Few things are as comforting as a thick, golden slice of Cinnamon Raisin Bread, still warm from the oven and filling the kitchen with its sweet, spiced aroma. This beloved loaf brings together tender, fluffy crumb with a swirl of cinnamon sugar and juicy raisins in every bite. Whether you enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter, as the foundation for French toast, or simply all on its own, this bread transforms simple pantry staples into an everyday indulgence. If you’ve never baked homemade bread before, this is a fantastic place to start—it’s straightforward, utterly delicious, and the perfect way to fill your home with warmth.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cinnamon Raisin Bread lies in its simplicity; each ingredient lends something special, from softness and sweetness to irresistible scent and color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

All-purpose flour: Delivers structure and just the right amount of chewiness without making the loaf dense.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough itself and encourages a beautifully golden crust.
Active dry yeast: Gives your Cinnamon Raisin Bread its lovely rise and tender texture.
Salt: Sharpens the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Warm milk (about 110°F): Adds moisture and richness, plus helps activate the yeast for a higher rise.
Unsalted butter (melted): Brings richness and a hint of buttery flavor to every bite.
Large egg: Contributes to a soft crumb and gives your loaf a bit of extra lift.
Raisins: Plump bites of sweetness scattered throughout the swirled bread (try soaking them for extra juiciness!).
Brown sugar: Permits the cinnamon swirl to caramelize during baking, giving ribbons of gooey flavor.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice—fresh and fragrant—brings warmth and classic aroma.
Melted butter (for brushing): Ensures the loaf bakes up golden and inviting, with a soft, tempting crust.

How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, stir together 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Add in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, mixing until the dough is nicely blended and smooth. Gradually add the rest of the flour, just until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. It’s amazing how quickly these simple ingredients come together to create the foundation for your Cinnamon Raisin Bread.

Step 2: Knead Until Smooth

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes, embracing the gentle rhythm as the dough transforms under your hands. You’re looking for a supple, elastic texture—this step is key for developing that pillowy bite everyone loves in homemade bread.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot. After about an hour, the dough should have doubled in size, ready and brimming with promise.

Step 4: Shape, Fill, and Roll

Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 9×14-inch rectangle. Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough, followed by the juicy raisins. Starting at one short end, roll the dough up tightly into a log, nestling all that goodness inside. Place the log seam-side down into a greased loaf pan for the final rise.

Step 5: Let the Bread Rise Again

Cover the loaf pan and let your future Cinnamon Raisin Bread rise once more for 30 to 40 minutes, until it looks beautifully puffy. This second rise allows the bread to bake up evenly and achieve that classic, domed top.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Before baking, brush the loaf with melted butter for an inviting sheen and added flavor. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the bread is deep golden and sounds hollow when gently tapped. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool fully—though sneaking a warm slice is highly recommended!

How to Serve Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Garnishes

A lavish sweep of soft butter across a warm slice is classic, and a gentle dusting of powdered sugar can elevate it to bakery-level beauty. You might even drizzle a simple vanilla glaze on top for a special occasion—your Cinnamon Raisin Bread will look gorgeous and taste like dessert!

Side Dishes

Pair it with fresh fruit, a pat of creamy cheese, or a swirl of whipped honey butter for a delightful spread. This bread also boasts star power in breakfast platters alongside scrambled eggs or a bowl of Greek yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn thick slices into spectacular French toast, cube it for bread pudding, or even make mini sandwiches with mascarpone and berries. Toasted and sliced into fingers, it becomes a fun snack for little hands or charming addition to a brunch grazing board.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Cinnamon Raisin Bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is very warm, a spot in the fridge can help extend its shelf life by a day or two—but be sure to keep it tightly covered to avoid drying out.

Freezing

Cinnamon Raisin Bread freezes beautifully, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat. Simply wrap the cooled loaf (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months, and thaw at room temperature or pop slices straight into the toaster for a quick, cozy snack.

Reheating

To restore that just-baked warmth and aroma, toast individual slices or reheat the loaf (wrapped in foil) in a 325°F oven until warmed through. A quick press on the griddle with a little butter makes for an especially indulgent treat!

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! You can substitute an equal amount of instant yeast for active dry yeast. Instant yeast doesn’t need to be pre-dissolved; just add it along with the flour and sugar, then proceed with the recipe as written.

How do I make sure my bread isn’t too dense?

Be careful not to add too much flour, and knead just until the dough is soft and elastic. Over-flouring or under-kneading can cause a heavy loaf, so stick to the quantities in the recipe for the fluffiest Cinnamon Raisin Bread.

Should I soak the raisins first?

Soaking the raisins for about 10 minutes in warm water or orange juice makes them extra plump and juicy, which adds even more delightful texture to each bite. It’s an optional step, but highly recommended if you love especially tender raisins in your bread.

Is it possible to make this bread dairy-free?

Yes! Use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat, and swap in a vegan butter (or coconut oil) for the butter. The results are still delicious, with plenty of cinnamon-scented coziness.

Can I make mini loaves or rolls instead of a single loaf?

You sure can! Divide the dough after the first rise and shape as desired, adjusting the baking time as needed (mini loaves will bake in 20-25 minutes; rolls in about 15-18 minutes). Keep an eye out and enjoy experimenting with shapes and sizes.

Final Thoughts

Baking Cinnamon Raisin Bread at home is more than just making breakfast—it’s a cozy ritual that fills the house with joy. Give this recipe a try and watch as each slice becomes a new family favorite. I can’t wait for you to share the experience of fresh, homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread right from your own kitchen!

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe