Imagine a loaf of bread that blends the indulgence of buttery brioche with a ribbon of fragrant cinnamon sugar and bursts of sweet raisins. This elevated take on classic raisin bread is soft, rich, and impossibly tender, with a light crumb that pairs perfectly with a morning cup of tea. One bite, and you’ll know this isn’t just any ordinary bread—it’s a special treat worth savoring.
Whether enjoyed toasted or fresh from the cutting board, this bread promises layers of flavor and texture. The delicate sweetness and the swirl of cinnamon make it a crowd-pleaser for breakfast or brunch. Once you’ve had a slice, you might find yourself sneaking back for another before the day is through.
Though it takes a bit of time and care to prepare, this loaf is a labor of love, perfect for marking a special occasion. The overnight rise intensifies the flavor, while the baking process fills your home with the heavenly aroma of cinnamon. It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: A perfect balance of buttery brioche, sweet raisins, and cinnamon sugar.
- Ideal for Breakfast: Toast it up for a warm and comforting start to your day.
- Special Occasion-Worthy: The effort pays off with a loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients Overview
- Brioche Base: Made with eggs, butter, and a pre-fermentation sponge for extra flavor.
- Cinnamon Swirl: A mix of cinnamon and sugar ensures a fragrant, sweet swirl in every bite.
- Raisins: Add natural sweetness and a chewy texture to complement the soft bread.
- Egg Wash: Creates a glossy, golden crust for a bakery-worthy finish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sponge
In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1/2 cup of flour. Mix until smooth and well-blended. Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for 45 minutes, or until puffy and bubbly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Add eggs, egg yolk, sugar, and salt to the sponge and mix with the paddle attachment. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of flour until smooth. Switch to the dough hook and knead while adding the remaining flour. Continue kneading until the dough is elastic and smooth.
Step 3: Add Butter and Raisins
Mix in softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated. This process will take about 4 minutes, so be patient. Add raisins and mix until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be soft, sticky, and fragrant.
Step 4: First Rise (Overnight)
Transfer the dough to a clean bowl and pat it into a smooth ball. Cover the surface of the dough with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for 8–12 hours to allow it to rise slowly. This process develops flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into an 8 1/2×6 1/2-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the surface with milk and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll the dough tightly into a log, pinch the seam, and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan loosely with plastic wrap or a bag, leaving space for expansion. Let the dough rise for about 2 hours, or until puffy. Test the dough by gently poking it; the impression should spring back slowly.
Step 7: Bake the Loaf
Brush the loaf with egg wash to create a golden, shiny crust. Preheat the oven to 400°F and reduce it to 375°F once the loaf is placed inside. Bake for 35–40 minutes, covering with foil if it browns too quickly.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the loaf from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack. Check the internal temperature (190–200°F) to ensure it’s baked through. Allow the loaf to cool before slicing to maintain its structure. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Use a Sponge: This pre-fermentation step enhances flavor and texture.
- Roll Tight: A firm roll ensures an even cinnamon swirl.
- Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to confirm the loaf is fully baked.
- Cool Completely: Resist the urge to slice before the bread has cooled—it’s worth the wait!
Variations to Try
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Dried Fruit Medley: Swap some raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apricots.
- Chocolate Swirl: Replace cinnamon sugar with a mix of cocoa powder and sugar for a chocolatey version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this without a stand mixer?
Yes, but it will require extra effort to knead the dough by hand, especially when incorporating the butter.
2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Freeze it after the first rise, then thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
3. What if I don’t have a thermometer?
Tap the loaf; it should sound hollow when done.
4. How do I prevent the swirl from separating?
Brush the dough with milk to help the cinnamon sugar stick.
5. Can I make mini-loaves?
Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Slice the loaf and freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Toast slices directly from frozen or reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread is the perfect combination of soft, buttery brioche and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl. Each slice is a delightful treat, whether enjoyed fresh, toasted, or with a smear of butter. The raisins add a subtle chewiness, making every bite irresistible.
Baking this bread is a true labor of love, but the result is worth every step. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to follow my Pinterest account, Ava Foodie, for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration!
