Raisin (Easter) Bread(6 Loaves)
A rich, sweet Easter bread packed with raisins and tender potatoes, perfect for festive gatherings and family celebrations, offering a delightful, soft crumb and sweet flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the yeast with warm water and let it activate.
- Cook and mash the potato until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted shortening, and eggs.
- Add the mashed potato to the mixture and blend well.
- Gradually add flour, salt, and remaining water, mixing to form a dough.
- Knead in raisins until evenly distributed.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Divide the dough into six loaves and place in greased pans.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use bread flour for a higher protein content, which will yield a better rise. If you don't have fresh yeast, you can substitute with active dry yeast at a ratio of 1:1. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist. Make sure your water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Serving Suggestions
This raisin bread pairs beautifully with a light spread of butter or cream cheese. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast item or a sweet snack throughout the day. Consider serving it alongside a Banana Berry Smoothie for a balanced meal. It also makes a delightful addition to holiday brunches or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin (Easter) Bread(6 Loaves) contains roughly 1387 calories, with 19g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2855mg per serving (124% 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 even a mix of tropical dried fruits for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the total quantity of fruit remains the same for proper moisture balance.
What if my dough isn't rising properly?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your environment. Yeast thrives in warm places, so try placing it in a turned-off oven with the light on or near a warm stovetop. Also, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly before mixing.
How can I make this bread vegan?
To make this raisin bread vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based shortening. You can also replace the water with almond milk for added flavor.
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).