Delight your taste buds with this wonderfully tender and subtly sweet bread with raisins—a timeless classic that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Made with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla, this bread features a perfectly balanced sweetness and a fluffy, moist texture. Raisins are kneaded into the dough to add bursts of natural sweetness, making each bite irresistible. The recipe uses instant yeast for a quick rise and includes step-by-step guidance for creating soft, golden perfection, whether shaped as a loaf or rolls. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, or enjoy it toasted with a smear of jam. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy homemade bread will fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goodness!
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool to lukewarm (about 100°F/38°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
Add the lukewarm milk mixture, egg, vanilla extract, and water to the dry ingredients. Stir until combined.
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, and stir until the dough is no longer sticky. Adjust by adding small amounts of flour if needed.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat lightly in oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in the raisins evenly.
Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into smaller rolls as desired. Place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 45–60 minutes until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Calories |
2949 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.3 g | 54% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.9 g | 99% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 304 mg | 101% | |
| Sodium | 2610 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 577.3 g | 210% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.5 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 191.8 g | ||
| Protein | 71.5 g | 143% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 482 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 25.7 mg | 143% | |
| Potassium | 1953 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.