Raisin Delight: A Sweet Baking Wonder
Indulge in the warm, sweet flavors of this delightful raisin bread. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it s quick to prepare and simply delicious!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups raisins
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients and raisins.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually mix in the cream.
- Quickly combine the wet and dry mixtures, ensuring minimal mixing to activate the baking powder. Pour into a buttered bread-loaf pan or an 8x8 glass dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check for doneness with a tester; it should come out clean. For the 8x8 dish, check around 35 minutes.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 200 calories per serving.
raisin, baking, dessert, quick recipe, sweet treat, easy bread, homemade
Recipe Overview
Difficulty Level: Easy
Equipment Needed: Mixing bowls, measuring cups, whisk, loaf pan or 8x8 glass dish, oven.
Kitchen Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing; use fresh raisins for enhanced flavor.
Make-Ahead Options: The batter can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; consider baking the bread the night before for a fresh breakfast.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Quality Selection Guide: Choose plump, moist raisins without any added preservatives; for flour, opt for all-purpose or a blend for a unique texture.
Storage Tips: Store leftover bread in an airtight container; for long-term, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
Substitutions: Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup; use yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Measurement Conversions: 1 cup of sugar = 200 grams, 1 cup of flour = 120 grams, 1 stick of butter = 113 grams.
Expert Techniques
Professional Tips: Use a light hand when mixing to prevent dense bread; consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor.
Common Mistakes: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough bread; ensure the oven is preheated to avoid uneven baking.
Visual Cues: Look for a golden brown crust and a firm, springy texture when the bread is done.
Equipment Alternatives: If you don t have a loaf pan, a muffin tin can be used to create raisin muffins.
Serving & Presentation
Plating Suggestions: Serve warm, sliced, and dusted with powdered sugar; pair with a dollop of whipped cream.
Food Pairing: Complement with fresh fruits or a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Portion Guidelines: Cut into 8 equal slices for balanced servings; adjust according to preference.
Special Occasions: Ideal for brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations as a sweet centerpiece.
Nutrition & Health
Detailed Nutrition: Each serving contains approximately 200 calories, with 5 grams of protein and 8 grams of fat.
Health Benefits: Raisins are a good source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health.
Dietary Considerations: Can be made gluten-free using almond or coconut flour; check for egg substitutes if needed.
Wellness Tips: Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet; consider pairing with nuts for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For quick snacks, microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Ensure proper cooling before storing to prevent bacteria growth.
Variations & Adaptations
Try seasonal versions by using dried cranberries in the fall or fresh blueberries in the summer.
For dietary needs, substitute gluten-free flour and use almond milk instead of cream.
Scaling this recipe is easy; simply multiply ingredients by the number of servings desired.
Reduce costs by using store-brand ingredients or by making your own heavy cream with milk and butter.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Common issues include bread being too dry or overcooked.
If the bread is dry, try reducing baking time or adding a touch more cream.
For an overcooked result, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; use an oven thermometer.
Manage time efficiently by prepping the mixture in advance and baking just before serving.
Community & Sharing
This recipe is ideal for gatherings or potlucks, serving warm slices with butter.
Raisin bread has historical significance in many cultures, often linked to celebrations.
This version of raisin bread is inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations.
For batch cooking, double the recipe and freeze half for later enjoyment.
