If you’re looking for an easy and delicious raisin bread recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, and it yields a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
In this recipe, we’ll use a combination of white and whole wheat flour to create a bread that’s both flavorful and nutritious. We’ll also add in a generous amount of raisins, which will give the bread a sweet and chewy texture.
Ingredients
Creating a delectable easy raisin bread requires a harmonious blend of essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in shaping its delectable taste and texture:
- Flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and texture.
- Yeast: A magical ingredient that acts as a leavening agent, allowing the dough to rise and become fluffy.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness that feeds the yeast and contributes to the bread’s golden-brown crust.
- Salt: Enhances the bread’s flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Milk: Adds moisture, tenderness, and a slight tanginess.
- Raisins: The star ingredient, providing bursts of sweet, chewy goodness.
- Butter: Softens the bread, adds richness, and contributes to its flaky layers.
Unique Ingredients
This recipe does not call for any unique or specialized ingredients, making it accessible to home bakers of all levels.
Equipment
To make easy raisin bread, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you create a delicious and well-baked loaf of bread.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are used to combine the ingredients for the bread dough. They should be large enough to accommodate all of the ingredients without overflowing. Glass or metal bowls work well for this purpose.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure the ingredients for the bread dough. This is important to ensure that the bread turns out correctly.
Bread Machine
A bread machine is a specialized appliance that can be used to make bread. It kneads the dough, proofs it, and bakes it. If you don’t have a bread machine, you can knead the dough by hand and bake it in a loaf pan.
Loaf Pan
A loaf pan is a rectangular pan used to bake bread. It provides the bread with its shape and helps it to rise evenly.
Cooling Rack
A cooling rack is used to cool the bread after it has been baked. This helps to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
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Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
Add the flour, salt, and raisins to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough just comes together. The dough will be sticky.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Rising the Dough
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping the Loaves
Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Shape each half into a loaf and place them in two greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Step 6: Rising the Loaves
Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 7: Baking the Bread
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 8: Cooling the Bread
Remove the bread from the pans and let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Variations
The basic easy raisin bread recipe can be easily customized to create a variety of delicious variations. Experiment with different types of raisins, incorporate additional flavors, or add mix-ins for a unique twist on this classic bread.
Consider using different varieties of raisins, such as golden raisins, sultanas, or currants, to add a touch of sweetness and texture to the bread. Alternatively, try incorporating dried cranberries, blueberries, or cherries for a burst of fruity flavor.
Spices and Flavors
Add a touch of warmth and spice to the bread by incorporating cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into the dough. For a more indulgent flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
Mix-Ins
Add some extra texture and flavor to the bread by incorporating mix-ins such as chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds. For a sweet and savory twist, try adding a handful of bacon bits or shredded cheddar cheese.
Tips and Troubleshooting
To ensure a successful and delicious easy raisin bread, consider the following tips and troubleshooting guide.
Prior to baking, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, as this promotes even mixing and optimal yeast activity.
Preventing Dry Bread
If your bread turns out dry, it may be due to insufficient moisture. To prevent this, consider the following:
- Add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or water to the dough.
- Cover the bread with a damp cloth during the second rise.
- Bake the bread in a covered dish to retain moisture.
Addressing Dense Bread
If your bread is too dense, it may be due to overmixing or insufficient kneading. To resolve this:
- Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Avoid overmixing, as this can develop the gluten too much.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for at least an hour.
Solving Undercooked Bread
If your bread is undercooked, it may be due to insufficient baking time or an inaccurate oven temperature. To rectify this:
- Bake the bread for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Use an oven thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.
- Cover the bread with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Closing Summary
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Once you’ve tried this easy raisin bread recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought bread again. It’s so easy to make, and it tastes so much better than anything you can buy at the store. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try today!
FAQs
How can I make my raisin bread sweeter?
You can add more sugar to the dough or glaze the bread with a simple syrup after it has baked.
Can I use other dried fruits in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of dried fruit that you like. Some popular options include cranberries, cherries, and apricots.
How do I store raisin bread?
Raisin bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze raisin bread for up to 2 months.