If you have ever dreamed of filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread without spending hours kneading dough, the No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe is here to turn that dream into reality. This bread brings together the perfect balance of sweet cinnamon and plump raisins, wrapped in a delightfully tender yet crusty loaf, all with minimal effort. It’s ideal for anyone craving homemade comfort that feels both rustic and a little indulgent. Trust me, this bread will have you hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about the No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe is how it uses simple pantry staples to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays a key role in developing its texture, flavor, and inviting color, making the baking process approachable and enjoyable.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the cinnamon and raisins.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the yeast in check.
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast: The magic behind the rise, making the dough bubbly without any kneading.
- 1/2 cup raisins: Juicy bursts of natural sweetness that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm spice notes.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Used later to create the gorgeous cinnamon swirl inside.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Combined with brown sugar for an irresistible cinnamon ribbon.
How to Make No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Start by combining the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, instant yeast, raisins, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that every bite will have a balanced flavor and that the raisins distribute evenly throughout the loaf.
Step 2: Add Warm Water and Rest
Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring the mixture to form a shaggy, sticky dough. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. During this slow fermentation, the yeast works its magic, making the dough bubbly and doubling its size. This long rest is what makes kneading unnecessary.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface to prevent sticking. Sprinkle the brown sugar and remaining 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon evenly over the dough. This mixture will create the signature cinnamon swirl inside each slice.
Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
Gently fold the dough a few times to mix in the cinnamon and brown sugar without deflating all the air bubbles. This technique distributes the sweet cinnamon ribbons beautifully throughout the loaf.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Cover it again and allow it to rest for 30 to 45 minutes while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven heating inside. This resting lets the dough relax and prepare for its final rise.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Carefully transfer the dough on the parchment paper into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover it with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Baking in a covered pot traps steam, which is essential for a crusty, golden exterior.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is a beautiful golden brown with a slight crunch, which contrasts perfectly with the soft, cinnamon-swirled interior.
Step 8: Cool Before Slicing
Take the bread out of the Dutch oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Cooling allows the steam to escape and keeps the loaf from becoming soggy inside, ensuring each slice is as perfect as it looks.
How to Serve No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing beats a light spread of creamy butter on a warm slice of this cinnamon raisin bread. For an extra touch, dusting with a pinch of powdered sugar or drizzling a little honey or maple syrup enhances the sweetness and presentation.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming bowl of spiced chai tea or a simple cup of coffee. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to creamy cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta for a brunch spread that’s both comforting and impressive.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond slices by toasting the bread and topping it with cream cheese and fresh fruit or even turning it into French toast for a decadent breakfast treat. The cinnamon and raisins elevate classic recipes to something special every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread soft and the crust from becoming too hard.
Freezing
If you want to keep the magic going longer, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just toast slices straight from the freezer for a fresh-baked taste anytime.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster or oven to bring back their that fresh-from-the-oven warmth and crustiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast, but you’ll want to use about two and a half times the amount and dissolve it in the warm water before mixing it into the flour. Adjust the rising time as needed since fresh yeast can be a bit more active.
Do I have to use a Dutch oven for baking?
While a Dutch oven helps achieve the perfect crust by trapping steam, you can use a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid or even bake the bread on a baking stone with a pan of water below to create steam. Just keep an eye on the bake time and crust color.
Can I omit the raisins?
Absolutely! The recipe works well without raisins if you prefer a pure cinnamon bread or want to substitute with other dried fruits like chopped dates, cranberries, or even nuts for a crunchy texture.
Is it necessary to let the dough rest for so long?
The extended resting time is crucial for the no-knead method. It allows gluten to develop gently and flavors to deepen without physical kneading, resulting in that perfect light, chewy texture.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Look for a deep golden brown crust, and if you tap the bottom of the loaf, it should sound hollow. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C) for fully baked bread.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly gratifying about making homemade bread without the fuss, and the No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe is a beautiful example of ease meeting deliciousness. It’s perfect for sharing with family or gifting to friends because everyone deserves to experience that sweet swirl of cinnamon and the comforting softness of fresh bread. I hope you enjoy baking it as much as I do!
