Wholesome and Delicious: Whole Wheat Raisin Bread Recipe

Aromatic, hearty, and packed with nutrients, whole wheat raisin bread is a wholesome treat that satisfies both the taste buds and the body. This delightful bread combines the goodness of whole wheat flour with the natural sweetness of raisins, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. In this article, we'll present a clear and concise recipe for making whole wheat raisin bread at home, ensuring a fresh and nutritious loaf every time.

Ingredients

To prepare whole wheat raisin bread, you'll need the following ingredients:

whole wheat raisin bread recipe

  • 3 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (approximately 110°F/45°C)
  • ½ cup raisins (you can adjust the amount according to your preference)
  • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon for added flavor

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make delicious whole wheat raisin bread:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, honey or maple syrup, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast.
  2. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

whole wheat raisin bread recipe

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, salt, and optional cinnamon.
  2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil or melted butter.
  3. Stir the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  2. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Raisins

  1. Flatten the kneaded dough into a rectangle.
  2. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the surface of the dough.
  3. Roll the dough into a tight log, ensuring that the raisins are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

  1. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, seam side down.
  2. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Slice the cooled whole wheat raisin bread and serve it plain, toasted, or with your favorite spreads. Enjoy the delicious aroma and wholesome flavor of homemade bread!

Conclusion

Homemade whole wheat raisin bread is a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal or snack time. With this simple recipe, you can create a fresh loaf of bread that's perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own. Embrace the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour and the natural sweetness of raisins with each bite of this delicious bread.




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