Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? Do you dream of that perfect golden-brown crust, yielding to a soft, tender interior studded with juicy raisins? Then look no further! This recipe for Pain aux Raisins, or raisin bread, is your ticket to homemade happiness. It's surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a delicious loaf that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple yet satisfying snack. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating that light and airy texture we all love in our bread.
Mixing the Dough:
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Stir in the salt and olive oil. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry about perfection at this stage; a little bit messy is okay!
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Kneading helps develop the gluten in the flour, giving your bread its structure.
Adding the Raisins:
- Gently fold in the raisins. Be careful not to overwork the dough at this point.
First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this!
Shaping and Second Rise (Proofing):
- Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oval loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover again with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from getting soggy.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Add other dried fruits: Try cranberries, chopped apricots, or a mix of dried fruits.
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Make it sweeter: Increase the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Use different flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 3-4g
This easy recipe for Pain aux Raisins is a wonderful addition to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and savor every bite of this delightful bread. It's perfect for sharing with family and friends!