Are you dreaming of warm, comforting homemade bread, bursting with sweet raisins and a perfectly crisp crust? Forget the long kneading sessions and messy countertops! This easy raisin bread recipe is designed for your bread machine, delivering delicious results with minimal effort. It's the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, weekend baking projects, or anyone wanting to enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade bread without the fuss. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Bread Machine:
Grease your bread machine pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your beautiful loaf.
Step 2: Adding Ingredients:
Add the warm water, sugar, and yeast to your bread machine pan. Allow the yeast to activate for about 5 minutes – you should see some foaming action. This ensures your bread will rise properly. Then, add the salt, softened butter, and egg. Finally, add the flour and raisins.
Step 3: Selecting the Bread Machine Setting:
Select the "dough" or "basic" setting on your bread machine. Most machines have a setting specifically for raisin bread, but if not, the dough setting will work perfectly. Allow the machine to knead and rise according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about an hour and a half to two hours.
Step 4: Baking the Bread:
Once the first rise is complete, your bread machine will typically automatically switch to the bake setting. This process takes approximately one hour.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving:
Once baking is finished, carefully remove the warm loaf from the bread machine pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Slice and enjoy your homemade raisin bread!
Tips for the Perfect Raisin Bread:
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your yeast is fresh. If it doesn't foam after 5 minutes, it's likely inactive and needs replacing.
- Raisin Distribution: To prevent the raisins from all sinking to the bottom, toss them lightly in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the bread machine.
- Crust Control: For a softer crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter after baking. For a crispier crust, bake for a few extra minutes.
- Storage: Store your raisin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Variations:
- Nutty Raisin Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Spiced Raisin Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Cranberry Raisin Bread: Replace some or all of the raisins with dried cranberries for a delightful tartness.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 4-6g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 25-30g Fiber: 2-3g
This easy bread machine recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy homemade raisin bread. It's a perfect example of quick dinner ideas, homemade cooking, and the best recipes for busy individuals. Enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of this classic treat, made simple with your bread machine!