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Buy Now →This Twisted Homemade Bread with Raisins is soft, lightly sweetened, and beautifully golden with a fragrant swirl of raisins. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this bread is both visually stunning and delicious!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (450 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
- 2 ¼ tsp (7 g) instant yeast
- 3 tbsp (40 g) sugar
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, softened
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (75 g) raisins, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained
- 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
For Topping:
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Directions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg.
- Mix until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
- After soaking and draining the raisins, toss them with sugar and cinnamon (if using).
Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle (about 10×12 inches).
- Brush the surface of the dough with melted butter. Sprinkle the raisin mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log lengthwise to expose the layers.
- Twist the two strands around each other, keeping the cut sides facing up. Pinch the ends to seal.
- Repeat with the second portion of dough if making two loaves. Place the twisted dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise:
- Cover the shaped bread with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bread with the egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy plain, or spread with butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Cooking Tips
- For softer raisins, soak them in orange juice instead of water for added flavor.
- Adjust the sugar in the filling based on your sweetness preference.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading.
Nutritional Benefits
- Raisins: Rich in natural sugars and provide fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
- Milk and eggs: Contribute protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and butter.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 12 slices)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Storage
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or toaster before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Twisted Homemade Bread with Raisins is soft, lightly sweet, and visually beautiful. The plump raisins add a burst of natural sweetness, while the twist shape ensures every slice is a show-stopper. It’s perfect for family gatherings, brunch, or as a comforting treat.
Conclusion
This Twisted Homemade Bread with Raisins combines the sweetness of raisins with a soft, fluffy bread dough, resulting in a delightful and versatile baked good. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and share the joy of homemade baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use golden raisins instead of regular raisins?
Yes, golden raisins work perfectly and add a slightly different flavor. - Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans make an excellent addition to the filling. - Do I have to soak the raisins?
Soaking softens the raisins and prevents them from drying out during baking, but it’s optional. - Can I skip the cinnamon?
Yes, cinnamon is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a plain raisin bread. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the bread will be denser. Use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a softer texture. - Can I make mini twisted rolls instead of a large loaf?
Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and twist them individually. Adjust baking time to 12-15 minutes. - Can I add other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or dried apricots for variety. - How can I make this bread sweeter?
Increase the sugar in the dough or sprinkle more sugar in the filling. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough, refrigerate it overnight, and let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. - How do I store leftover bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.