Easy Bread with Raisins Recipe: Homemade Delight

A delightful bread with raisins recipe offers a simple yet rewarding baking experience. This recipe balances the wholesome nature of bread with the sweetness of raisins, creating a treat suitable for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack. The process, while involving several steps, is straightforward and accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The resulting loaf boasts a pleasant texture and flavor profile, making it a versatile addition to any meal. This detailed guide will explore the ingredients, instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips for achieving the perfect bread with raisins recipe outcome.

The foundation of any successful bread with raisins recipe lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using fresh, high-quality flour and yeast ensures a light and airy texture. The type of raisins chosen also impacts the final flavor; plump, juicy raisins offer a richer sweetness compared to smaller, drier varieties. Proper kneading is crucial for developing gluten, resulting in a more robust loaf. Careful attention to fermentation time allows for optimal flavor development and rise. The precise measurements are paramount for achieving the desired outcome, as even slight deviations can affect the bread’s consistency and taste.

A well-executed bread with raisins recipe showcases the beautiful interplay of textures and tastes. The soft, chewy interior contrasts delightfully with the slightly crisp crust, and the bursts of sweetness from the raisins complement the subtly earthy flavor of the bread. The recipe’s versatility allows for customization; additions like nuts, spices, or citrus zest can easily elevate the experience. Furthermore, the recipe’s relatively simple method allows even novice bakers to create a delicious and satisfying loaf, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Ingredients for a Bread with Raisins Recipe

• 500g strong bread flour
• 7g active dry yeast
• 300ml lukewarm water
• 10g salt
• 50g granulated sugar
• 150g raisins
• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)

Instructions for a Bread with Raisins Recipe

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate raisins into the dough.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
7. Place the loaf in a greased loaf pan.
8. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200F (93C).
11. Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Estimated Baking Time and Servings for this Bread with Raisins Recipe

This table summarizes the estimated baking time and the number of servings this recipe yields. Understanding these metrics is vital for proper planning and portioning when preparing this bread with raisins recipe. Accurate time management and yield prediction contribute to a smoother baking process and help avoid potential issues such as over- or underbaking.

Nutritional Information for a Bread with Raisins Recipe

This bread with raisins recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates for sustained energy. The flour contributes essential nutrients, while the raisins add natural sugars and fiber. The nutritional content can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used; however, this recipe generally delivers a balance of macronutrients. A complete nutritional analysis would require precise ingredient specifications and detailed calculations using a nutritional database.

Please note that the following nutritional information is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and their quantities used.

Tips for Baking a Bread with Raisins Recipe

Mastering this bread with raisins recipe involves understanding subtle nuances that elevate the final product. Consistent attention to detail throughout the process ensures a delightful outcome, reflecting the care and precision invested. These refined techniques will assist in producing a consistently high-quality loaf.

1. Use high-quality ingredients:

   Opting for quality flour and yeast directly impacts the final texture and flavor of the bread. Fresh, plump raisins contribute significantly to both the taste and visual appeal. Using high-quality ingredients is a cornerstone of successful baking, ensuring the best possible result.

2. Proper kneading:

   Thorough kneading develops gluten, giving the bread its structure and chewiness. Insufficient kneading results in a dense loaf, while over-kneading can make it tough. Finding the right balance is crucial for achieving the ideal texture.

3. Accurate measurements:

   Precise measurements of ingredients are critical for consistency and predictable results. Using a kitchen scale ensures accuracy, especially when it comes to flour and yeast. Minor deviations can impact the final outcome, affecting both texture and flavor.

4. Controlled fermentation:

   Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential for flavor development and a light texture. Monitor the rising process closely, adjusting the environment as needed to ensure optimal conditions. Proper fermentation is a cornerstone of good bread-making.

5. Even baking:
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   Rotating the loaf halfway through baking ensures even browning and cooking. Monitoring the internal temperature with a thermometer guarantees that the bread is fully baked before removing from the oven. Careful attention during baking ensures a consistently baked loaf.

6. Proper cooling:

   Allowing the bread to cool completely on a wire rack prevents it from becoming soggy. Patience during the cooling phase allows the internal structure to fully set, ensuring the bread maintains its ideal texture. This step is crucial for preserving the texture and flavor.

The art of preparing a successful bread with raisins recipe hinges on attention to detail and a nuanced understanding of baking principles. Each stage of the process, from ingredient selection to cooling, contributes to the final product’s quality and appeal. Mastering this recipe unlocks a world of flavor and texture combinations.

Beyond the technical aspects, there’s a profound satisfaction derived from creating something wholesome and delicious from simple ingredients. This recipe embodies the heart of home baking simple ingredients transformed into a rewarding, aromatic loaf. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with a traditional craft, while also indulging in a delightful treat.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Bread with Raisins Recipe

Understanding the common queries surrounding this recipe ensures a successful baking process and clarifies any potential uncertainties. Addressing these questions proactively contributes to a smoother experience and allows for greater confidence in the overall procedure.

1. Can I use different types of raisins?

   Yes, various types of raisins can be used, each imparting a slightly different flavor and texture. Golden raisins offer a milder sweetness, while dark raisins provide a more intense flavor. Experimentation is encouraged to discover your preferred raisin type. The choice ultimately influences the final flavor profile of the bread.

2. What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

   Insufficient rising might be due to several factors, including old yeast, incorrect water temperature, or inadequate kneading. Ensuring the yeast is fresh and active, using lukewarm water (not hot or cold), and adequately kneading the dough are crucial steps. Environmental factors like temperature and drafts can also impact rising.

3. How do I know when the bread is done?

   The bread is ready when it’s golden brown, and an internal thermometer registers 200F (93C). Tapping the bottom of the loaf should produce a hollow sound. Overbaking can result in a dry loaf, while underbaking will yield a gummy texture. Careful monitoring and the use of a thermometer are essential.

4. Can I store leftovers?

   Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for longer storage. Freezing the bread helps to preserve its freshness and texture. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of the baked goods.

Creating a perfect bread with raisins recipe is a rewarding experience, blending precise technique with culinary creativity. Understanding the subtle nuances of the baking process elevates the final product, transforming it from a simple loaf into a delightful culinary achievement.

The satisfying aroma of freshly baked bread, coupled with the sweet bursts of raisins, offers a sensory experience that extends beyond mere sustenance. This recipe serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple baking, creating a memorable and flavorful treat.

In conclusion, this detailed guide provides comprehensive instructions and insights for creating a delicious and satisfying bread with raisins. Through careful attention to detail, anyone can master this recipe and enjoy the delightful results.