Why You’ll Love This Raisin Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious treat, you’ll love this raisin bread recipe. It’s simple to make and fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
The combination of sweet raisins and warm spices creates a delightful flavor that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. I love to toast slices and spread a little butter on top—it’s pure bliss!
Plus, this bread keeps well, so you can enjoy it for days. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring it solo, this raisin bread will surely become a favorite in your home.
Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Raisin Bread
When it comes to whipping up a delightful loaf of raisin bread, the right ingredients make all the difference. You might think that baking is all about precision and science, but I like to think of it as a little bit of magic too.
The combination of sweet, chewy raisins and warm spices creates a symphony of flavors that can brighten up even the gloomiest of days. And the best part? Most of these ingredients are staples you likely already have in your pantry.
So, roll up those sleeves, and let’s explore what you’ll need to make this scrumptious bread.
Ingredients for Raisin Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine
- 1 cup milk
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a second. If you’re like me, you might be tempted to swap out the butter for that fancy olive oil sitting in the back of your cupboard.
Trust me, I’ve tried it, and while it’s not a total disaster, it just doesn’t give you that rich, buttery flavor we all know and love in a good loaf of bread.
And if you can get your hands on some plump, juicy raisins, do it! I’ve made the mistake of using those sad little dried-out ones before, and let’s just say, they didn’t pull their weight in the flavor department.
How to Make Raisin Bread
Making raisin bread is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warm, cozy aromas. Start by taking a large bowl and measuring out 3 cups of all-purpose flour. Then, add in 1/2 cup of white sugar, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Now, I always find it amusing how a little cinnamon can transform a simple loaf into something that feels like a hug in bread form. Stir these dry ingredients together thoroughly, and don’t be afraid to really get in there; it’s like a mini workout for your arms. Make a well in the center of the mixture—think of it as a little pool waiting for the next ingredients to plunge in.
In a separate small bowl, beat 1 egg until it’s frothy. You want it to look like it’s ready for a party, so give it a good whisk. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of melted butter or margarine and 1 cup of milk.
Here’s where it gets exciting: pour this mixture right into the well you made in the dry ingredients. Now, gently stir it all together. You want to mix just enough to moisten everything without overdoing it. I’ve been guilty of over-mixing before, and let me tell you, that results in a loaf that’s more akin to a brick than bread.
So, once the batter is just combined, scrape it into a greased 9x5x3 loaf pan, and then it’s time for the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about an hour.
While it’s baking, you might find yourself pacing the kitchen, enthusiastically anticipating that golden loaf. It’s a magical moment when you pull it out of the oven, the aroma wafting through your home.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. You can serve it plain or toast it for an extra touch of deliciousness. I mean, who doesn’t love a warm slice of raisin bread slathered with butter?
Raisin Bread Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve baked a delicious loaf of raisin bread, you might be wondering how to mix things up or customize the recipe to suit your taste.
You can easily swap out raisins for cranberries or chopped nuts for a different texture. If you want a hint of citrus, try adding orange or lemon zest. For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white.
You might even experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking raisin bread can be straightforward, a few extra tips can elevate your loaf even further.
First, I recommend soaking the raisins in warm water or rum for 10 minutes to enhance their flavor and moisture.
You should also consider using a kitchen scale for precise measurements, as it can make a big difference in texture.
If you want a richer taste, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Finally, let your bread cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.
Trust me, these little adjustments can transform your homemade raisin bread into a delightful treat!