Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread is a soft, slightly sweet bread with a delightful swirl of cinnamon and sugar, studded with juicy raisins. The combination of warm cinnamon spice and the natural sweetness of raisins makes this bread perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Whether toasted with butter or enjoyed on its own, each slice offers a deliciously fragrant and comforting flavor. This homemade version is easy to make and fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, making it a treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup raisins
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and activated.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, and stir until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add the Raisins: Gently knead the raisins into the dough until they are evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll and Fill: After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 9×18 inches. Brush the surface with the melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
- Form the Loaf: Starting from the short end, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal, and tuck the ends under. Place the loaf seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 45 minutes to an hour, or until it has puffed up and doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread as a delicious, comforting breakfast or snack!
