Soft Fluffy Cinnamon Raisin Bread (Printer-Friendly)
A tender bread loaf with cinnamon swirl and juicy raisins baked to golden perfection.
# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 -
1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
02 -
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
03 -
1/4 cup granulated sugar plus 1 teaspoon for yeast activation
04 -
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
05 -
1 large egg
06 -
1 teaspoon salt
07 -
3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
08 -
1 cup raisins, plumped
→ Cinnamon Swirl Filling
09 -
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
10 -
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
11 -
2 tablespoons melted butter
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
02 -
Add remaining granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until fully combined.
03 -
Gradually incorporate flour into the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 -
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
05 -
In a small bowl, blend light brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
06 -
Punch down risen dough and roll out on a floured surface into an 18 by 12 inch rectangle. Brush evenly with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
07 -
Starting from the long edge, roll dough tightly into a log and pinch seam closed. Place seam-side down in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
08 -
Cover loosely and let dough rise for 30 to 45 minutes until it crowns about 1 inch above the pan's rim.
09 -
During the last 15 minutes of the second rise, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
10 -
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
11 -
Remove bread from pan immediately and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Soak raisins in hot water for 10 minutes and drain before adding to dough to ensure they are plump.
02 -
For a softer crust, brush melted butter on top immediately after baking.
03 -
Adjust cinnamon-sugar filling quantity to control swirl intensity.