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Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread

Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread is a warm, comforting homemade bread featuring sweet cinnamon swirls and juicy raisins. Perfectly soft and moist with a tender crumb, this bread fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delights every bite. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert, it’s versatile and nostalgic with a rich combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup softened butter

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it activate for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg and softened butter into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, kneading the mixture until a smooth and elastic dough forms, about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer.
  2. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
  3. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon evenly. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle about 12×16 inches. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the dough, then scatter the raisins across the surface.
  4. Form the Swirl: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal the seam and ends. Coil the log gently if desired or place it directly into a greased loaf pan, seam side down.
  5. Second Rise and Bake: Cover the loaf pan loosely and let the dough rise a second time until puffy, about 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Use fresh, active dry yeast for the best rise and texture.
  • Spread cinnamon sugar and raisins evenly to avoid uneven baking or clumping.
  • Check bread around 30 minutes with a toothpick to prevent overbaking and maintain a soft crumb.
  • Let the bread cool fully before slicing to preserve structure and texture.
  • Brush the finished loaf with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful crust.
  • Toss raisins in a little flour before adding to dough to prevent sinking.
  • Use a serrated knife to slice to avoid crushing the tender crumb.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon bread, raisin bread, cinnamon swirl, homemade bread, sweet bread, breakfast bread, soft bread