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+ servings
A close-up of sliced bread revealing cinnamon-sugar layers and plump raisins.
5 from 2 votes

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Additional Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
A soft, cinnamon-swirled bread generously studded with raisins. Perfect served plain, toasted, or slathered with butter for a comforting homemade treat.
36 Servings

Ingredients

  • c whole milk
  • 1 c warm water approximately 110°F or 45°C
  • 2 .25 oz packets active dry yeast
  • 1 c raisins
  • 3 large eggs
  • c granulated sugar divided
  • ½ c margarine softened
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 8 c all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Instructions
 

Warm the Milk:

  1. In a small saucepan set over medium heat, warm the milk until bubbles begin to appear at the edges. Remove from heat and allow to cool to a lukewarm temperature.

Activate the Yeast:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, stir the warm water and yeast together. Let sit for approximately 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.

Prepare the Dough:

  1. To the yeast mixture, add the raisins, eggs, ½ cup sugar, margarine, and salt. Mix until incorporated. Stir in the cooled milk. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a stiff dough forms.

First Rise:

  1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for several minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rise in a warm area for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Loaf Pans:

  1. Lightly grease three 9x5-inch loaf pans and set aside.

Shape the Loaves:

  1. Punch down the risen dough and return to a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, approximately ½-inch thick. Brush with 2 tablespoons of milk. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¾ cup sugar with the cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log, approximately 3 inches in diameter.

Divide and Second Rise:

  1. Slice the dough log into three equal portions. Tuck the ends under each portion and place them into the prepared loaf pans. Lightly grease the tops of the loaves. Cover and allow to rise for another hour, or until doubled.

Bake:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for approximately 45 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.

Cool and Finish:

  1. Remove the loaves from the pans and brush the tops with melted butter. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent. Be aware that gluten-free doughs may be slightly more delicate; handle gently when shaping the loaves and allow a slightly longer rising time if needed.
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