasted and buttered or used as the base for decadent French toast, cinnamon raisin bread is a versatile treat that has been cherished for generations.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history and popularity of this bread, walk you through a step-by-step recipe, discuss its nutritional benefits, and share some delicious variations and serving suggestions.
What is Cinnamon Raisin Bread?
Cinnamon raisin bread is a yeast-leavened loaf filled with raisins and swirled with cinnamon. It’s a common staple in many homes and bakeries because it combines simple ingredients in a way that delivers complex flavors and textures. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the chewy sweetness of raisins makes it perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Many people also love it for the health benefits that raisins and cinnamon offer. Cinnamon, for example, is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a popular ingredient in health-conscious diets. Additionally, raisins are rich in fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients, contributing to overall heart health.
Why Make Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread?
Making cinnamon raisin bread at home not only allows you to control the quality of ingredients but also offers a fresher and more satisfying product than most store-bought versions. Here’s why homemade cinnamon raisin bread is better:
- No preservatives: You can avoid unnecessary additives.
- Control over sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels to suit your preferences.
- More raisins: Add as many or as few raisins as you like!
- Better texture: Homemade bread tends to be fluffier, with a more delicate crumb.
Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk and melted butter, and mix until the dough starts to form. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, you can knead the dough on a low setting for 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Raisins and Cinnamon
Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the raisins. This helps distribute them evenly throughout the bread. Separately, mix the cinnamon with a little sugar and sprinkle it evenly over the dough before rolling it up to create the classic cinnamon swirl.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape and Bake
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
5. Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This step ensures that the texture remains intact and the bread is not gummy when cut.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common problems you might encounter when making cinnamon raisin bread and how to solve them:
- Dense texture: This is often caused by under-kneading the dough or not allowing it to rise enough. Make sure to knead thoroughly and give the dough enough time to double in size.
- Raisins sinking to the bottom: Toss the raisins in a bit of flour before adding them to the dough. This will help keep them suspended.
- Cinnamon swirl coming apart: Brush the dough with a thin layer of water or butter before sprinkling on the cinnamon to help the swirl adhere to the dough.
Variations of Cinnamon Raisin Bread
While the classic cinnamon raisin bread is already delicious, you can experiment with variations to suit different diets and tastes.
1. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Raisin Bread
For those with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread can be made by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Make sure to add a bit of xanthan gum to help with the texture, as gluten-free flours often lack the elasticity needed for a good rise.
To get the best results, follow gluten-free baking tips to ensure your bread turns out fluffy and light.
2. Vegan Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Vegan cinnamon raisin bread is surprisingly easy to make. Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative (such as coconut oil or vegan margarine) and use a flaxseed egg instead of a chicken egg. A flax egg can be made by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water.
3. Overnight Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Want to enjoy fresh cinnamon raisin bread without much effort in the morning? You can prepare an overnight version. Simply prepare the dough the night before, let it rise slowly in the fridge, and bake it the next morning. This slow fermentation process can actually improve the bread’s flavor, as it allows the ingredients to develop more complexity.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon raisin bread isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it also offers some notable health benefits. Raisins are packed with iron, which helps maintain healthy blood circulation, while cinnamon is a well-known anti-inflammatory that can support heart health and reduce blood sugar levels.
According to studies, raisins are also rich in fiber, which helps improve digestion and can keep you feeling full longer. And cinnamon is full of antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, helping to protect your cells from damage.
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for a slice (around 70 grams) of homemade cinnamon raisin bread:
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
When you compare this to store-bought versions, you’ll notice that homemade bread has fewer preservatives and artificial ingredients, making it a healthier choice.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon raisin bread is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Classic toast: Toast a slice and spread it with butter or cream cheese for a simple breakfast or snack.
- French toast: Make French toast with cinnamon raisin bread for an extra flavorful twist on the classic breakfast dish.
- Bread pudding: Use leftover cinnamon raisin bread to make a sweet bread pudding.
- Sandwiches: Pair cinnamon raisin bread with peanut butter and banana, or try it with almond butter and honey for a healthy and satisfying sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Coating raisins with a bit of flour before adding them to the dough helps distribute them more evenly throughout the loaf.
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag.
Yes, homemade cinnamon raisin bread freezes well. Slice the bread and place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Make sure you roll the dough tightly and brush it with a little water or melted butter before adding the cinnamon and sugar. This will help keep the swirl intact during baking.
Ensure you give the dough enough time to rise and use fresh yeast. Also, avoid adding
1. How can I prevent raisins from sinking in the dough?
Coating raisins with a bit of flour before adding them to the dough helps distribute them more evenly throughout the loaf.
2. What’s the best way to store cinnamon raisin bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag.
3. Can I freeze cinnamon raisin bread?
Yes, homemade cinnamon raisin bread freezes well. Slice the bread and place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
4. Why did my cinnamon swirl come apart?
Make sure you roll the dough tightly and brush it with a little water or melted butter before adding the cinnamon and sugar. This will help keep the swirl intact during baking.
5. How can I make my cinnamon raisin bread fluffier?
Ensure you give the dough enough time to rise and use fresh yeast. Also, avoid adding
Conclusion
Cinnamon raisin bread is a timeless classic, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and spice in every bite. Whether you enjoy it toasted for breakfast, as the base for indulgent French toast, or even as a snack with your favorite toppings, this bread is versatile, satisfying, and simple to make at home.
By preparing cinnamon raisin bread yourself, you can control the quality of ingredients, adjust the sweetness, and experiment with different variations like gluten-free and vegan versions. The combination of health benefits from raisins and cinnamon makes it not only a delicious treat but also a nutritious one. Plus, with our step-by-step guide and tips on avoiding common baking issues, you can confidently bake a perfect loaf every time.
So why not give it a try? Homemade cinnamon raisin bread is a rewarding experience, and once you taste the difference, you might never go back to store-bought again!
With this guide, you now have everything you need to create delicious homemade cinnamon raisin bread, troubleshoot any potential issues, and enjoy its many health benefits. From preparing a basic loaf to trying out new variations, this bread is a comforting and wholesome addition to any kitchen.