Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup raisins
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 cup warm water (110 degrees f/45 degrees c)
- 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup margarine softened
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- Carbohydrate 30.2845811917798 g
- Cholesterol 3.1862847237943 mg
- Fat 6.39913821851354 g
- Fiber 1.15017408445875 g
- Protein 3.60880771226292 g
- Saturated Fat 1.65490564853922 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (67g)
- Sodium 431.643106936831 mg
- Sugar 29.1344071073211 g
- Trans Fat 0.341822689996496 g
- Calories 192 calories
Step-by-step
- Warm the milk in a small saucepan until it bubbles, then remove from heat. Let cool until lukewarm.
- Dissolve yeast in warm water, and set aside until yeast is frothy. Mix in eggs, sugar, butter or margarine, salt, and raisins. Stir in cooled milk. Add the flour gradually to make a stiff dough.
- Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes. Place in a large, greased, mixing bowl, and turn to grease the surface of the dough. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled.
- Roll out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle 1/2 inch thick. Moisten dough with 2 tablespoons milk. Mix together 3/4 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon, and sprinkle mixture on top of the moistened dough. Roll up tightly; the roll should be about 3 inches in diameter. Cut into thirds, and tuck under ends. Place loaves into well greased 9 x 5 inch pans. Lightly grease tops of loaves. Let rise again for 1 hour.
- Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes, or until loaves are lightly browned and sound hollow when knocked. Remove loaves from pans, and brush with melted butter or margarine. Let cool before slicing.
The Sweet Smell of Home: My Cinnamon Raisin Bread Journey
The aroma of freshly baked bread, especially cinnamon raisin bread, has always held a special place in my heart. It evokes memories of cozy kitchens, family gatherings, and the simple pleasure of sharing something homemade with loved ones. For years, I watched my grandmother, a woman whose hands seemed to possess a magical touch in the kitchen, effortlessly whip up loaf after loaf of this comforting treat. The rhythmic thud of her kneading, the gentle rise of the dough, the warm golden-brown crust emerging from the oven – these were the sights and sounds of my childhood. Learning to bake her cinnamon raisin bread wasn't just about following a recipe; it was about inheriting a piece of family history, a tangible link to the generations who came before me.
This recipe, passed down through generations, isn't just about the perfect blend of spices and the satisfying chew of the raisins; it's about the process. It's about taking the time to let the dough rise, nurturing it like a living thing, and watching it transform from a simple mixture of ingredients into something truly special. There's a meditative quality to kneading the dough, a physical manifestation of patience and care. It’s a welcome respite from the often frenetic pace of modern life, a moment to slow down, breathe, and connect with something ancient and inherently human: the simple act of making bread.
The first time I attempted this recipe on my own, I confess, I was a bit nervous. Would the dough rise properly? Would the cinnamon and raisins blend harmoniously? Would the final product even resemble my grandmother's masterpiece? The suspense was almost unbearable as I waited for the bread to bake. The anticipation, however, was quickly replaced by joy as the unmistakable scent of cinnamon and warmth filled my kitchen, a beacon that guided me to a perfectly golden-brown loaf. That first bite was pure bliss – a symphony of flavors and textures that brought tears to my eyes. It wasn't just bread; it was a taste of home, a taste of love, a taste of heritage.
Since then, baking this cinnamon raisin bread has become a cherished ritual. I've shared it with friends, family, and even neighbors, each loaf carrying a piece of my heart and the legacy of generations past. The simple act of sharing this bread has fostered countless connections, building bridges between people and reminding us of the unifying power of simple, heartfelt gestures. It’s a reminder that the most enduring things in life are often the simplest ones.
More than just a recipe, this cinnamon raisin bread is a testament to the power of tradition, the importance of family, and the enduring joy of creating something beautiful from humble ingredients. It's a taste of home, wherever home may be.
Beyond the Recipe: While the recipe itself is straightforward, the real magic lies in the process. Don’t rush the rising time – it’s essential for a light and airy loaf. And don't hesitate to experiment! Try adding different spices, nuts, or dried fruits to create your own unique variation. The possibilities are endless! The beauty of baking is that it encourages creativity and self-expression. Each loaf is a unique creation, reflecting your own personal touch and care.
Ultimately, baking this cinnamon raisin bread is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s a journey of connection, tradition, and self-discovery. It's an invitation to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and share the warmth of homemade goodness with those you love. It is a comforting taste of home, a legacy I hope to continue for many years to come.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on your own cinnamon raisin bread adventure. I promise, it's a journey worth taking. You'll be surprised at the joy it brings – to you and to everyone you share it with.
This cinnamon raisin bread is more than just a recipe; it's a story. It's a story of family, tradition, and the simple pleasures of life. It's a story waiting to be told through each loaf you bake and share.
