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I've completely changed my weekend baking game with this stir-and-wait cinnamon raisin bread. Gone is the tough work, but the amazing bakery-quality stays put. Sweet raisins mixed with warm cinnamon make a loaf that works for morning toast, midday snacks, or even after-dinner treats—all with barely any hands-on time.
When good bread got hard to find during lockdown, I started baking this loaf. Now my family asks for it every weekend, and the amazing smell of cinnamon bread baking has turned into our favorite Saturday tradition.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: your foundation that builds just the right texture
- Salt: brings out flavor and keeps yeast growth in check
- Active dry yeast: a tiny bit creates amazing lift without any kneading
- Ground cinnamon: grab the good stuff for best taste results
- Raisins: juicy sweet spots that add bursts of natural sweetness
- Lukewarm water: wakes up the yeast and pulls the dough together
- Brown sugar: adds those lovely molasses hints and gentle sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Stir flour, salt, yeast, cinnamon and raisins together in a big bowl until everything's well mixed. This way your raisins and cinnamon will spread evenly through your finished bread.
- Add Water and Form Dough:
- Pour warm water over your dry mix and stir with a wooden spoon until you can't see any dry flour. Your dough should look messy and a bit sticky—that's exactly right for this method.
- Long Rise Period:
- Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit out for 12 to 18 hours. This long waiting time works magic, building flavor and structure while you don't lift a finger.
- Preheat Dutch Oven:
- Get your oven hot at 450°F with the cast iron pot inside. The hot pot makes steam that gives you that amazing crust.
- Form Dough Ball With Sugar:
- Put lots of flour on your hands and counter before dumping out the dough. Sprinkle brown sugar on the flattened dough and fold it a few times to mix in. Shape it roughly into a ball and put it on parchment paper.
- Bake Covered Then Uncovered:
- Lower the dough with its parchment into the hot pot and bake with the lid on for 30 minutes. Take the lid off and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until deep gold. First part helps it rise, second part makes it crispy.
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The first time this bread came out of my oven, I couldn't believe such a beautiful loaf took so little effort. My daughter helps me make it now, and seeing her face light up when we open the pot to find our perfectly risen bread has become one of my favorite mom moments.
Storing Your Bread
Your cinnamon raisin bread will stay fresh at room temp for about 4 days if you keep it in a paper bag or bread box. Don't use plastic bags as they'll make your crisp crust go soft. For longer storage, let the bread cool completely, slice the whole loaf, and freeze portions in freezer bags. Just pop frozen slices straight into the toaster for that just-baked taste whenever you want.
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Making It Your Own
This bread works great as is, but you can switch things up in so many ways. Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and nutrients. Swap the raisins for dried cranberries or cherries if you want some tang. For something really special, mix in some orange zest to add bright citrus that goes perfectly with cinnamon. The basic steps stay the same no matter what you add in.
Serving Suggestions
This bread makes any breakfast spread better. Cut thick slices while it's still a bit warm and spread with salted butter for a simple joy. It turns into amazing French toast when soaked in a cinnamon egg mix. For a fancy dessert, toast a slice and top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel. I often share it with afternoon coffee, and my friends always ask how I made it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is kneading the dough necessary?
Nope! All you do is mix the ingredients and let the dough rest for 12-18 hours to get that perfect rise and texture.
- → Can I swap instant yeast for active dry?
You sure can! The process of letting it rise stays exactly the same.
- → What’s the best way to keep it from sticking?
Line your pot with parchment paper. It makes removing the bread easy and mess-free.
- → Can I toss in other goodies?
Of course! Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate for fun flavors and textures.
- → How long does it stay fresh?
Keep it sealed at room temp for about 4 days. Or freeze it—it’ll last up to 3 months!