Whole Wheat Raisin Bread
Whole wheat raisin bread with cinnamon and maraschino cherries offers a hearty, naturally sweet flavor perfect for breakfast or snacks, appealing to bread lovers and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat maple syrup, oil, and water until lukewarm, 120° to 125°F.
- In a large bowl, combine bread flour, dry yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add eggs and the warm liquid mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Beat with an electric beater for 2 minutes until well blended.
- Stir in whole wheat flour, raisins, and maraschino cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts or substituting the raisins with dried cranberries. For a twist, try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger to the mix, which can pair beautifully with this raisin bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Whole Wheat Raisin Bread warm with butter or cream cheese for breakfast or as a snack. It pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. For a delightful dessert, consider serving it alongside Chocolate Rice Pudding or as a base for French toast. It also makes a wonderful addition to a brunch spread, complementing savory dishes nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm slices in a toaster or oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Wheat Raisin Bread contains roughly 999 calories, with 24g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1118mg per serving (49% 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 a bread machine for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a bread machine! Simply add the ingredients in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Use the whole wheat setting for optimal results. This allows for consistent mixing and kneading, ensuring a perfectly risen loaf.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, or substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This will keep the bread moist and delicious while making it suitable for a vegan diet.
How can I make this bread less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the amount of maple syrup by a third or substitute it with unsweetened applesauce, which will also add moisture. You can also omit the maraschino cherries, as they contribute extra sweetness, allowing the natural flavor of the whole wheat and raisins to shine through.
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).