Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe

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

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

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Cinnamon: Provides the warm, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with raisins.

Raisins: Adds sweetness and texture to the bread.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the bread, making it rise and become fluffy.

When kneading the dough, ensure that you achieve a smooth and elastic texture. This process helps develop the gluten, which is crucial for the bread's structure. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the bread dense.

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

• warm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that still provides the necessary liquid for the dough.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can replace butter to add a subtle coconut flavor and make the recipe dairy-free.

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

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon, though it is a bit stronger.

• raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a tart and sweet flavor that complements the bread well.

• 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 cinnamon raisin bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the bread in a resealable plastic bag or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating the bread as it can dry out the texture.

• To keep the bread fresh for a longer period, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing so you can easily grab a slice or two without having to thaw the entire loaf.

• Wrap each slice or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped bread in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the bread fresh.

• Label the freezer bag or container with the date to keep track of how long the bread has been stored. Cinnamon raisin bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy the bread, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer. Let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. For a quicker option, you can also toast the slices directly from frozen.

• If you prefer to thaw the entire loaf, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the texture.

• For an extra touch of flavor, consider spreading a bit of butter or cream cheese on the slices before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade cinnamon raisin bread!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cinnamon raisin bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For a quick reheat, use a toaster. Slice the bread and toast it on a medium setting. This will give you a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and warm.

• Use a microwave for a fast option. Place a slice of cinnamon raisin bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread slices directly on the rack or on a baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the cinnamon raisin bread slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warm and slightly toasted.

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

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

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure small quantities of ingredients like sugar, salt, and cinnamon.

• Whisk: Used to mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast until frothy.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the dough before kneading.

• Dough scraper: Helps to scrape the dough from the surface and fold in the raisins.

• Kneading surface: A clean, flat surface where you can knead the dough.

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

• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: Used to cover the dough while it rises.

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

• Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the bread.

• Cooling rack: A wire rack to cool the bread after baking.

• Pastry brush: Optional, for brushing melted butter on top of the loaf before baking.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to save time during the baking process.

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

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

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to save time.

Soak raisins in advance: Soak raisins in warm water before adding them to the dough to ensure they are plump and mix in easily.