Scrumptious Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread

Scrumptious Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread is a delightful treat, perfect for any day of the year, not just for its celebration on September 16th. This bread features a beautifully soft texture, enhanced with swirls of cinnamon, sugar, and plump raisins, all topped with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust.

Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread

• Active Dry Yeast: Activates best in warm water (105-115°F). Check the expiration date to ensure it’s active.
• Warm Water: Ideal temperature is critical—too hot can kill the yeast.
• Egg: Works best at room temperature to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
• Raisins: Customize the amount to your liking; this recipe uses a generous cup for plentiful bursts of flavor.

Enjoying Your Bread

Once baked, brush with melted butter for a soft, enticing crust. Cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it plain, buttered, or toasted for a comforting treat.

Storing Your Bread

To extend freshness, wrap the cooled bread in aluminum foil and freeze in a sealed bag. Label with the date for best use within a few months.

Ingredients

Dough

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, divided
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (no hotter than 120°F [49°C])
• ⅛ cup (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg, room temperature

Filling

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, divided
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (150 g) raisins

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 1½ cups flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix in warm water, oil, and egg until smooth. Gradually add remaining flour until a dough forms.
2. Knead: Turn out onto a floured surface; knead for 8-10 minutes until elastic.
3. First Rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
4. Shape: Punch down the dough. Roll out on a floured surface to an 18×10-inch rectangle. Brush with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
5. Add Filling: Mix sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over butter, then distribute raisins. Starting at one short end, roll up tightly; pinch seam to seal.
6. Second Rise: Place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Brush with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle with some cinnamon-sugar. Let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake bread for 30-35 minutes until golden. Remove, brush with remaining butter.
8. Cool and Serve: Let bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

This Scrumptious Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread is not only a pleasure to bake but also a delight to eat, ensuring each slice is packed with flavor and the comfort of homemade goodness.