Raisin Casserole Bread
A soft, flavorful raisin bread casserole with a hint of sweetness and warm yeast aroma, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk; stir in sugar, salt, and margarine and cool to lukewarm.
- Measure warm water into a large warm bowl.
- Sprinkle or crumble in the yeast; stir until dissolved.
- Stir in the lukewarm milk mixture, egg, and 3 cups of flour; beat until smooth.
- Stir in the remaining flour to make a stiff batter.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
- Stir the batter down.
- Beat in the raisins.
- Turn the batter into 2 greased 1-quart casseroles.
- Bake in a moderate oven (350°F) for about 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of regular milk. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise; if in doubt, proof it by mixing with warm water and sugar before adding it to the recipe. For added texture, try incorporating chopped nuts or cinnamon into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This Raisin Casserole Bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter. It pairs beautifully with Jell0-Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a hearty soup or salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat or as a comforting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Raisin Casserole Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Casserole Bread contains roughly 1141 calories, with 14g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1929mg per serving (84% 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 different types of raisins?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of raisins, like golden or sultana raisins, for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and texture may vary slightly. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try adding a mix of dried fruits for added flavor and nutrition.
What if my bread doesn't rise?
If your bread doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the water you use is warm but not hot, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast. If the dough still doesn't rise, try placing it in a warmer environment, like an oven with just the light on for warmth.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this Raisin Casserole Bread vegan, substitute the milk with almond or soy milk and replace margarine with a plant-based butter. You can also use a flax or chia egg in place of the egg for binding. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this comforting bread.
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).