Raisin Twisted Bread Recipe

Raisin Twisted Bread is a delightful and flavorful baked treat that combines the rich, sweet taste of raisins with the soft and airy texture of twisted bread. This delicious pastry is often enjoyed as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert.The bread dough is typically enriched with ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk, creating a soft and tender crumb. Raisins, which are dried grapes, add natural sweetness and chewiness to the bread, enhancing both its taste and texture. The twisted design not only makes the bread visually appealing but also creates layers that can be pulled apart, making it easy to enjoy the bread in bite-sized pieces.

• Here’s a simple recipe for Raisin Twisted Bread:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
• While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining the raisins, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 16×20 inches.
• Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Starting from one of the longer sides, roll the dough into a log.
• Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise, leaving about an inch uncut at the top.
• Twist the two pieces around each other, creating a braided effect. Pinch the ends together.
• Place the twisted bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Bake the twisted bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
• While the bread is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Once the bread is done, let it cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
• Slice and enjoy your delicious Raisin Twisted Bread!

Feel free to adjust the filling or glaze to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade bread!

Important Tips For Raisin Twisted Bread

Raisin twisted bread can be a delicious and enjoyable treat. Here are some important tips to help you achieve the best results when making raisin twisted bread:

Quality Ingredients:

• Use high-quality bread flour for a better texture and rise.
• Choose fresh and plump raisins for sweetness and moisture.

Yeast Activation:

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.

Dough Consistency:

• Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives the bread structure.
• The dough should be soft, smooth, and elastic. It should spring back when gently pressed.

Raisin Distribution:

• Distribute the raisins evenly throughout the dough during the mixing process to ensure a uniform sweetness in each bite.

Soaking Raisins:

• Soak the raisins in warm water or fruit juice before incorporating them into the dough. This helps to prevent them from drawing moisture from the bread during baking.

Flavor Enhancers:

• Add flavor enhancers like cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the sweetness of the raisins.

Proper Rising:

• Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment. This is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.

Twisting Technique:

• Roll out the dough evenly and twist it carefully to achieve an attractive appearance.
• Be gentle when twisting to avoid tearing the dough.

Egg Wash:

• Brush the surface of the twisted bread with an egg wash before baking to give it a shiny, golden-brown finish.

Baking Temperature and Time:

• Preheat your oven adequately.
• Bake at the recommended temperature, and keep an eye on the bread to prevent over-baking.

Cooling:

• Allow the raisin twisted bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps to set the crumb and enhances the overall texture.

Storage:

• Store the bread in an airtight container or plastic wrap to retain freshness. If you plan to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing.

Experiment and Customize:

• Feel free to experiment with different types of raisins, nuts, or other additions to customize the flavor to your liking.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try variations and adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your baking!