Raisin Brown Bread
A hearty raisin brown bread with sweet raisins and a rich, moist texture, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to bread lovers and those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine raisins and 2 cups of water in a bowl and let set on the counter, covered with a plastic bag, overnight.
- In the morning, drain the raisins and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla, salt, and warm water.
- Stir in 2 3/4 cups of flour and soda until well blended.
- Add the drained raisins and enough remaining flour (up to 10-12 cups) to make a stiff dough.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Punch down the dough and shape into loaves.
- Place in greased loaf pans and let rise until nearly doubled, about 1 hour.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven, cool slightly, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with applesauce. If you want a healthier alternative, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Be sure to knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which ensures a great texture. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. This bread pairs beautifully with U Love It Pudding, enhancing your dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Raisin Brown Bread is delightful served warm with butter or cream cheese. It also makes a great base for French toast or a delicious sandwich. Consider pairing it with a warm bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a sweet treat, enjoy it with a slice of Monroe'S Pecan Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Brown Bread contains roughly 4222 calories, with 53g protein, 467g carbohydrates, and 225g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (106% of the Daily Value), iron (105% of the Daily Value), and potassium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or currants. Just chop larger fruits into smaller pieces for even distribution throughout the bread. Each fruit will give a unique flavor profile, adding a personal touch to the recipe.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and check the temperature of your water; it should be warm, not hot. You can also try letting it rise in a warmer spot, like an oven with the light on, to encourage fermentation.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just take it out to come to room temperature before shaping and letting it rise again. This makes it convenient for special occasions or busy mornings!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).