Cinnamon Raisin Bread (Bread Machine)
Ingredients (1.5 lb loaf):
1 cup water
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
3 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
3 cups bread flour
3 tbsp dry milk powder
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
¾ cup raisins (add during “add-in” beep or last 5 minutes of kneading)
Instructions:
1. Add ingredients to bread machine pan in this order (or as your machine recommends): water → butter → egg → sugar → salt → flour → dry milk → cinnamon → yeast.
2. Select Basic or Sweet Bread cycle, Medium crust, 1.5 lb loaf.
3. Add raisins when your machine beeps for extras (or just before the kneading cycle finishes).
4. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to keep it soft.
Making cinnamon raisin bread in a bread machine is a fantastic way to enjoy freshly baked bread without much effort. The blend of ground cinnamon and sweet raisins offers a comforting flavor that's perfect for mornings or afternoon teas. When using a bread machine, it’s important to add ingredients in the order recommended by your specific model to ensure proper mixing and rising. For this recipe, adding raisins during the machine’s “add-in” beep phase is crucial to prevent them from getting crushed during kneading and ensures they are perfectly distributed. Additionally, allowing the loaf to cool completely before slicing helps retain moisture and softness, resulting in a tender crumb. If you want to customize your bread, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch or sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar on top before the final rise for a slightly sweet crust. For those who prefer a healthier twist, substituting some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour can add fiber and a nuttier flavor while maintaining a soft texture. Remember that whole wheat flour may require a little extra water due to its higher absorption capacity. Experimenting with different types of raisins—like golden or sultanas—can also subtly change the sweetness and texture. Bread machines simplify the bread-making process by automating kneading, rising, and baking, but understanding your machine’s settings can improve results. Choosing the right cycle, such as Basic or Sweet Bread, and selecting a medium crust setting, as suggested in this recipe, balances a golden crust with a soft interior. Overall, cinnamon raisin bread made in a bread machine offers a convenient and delicious homemade treat with flavors perfect for the whole family. Pair it with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam for an extra indulgent experience. Happy baking!
