Cranberry & Raisin Swirl Bread

This Cranberry & Raisin Swirl Bread is a delightful and fragrant treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. Soft, slightly sweet dough is filled with plump cranberries and golden raisins, making each bite a burst of flavor. It’s beautifully twisted to reveal the vibrant fruit inside, creating an eye-catching swirl pattern that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)
Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 300 grams all-purpose flour (2½ cups)
• 150 ml warm milk (⅔ cup)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 50 grams sugar (¼ cup)
• 1 egg
• 50 grams unsalted butter, softened (¼ cup)
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 100 grams dried cranberries (⅔ cup)
• 100 grams golden raisins (⅔ cup)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

• Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
  1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk (150 ml), active dry yeast (2 teaspoons), and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.
• Make the Dough:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour (300 grams), the remaining sugar (50 grams), and salt (½ teaspoon).
  2. Add the yeast mixture, 1 egg, and softened butter (50 grams). Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the Dough:
  1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
• First Rise:
  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
• Prepare the Filling:
  1. While the dough is rising, soak the dried cranberries and raisins (100 grams each) in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up. Drain well and pat dry.
• Shape the Bread:
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick.
  2. Sprinkle the cranberries and raisins evenly over the dough.
• Roll and Twist the Dough:
  1. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, forming a log shape.
  2. Slice the dough log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers of fruit inside.
  3. Twist the two halves of dough together, ensuring the fruit is visible in the swirl pattern.
• Second Rise:
  1. Place the twisted dough into a greased baking pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
• Bake the Bread:
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the bread for a glossy finish.
  3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve:
  1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  2. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch.
• Serve with butter or jam for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Pair with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced snack.
• Perfect for a holiday breakfast or gift-giving.
• Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• Make sure to use warm milk (not too hot) when activating the yeast to ensure it rises properly.
• Soak the cranberries and raisins in warm water to rehydrate them, ensuring they don’t dry out in the dough.
• If you prefer a lighter bread, use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour.
• For a glossy finish, brush the bread with a simple syrup or honey after baking.

Nutritional Benefits:

• This bread provides a good source of carbohydrates from the flour and fruit.
• Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which can help support immune health.
• Raisins provide natural sugars, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and iron.
• The butter and eggs offer healthy fats and protein for sustained energy.

Dietary Information:

• This recipe is vegetarian.
• Can be made dairy-free by substituting plant-based butter and milk.
• Contains gluten (can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend).

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 240
• Carbs: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g

Storage:

• Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 1 month.
• Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven for a fresh taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cranberry & Raisin Swirl Bread is sweet, soft, and packed with delicious dried fruit. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast or as a snack any time of day. The swirled design makes it a beautiful addition to any brunch table, and the combination of cranberries and raisins creates a wonderfully balanced flavor.

Conclusion:
This bread is an absolute treat that blends the sweetness of dried fruit with the richness of butter and eggs. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hot beverage, it’s sure to be a hit in your home. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, from a special holiday breakfast to an everyday snack. So grab your ingredients and start baking this delicious swirl bread today!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute the cranberries or raisins with other dried fruits?
   Yes, you can use dried apricots, cherries, or blueberries as alternatives.
2. Is it possible to make this bread without eggs?
   Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or chia seeds.
3. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
   Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Let it thaw and rise again before baking.
4. How long will this bread stay fresh?
   It stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 1 month.
5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   Yes, you can substitute part or all of the flour with whole wheat flour. It will result in a denser texture.
6. Can I add nuts to this bread?
   Yes, adding chopped walnuts or almonds can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread.
7. How can I make the bread less sweet?
   You can reduce the sugar in the dough or omit the sugar entirely.
8. Can I make this bread without a mixer or food processor?
   Yes, you can mix the dough by hand and knead it manually.
9. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
   The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
    Dried fruit works best for this recipe as it doesn’t release moisture during baking, but fresh fruit can be used with some adjustments.