Ingredients

• For the Dough:
  • Egg: 1 large
  • Sugar: 5 tablespoons
  • Warm milk: 300 ml
  • Yeast: 7 grams (1 heaped tablespoon)
  • Vegetable or olive oil: 50 ml (3.5 tablespoons)
  • Flour: 650 grams (4 cups, measured with a 250 ml cup)
  • Salt: 1/3 teaspoon
• For Greasing:
  • Oil: 1/2 teaspoon
• For Topping:
  • Raisins: As desired for decoration
  • Egg yolk: 1
  • Milk: 1 tablespoon
• Optional Garnish:
  • Powdered sugar for sprinkling

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Preparation and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes (including dough resting time)
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

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Steps to Make Soft Raisin Bread

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg lightly.
2. Add sugar and warm milk, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is activated.
4. Add the vegetable or olive oil, mixing thoroughly.
5. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, stirring until the dough starts to come together.

2. Knead and Rest

1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Grease a large bowl with 1/2 teaspoon of oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Let the dough rest for 50 minutes in a warm place until it doubles in size.

3. Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
2. Divide it into 12 equal parts and shape each into a round ball.
3. Let the dough balls rest on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray for another 10 minutes.

4. Add Raisins and Rest Again

1. Decorate each dough ball with raisins, pressing them gently into the surface.
2. Allow the decorated dough to rest for a final 10 minutes before baking.

5. Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 200℃ (392℉).
2. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture over the surface of the dough balls to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
3. Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes or until they turn a rich golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
2. If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked soft raisin bread with butter, jam, or simply as it is!

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Why This Recipe is Timeless

This soft raisin bread transcends trends and generations due to its simplicity and versatility. Its fluffy texture and subtle sweetness make it suitable for all occasions, whether it’s breakfast, a tea-time treat, or an after-dinner dessert. The recipe’s roots can be traced to home bakers who prioritized wholesome ingredients and time-tested techniques.

Furthermore, its universal appeal lies in the balance of flavors: the sweetness of raisins complements the soft, slightly savory dough. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that encourages beginners while delighting seasoned bakers.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 piece (out of 12)
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 70mg

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FAQs

1. Can I use dried cranberries or chocolate chips instead of raisins?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile. Substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or even nuts for a personalized twist.

2. What if I don’t have fresh yeast?
You can use instant or active dry yeast in the same quantity. Ensure it’s properly activated with warm milk and sugar before mixing it into the dough.

3. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Tap the surface of the bread. If it sounds hollow, it’s done. Alternatively, you can check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should read 190–200℉ (88–93℃).

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Tips for Perfect Soft Raisin Bread

1. Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid compacting flour into the measuring cup.
2. Warm Milk, Not Hot: Milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast, so aim for a lukewarm temperature.
3. Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving the bread its soft, elastic texture.
4. Don’t Skip Resting Times: Allowing the dough to rise ensures a light and fluffy final product.
5. Decorate Creatively: Arrange raisins in patterns or shapes to make the bread visually appealing, especially for special occasions.

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Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrap in foil for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a fresh taste.

Conclusion

Soft raisin bread is more than just a baked good; it’s a heartfelt experience that captures the essence of homemade comfort and tradition. Its preparation involves simple steps that connect you with the artistry of baking, making it as much about the journey as the result. From the first moments of kneading the dough to the rich, inviting aroma filling your home as it bakes, this bread turns ordinary moments into extraordinary ones.

This recipe has stood the test of time because it embodies qualities we all cherish—simplicity, warmth, and the ability to bring people together. Whether it’s shared during a lazy Sunday breakfast with family, served as a centerpiece at a festive gathering, or enjoyed as a personal indulgence with a cup of tea, this soft raisin bread brings joy in every setting.

It’s not just its flavor or texture that makes this bread timeless; it’s the love and care imbued in each step. It’s about the pause in our busy lives to create something from scratch, the anticipation of watching the dough rise, and the sheer delight of pulling a golden, fragrant loaf from the oven. These moments, however small, remind us of the beauty in slowing down and savoring life’s simple pleasures.