Ingredients
Bread Dough
- 2 cups warm water (between 95-105 degrees F)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 5½-6 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup raisins
Cinnamon Filling
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1½ tablespoons cinnamon
Egg Wash and Finishing
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing after baking)
Instructions
- Grease the pans: Butter two 8.5″ x 4.5″ bread pans thoroughly and set aside to prevent sticking during baking.
- Activate yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let rest for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating it is active.
- Mix dough ingredients: Add avocado oil, salt, eggs, and half the flour into the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook on low speed, mix until combined.
- Incorporate remaining flour and raisins: Gradually add flour one cup at a time while mixing on low. Continue until dough pulls away from the bowl sides and looks smooth. Add raisins and knead on medium speed for 3 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Cover dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Shape dough: Divide the risen dough into two equal portions. Lightly flour your counter and roll each piece into an approximately 8″ x 12″ rectangle, with the shorter side matching the length of the bread pans.
- Prepare cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, combine room temperature melted butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Fill and roll: Spread half of the cinnamon mixture evenly on each dough rectangle. Starting from the short end, roll each dough tightly and pinch the seam to seal. Tuck the ends underneath and place the rolls seam-side down into the greased pans.
- Apply egg wash and second rise: Whisk together the egg and water, then brush a thin, even layer over each loaf. Let the loaves rise again for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake: Place the risen loaves into the oven and bake for 28-30 minutes until golden brown. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer, which should read 195°F in the center.
- Finish the bread: Remove the breads from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust. Cool the loaves in their pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooled, slice and enjoy the warm, fragrant cinnamon raisin bread.
Notes
- Ensure water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading with a stand mixer and dough hook saves effort and produces a smooth dough.
- The second rise is critical for a light, airy texture.
- An instant-read thermometer helps ensure the bread is fully baked without being overdone.
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing incorporation.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
