Sourdough Raisin Bread Recipes

 Sourdough Raisin Bread Recipes 

Sourdough raisin bread is a timeless treat that combines the tangy notes of sourdough with the natural sweetness of raisins. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you're a seasoned sourdough baker or a novice, these three recipes will help you create delicious variations of sourdough raisin bread that are sure to impress.  

## Recipe 1: Classic Sourdough Raisin Bread  

This recipe stays true to tradition, delivering a beautifully soft and slightly tangy loaf with bursts of raisin sweetness.  

### Ingredients  

- 1 cup active sourdough starter  

- 1 ½ cups warm water  

- 4 cups bread flour  

- 1 ½ tsp salt  

- 1 cup raisins  

- 2 tbsp honey  

- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)  

### Instructions  

1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, honey, and salt. Stir until the starter is well dissolved. Gradually add the flour and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.  

2. **Incorporate Raisins**: Sprinkle the raisins and cinnamon (if using) over the dough. Gently knead until the raisins are evenly distributed. Avoid over-kneading to preserve the dough’s light texture.  

3. **Bulk Fermentation**: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.  

4. **Shape the Loaf**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a loaf or boule, and place it into a greased loaf pan or proofing basket. Cover and let it proof for another 1–2 hours.  

5. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, preheat it as well. Bake the bread for 20 minutes with the lid on (if using a Dutch oven) or with steam in the oven, then reduce the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes. The loaf is ready when it sounds hollow when tapped.  

6. **Cool**: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.  

This classic recipe delivers a well-balanced bread that’s perfect for toasting and pairing with butter or cream cheese.  

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## Recipe 2: Whole Wheat Sourdough Raisin Bread  

For a healthier twist, this recipe incorporates whole wheat flour, offering a hearty texture and a slightly nutty flavor.  

### Ingredients  

- 1 cup active sourdough starter  

- 1 ¼ cups warm water  

- 2 cups whole wheat flour  

- 1 ½ cups bread flour  

- 1 tsp salt  

- 1 ½ tbsp maple syrup or molasses  

- 1 cup raisins  

- 1 tsp cinnamon  

- ½ tsp nutmeg  

### Instructions  

1. **Mix the Dough**: Combine the sourdough starter, water, and maple syrup or molasses in a bowl. Gradually add the flours, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until a rough dough forms. Let the dough rest for 20–30 minutes.  

2. **Add Raisins**: Sprinkle the raisins over the dough and knead gently to incorporate them evenly. The dough will be slightly sticky but manageable.  

3. **First Rise**: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise at room temperature for 6–8 hours, depending on the temperature. For best results, aim for a warm, draft-free area.  

4. **Shape and Proof**: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into your desired form. Place it in a greased loaf pan or proofing basket. Let it proof for another 2–3 hours, or until puffy.  

5. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bread for 40–45 minutes, checking for a deep golden crust. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read 200°F (93°C).  

6. **Cool and Serve**: Let the bread cool completely before slicing.  

This version is slightly denser but packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a wholesome option for breakfast or snacks.  

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## Recipe 3: Cinnamon Swirl Sourdough Raisin Bread  

Take your sourdough raisin bread to the next level with a cinnamon swirl filling that adds extra sweetness and spice.  

### Ingredients  

**For the Dough**  

- 1 cup active sourdough starter  

- 1 ½ cups warm milk (or plant-based milk)  

- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour  

- ½ cup whole wheat flour  

- 1 tsp salt  

- 3 tbsp sugar  

- 1 cup raisins  

**For the Cinnamon Swirl**  

- 2 tbsp butter, melted  

- 3 tbsp brown sugar  

- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon  

### Instructions  

1. **Prepare the Dough**: Mix the sourdough starter, warm milk, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add the flours and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes, then let the dough rest for 30 minutes.  

2. **Incorporate Raisins**: Add the raisins to the dough and knead until they are evenly distributed. Cover and allow the dough to rise for 4–6 hours, or until doubled in size.  

3. **Make the Swirl**: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.  

4. **Shape the Loaf**: Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log and place it in a greased loaf pan.  

5. **Final Proof**: Cover the loaf and let it proof for 1–2 hours, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.  

6. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).  

7. **Cool and Slice**: Let the bread cool before slicing to reveal the beautiful swirl pattern.  

This cinnamon swirl sourdough raisin bread is a show-stopper and makes for an indulgent breakfast or dessert.  

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## Tips for Sourdough Raisin Bread Success  

1. **Use Active Starter**: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active to achieve a good rise.  

2. **Hydrate the Raisins**: Soak raisins in warm water or juice for 15 minutes before adding them to the dough to prevent them from drying out the bread.  

3. **Adjust Proofing Time**: Sourdough’s proofing times can vary depending on the ambient temperature. Be patient and let the dough rise until it’s doubled in size.  

4. **Experiment with Add-ins**: Enhance your bread with nuts, seeds, or other dried fruits for variety.  

5. **Proper Storage**: Store your bread in a paper bag or bread box to maintain its crust while keeping the interior soft.  

These three sourdough raisin bread recipes cater to different preferences, from the classic tangy-sweet loaf to a hearty whole wheat version and a decadent cinnamon swirl treat. Try one—or all—of them and savor the magic of sourdough baking in your kitchen!  

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