VHeavenly Raisin Bread: A Comfort Food Classic with a Creamy Twist
The Heartwarming Story Behind Raisin Bread
There’s something magical about a slice of homemade bread that fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. This Raisin Bread with Cottage Cheese is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary hug that brings together the sweet burst of raisins, the creamy richness of cottage cheese, and the comforting softness of freshly baked bread.
Inspired by traditional home baking, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a sweet indulgence any time of day. Each bite tells a story of comfort, tradition, and the simple joy of home cooking.
Ingredients
For the Raisin Bread
Eggs: 2 large
Salt: 1 pinch
Vanilla Sugar: 1 teaspoon (or 1 teaspoon sugar + 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
Granulated Sugar: 100g (1/2 cup)
Butter: 80g (5.6 tablespoons), melted
Cottage Cheese or White Yogurt: 130g (1/2 cup)
All-Purpose Flour: 150g (1 1/4 cups)
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
Raisins: 80g (1/2 cup)
Butter (for greasing): 1 tablespoon
Powdered Sugar: For dusting (to taste)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Batter
Prepare Ingredients
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
Grease a standard loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with 1 tablespoon of butter
Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal
Create the Egg Base
In a large mixing bowl, crack 2 eggs
Add a pinch of salt
Add vanilla sugar (or sugar with vanilla extract)
Beat with an electric mixer or whisk
Continue beating until the mixture becomes light and foamy
Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat
Mix until the mixture is pale and doubles in volume
Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Melt butter and allow to cool slightly
Gently fold melted butter into the egg mixture
Add cottage cheese or white yogurt
Stir until well combined
Ensure no large lumps remain
Add Dry Ingredients
Sift flour and baking powder together
Gradually fold flour mixture into the wet ingredients
Mix until just combined
Do not overmix to keep the bread tender
Fold in raisins, distributing evenly throughout the batter
Bake to Perfection
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan
Spread evenly with a spatula
Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles
Place in preheated oven
Bake for 35-40 minutes
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center
Toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs
Cool and Serve
Remove from oven
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes
Transfer to a wire rack
Allow to cool completely
Dust with powdered sugar
Slice and serve
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/10 of the loaf)
Calories: 220-250
Protein: 5-6g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Fat: 10-12g
Fiber: 1-2g
Calcium: 4-5% of daily value
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes Servings: 10 slices
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
Raisin Tip: Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to prevent burning
Flour Sifting: Sift flour to ensure no lumps and achieve a lighter texture
Mixing Technique: Fold ingredients gently to maintain air in the batter
Evenness: Use a spatula to spread batter evenly in the pan
Moisture Check: Check bread early to prevent over-baking
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend
Dairy-Free Variation: Replace cottage cheese with coconut yogurt
Fruit Alternatives: Swap raisins with cranberries, chopped apricots, or chocolate chips
Spice It Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter
Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or almonds
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese? A: Yes! Greek yogurt works well and provides similar moisture and protein.
Q2: How do I store this raisin bread? A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q3: Can I freeze the bread? A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Q4: My raisins always sink to the bottom. How can I prevent this? A: Toss raisins in a little flour before adding to the batter to help them stay suspended.
Q5: Can I make this bread vegan? A: Use egg replacer, plant-based yogurt, and vegan butter for a similar result.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days
Refrigeration: Keeps well for up to 1 week
Freezing: Freeze whole or in slices for up to 3 months
Reheating: Warm slightly in toaster oven or microwave
Prep Ahead: Mix dry ingredients the night before
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this delightful Raisin Bread—a slice of pure homemade happiness!
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