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Golden-brown homemade cinnamon swirl raisin bread in a loaf pan, sliced to show the visible brown sugar and cinnamon ribbon running through the soft white bread

Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread

This soft, fragrant homemade cinnamon swirl raisin bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Toast it with butter for the ultimate comfort bite!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup raisins
Cinnamon Swirl Filling
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter melted (for brushing)

Equipment

  • Loaf Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Rolling Pin

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add softened butter, salt, and half of the flour. Mix until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Knead in the raisins.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 9x15 inches. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture.
  6. Roll the dough tightly into a log starting from the short side and pinch the seam to seal.
  7. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 45–60 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown. Cool before slicing.

Notes

For extra flavor, soak the raisins in warm water or rum for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. Store bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer freshness.