Delicious Homemade Bread Recipe with Raisins

Making bread at home is a rewarding experience, filling your kitchen with warmth and the aroma of freshly baked goodness. This Bread Recipe With Raisins adds a touch of sweetness and texture that elevates a simple loaf to something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a perfectly golden crust and a soft, flavorful interior.

Understanding the Ingredients for Raisin Bread

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s explore the key ingredients that make this bread recipe with raisins so delightful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture.

• Flour: The foundation of our bread. We’ll be using all-purpose flour for its versatility and readily available nature.
• Yeast: The magic ingredient that makes our bread rise. This recipe calls for active dry yeast, which needs to be proofed (activated) before use.
• Water: Essential for hydrating the flour and activating the yeast. The temperature of the water is crucial for yeast activity, ideally lukewarm.
• Sugar: Provides food for the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the bread.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread and controls the yeast activity.
• Butter/Oil: Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb. You can use either melted butter or a neutral oil like vegetable oil.
• Raisins: The star of the show! Plump, juicy raisins bring bursts of sweetness and a chewy texture to every bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Bread with Raisins

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking! This bread recipe with raisins is straightforward, even for beginners.

1. Proof the yeast: In a large bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
2. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the raisins: Gently fold in the raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the loaf: Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
7. Second rise (proofing): Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
9. Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Step-by-step bread making process highlighting the addition of raisins

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Raisin Bread

Here are some tips to help you achieve baking success with this bread recipe with raisins:

• Don’t overheat the water: Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, resulting in a dense loaf.
• Kneading is key: Proper kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaked bread will be dry and crumbly. Use a thermometer to ensure the bread is cooked through.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Perfectly baked golden brown raisin bread loaf on a cooling rack

“The beauty of baking bread lies in its simplicity,” says renowned baker, Amelia Hearthstone. “With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something truly magical.”

Variations on the Classic Raisin Bread Recipe

This bread recipe with raisins is a wonderful starting point, but feel free to get creative and personalize it. Consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. You could also substitute some of the raisins with other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apricots. Similar to a Cookie recipe with fruit, the possibilities are endless!

Bread Making FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making bread with raisins:

1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, bread flour will result in a slightly chewier loaf.
2. Can I use instant yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast without proofing it first. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients.
3. Why is my bread dense? Several factors can contribute to dense bread, such as inactive yeast, insufficient kneading, or overbaking.
4. How do I know if my bread is done? The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 200°F (93°C).
5. Can I make this bread without raisins? Absolutely! Simply omit the raisins for a classic white bread. Similar to this Bread recipe no butter, you can adapt the recipe to your preferences.
6. How do I store leftover raisin bread? Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
7. Can I add nuts to this recipe? Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition. Like a Cookie recipe with apples, adding nuts can create a delightful textural contrast.

This bread recipe with raisins is a celebration of simple pleasures. It’s about the joy of creating something with your own hands and sharing it with those you love. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of homemade bread. You might even consider pairing this delicious raisin bread with a complementary dessert, perhaps a Cake recipe with applesauce. Enjoy!