Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe

This Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a delicious and comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With a soft and fluffy texture, a warm cinnamon swirl, and a sweet buttery frosting, this homemade bread is sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cinnamon Raisin Bread:

For the Bread:

• Active dry yeast: Makes the dough rise and become light and fluffy.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Flour: Provides structure and texture.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast.
• Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and tenderness.
• Eggs: Add richness and help bind the dough.
• Raisins: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
• Softened butter: For brushing the dough and greasing the pans.

For the Frosting:

• Butter-flavored shortening: Creates a stable and fluffy frosting.
• Softened butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Creates a sweet and smooth frosting.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and flavor.
• Milk: Thins the frosting to the desired consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add ½ cup of sugar, oil, salt, eggs, 4 cups of flour, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Mix until well combined. Stir in the raisins and gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 6-8 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand. The dough should be tacky but not overly sticky.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape and Fill the Loaves

Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a 15×9 inch rectangle. Brush the rectangles with softened butter. In a small bowl, combine the remaining sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough, leaving about ½ inch of the edges bare. Starting from a short side, tightly roll up each rectangle of dough. Pinch the seams to seal. Place each rolled dough into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.

Step 4: Let the Loaves Rise Again

Cover the loaf pans with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the loaves rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the loaves are rising. Bake the loaves for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.¹

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the bread is cooling, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the butter-flavored shortening and softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You can add more powdered sugar or milk as needed to adjust the thickness.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the bread has cooled completely, frost the loaves with the prepared frosting. Slice and serve.

How to Serve Cinnamon Raisin Bread

• Breakfast or Brunch: This Cinnamon Raisin Bread is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
• Afternoon Treat: Enjoy it as a sweet and satisfying afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Dessert: Serve it warm as a comforting dessert after a meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

You can freeze the baked bread for up to 3 months. Slice the bread before freezing, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast or bread machine yeast, but you may need to adjust the rising time accordingly.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, seeds, or other dried fruits to the dough.

Can I make this bread without the frosting?

Yes, the bread is delicious on its own, but the frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

How can I make this bread vegan?

You can use vegan butter and egg substitutes, and plant-based milk.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-follow recipe for Cinnamon Raisin Bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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