Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread: 7 Simple Steps to Delight

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Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a delightful dessert that has warmed hearts for generations. With its rich aromas of cinnamon and the sweetness of raisins, it makes for an irresistible treat. This easy recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a cozy dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. Let’s dive in and explore how to create this comforting classic.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

This Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also delivers several benefits:

It’s a fantastic way to use up stale bread, reducing food waste.
Rich in flavor, this dish combines spices and sweetness, making it a comforting treat.
It serves as both a delicious breakfast option and a delightful dessert.
This recipe is easily customizable with nuts or different dried fruits.
It’s suitable for vegetarians, aligning with many dietary preferences.
It can be prepared ahead of time, perfect for busy mornings or gatherings.

With its American roots and a reputation for being a popular comfort food, this recipe stands out as one of the best cinnamon raisin bread recipes available.

Ingredients for Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Gather these items:

6 cups stale bread, cubed
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 cup raisins

How to Make Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, add the cubed stale bread and set it aside.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture over the cubed bread, ensuring that all pieces are soaked. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Gently fold in the raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 7: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until set and slightly golden on top.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Step 9: Serve warm, plain or with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips for the Best Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Keep these in mind:

This recipe uses stale bread for the best texture.
Feel free to add nuts or other dried fruits for extra flavor.
For a healthier option, consider using whole grain bread or reducing the sugar.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens may vary, and you want a slightly golden top.

Best Ways to Serve Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Consider these serving ideas:

Enjoy it warm as a comforting breakfast.
Pair it with cinnamon raisin bread with cream cheese for a delightful twist.
Top with fresh fruits or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

How to Store and Reheat Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up or bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This dish is also excellent for meal prep; you can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread?

The secret lies in using stale bread, which absorbs the wet ingredients beautifully, creating a moist cinnamon raisin quick bread that’s bursting with flavor.

Can I make Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before you plan to serve it, making it an easy dessert for gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread?

Ensure your bread is adequately stale; fresh bread can become mushy. Also, don’t skip letting it soak long enough—this is key for achieving the desired texture.

Variations of Comforting Cinnamon Raisin Bread You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

For a vegan cinnamon raisin bread recipe, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk.
Experiment with gluten-free options by using a gluten-free bread alternative.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a more indulgent twist.
Mix in different dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet flavor explosion.