If you have been dreaming of a warm, comforting loaf that blends the sweet warmth of cinnamon with juicy bursts of raisins and requires almost no hands-on effort, this No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a simple, fuss-free way to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and your plate with irresistibly tender, slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you want a little cozy treat. Plus, the no knead method means even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe keeps things delightfully simple with pantry staples that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating that soft, fluffy crumb and the perfect cinnamon-sweet swirl.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, tender bread with just the right structure.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps with that beautiful browning.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors while balancing sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast: The magic that makes your dough rise effortlessly over time.
- 1/2 cup raisins: Natural bursts of juicy sweetness that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast and helps create a soft dough.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the entire dough with that warm, inviting spice.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Used for the cinnamon swirl, this rich sugar adds depth and caramel notes.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Paired with brown sugar to create the perfect cinnamon swirl to delight each bite.
How to Make No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Start by combining the flour, granulated sugar, salt, yeast, raisins, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. These dry ingredients create your flavorful base. Then, gradually add the warm water while stirring, until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. This slow fermentation is the secret that gives the bread its airy texture and complex flavor without any kneading.
Step 2: Prepare for Baking
Once your dough has risen and is bubbly, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top. Gently fold the dough a few times to distribute those sweet, spicy swirls throughout the loaf. This step ensures every slice bursts with cinnamon goodness.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Cover it loosely with a towel and let it rest for 30 to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside — this is the key to that golden, crusty exterior everyone loves.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Carefully transfer the dough (on the parchment) into the hot Dutch oven, cover it with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. This two-stage baking traps steam, which creates that perfect crust and tender crumb.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your loaf from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is essential for the bread to set properly and for the best slicing experience. Then, slice, share, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light spread of butter or cream cheese instantly elevates this bread. For extra indulgence, try a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Fresh fruit or a smear of nut butter also pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and raisin flavors, making each bite a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This bread is versatile enough to accompany breakfast plates or afternoon tea. Think alongside a fresh fruit salad, creamy yogurt, or a rich cup of coffee or chai. It also pairs delightfully with sharp cheeses for a brunch spread that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try toasting thick slices and turning them into cinnamon raisin bread French toast topped with maple syrup and whipped cream. You could also use it for an unforgettable bread pudding or cut it into cubes for a sweet crouton topping on salads or desserts. The options are as limitless as your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe fresh, store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust from getting too hard, while the inside stays soft and flavorful.
Freezing
If you’ve made a large batch or want to save some for later, freeze slices or the whole loaf wrapped in foil and sealed in a zip-top bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months without sacrificing the lovely texture or flavor.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen bread at room temperature and reheat slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and a slight crisp to the crust that you’ll adore.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast, but you’ll need to adjust the amount to about three times the weight of instant yeast and dissolve it in warm water first. Instant yeast is more convenient and works perfectly for the slow-rise method in this recipe.
Do I have to use a Dutch oven to bake this bread?
A Dutch oven helps create the steam needed for a crusty exterior, but if you don’t have one, you can use a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid or place a pan of water in the oven to generate steam during baking.
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or cherries all make delicious alternatives, giving your bread a different twist while keeping the sweet and chewy texture intact.
What if I forget to preheat the Dutch oven?
Preheating is crucial for that initial burst of heat that puffs up the bread and forms the crust. If skipped, the loaf may not rise as well or develop the signature crust, so it’s best to plan ahead and preheat properly.
Is this bread suitable for sandwiches?
Definitely! The No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe produces slices that are sturdy enough for sandwiches, especially those with sweeter fillings like cream cheese and jam, although it’s equally wonderful simply toasted or spread with butter.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about pulling a warm loaf of cinnamon-swirled, raisin-studded bread from your own oven with barely any effort. This No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite homemade comfort food that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.
Print
No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 12 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This No Knead Cinnamon Raisin Bread is a simple and flavorful homemade loaf that requires minimal effort. Featuring a tender crumb studded with plump raisins and a delightful cinnamon swirl, this bread is perfect for breakfast or snacking. The dough is left to ferment overnight for maximum flavor and baked in a Dutch oven for a beautifully crisp crust.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, instant yeast, raisins, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the dry ingredients and flavorings are evenly distributed.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the warm water (about 110°F/45°C) to the dry mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. During this time, the dough will become bubbly and double in size, developing flavor and texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the risen dough out onto it. Evenly sprinkle the mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon over the dough to create the cinnamon swirl.
- Distribute Cinnamon Swirl: Gently fold the dough a few times, incorporating the cinnamon sugar mixture within and creating swirls of cinnamon flavor throughout the loaf without deflating the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Shape the dough into a round loaf. Place it on a sheet of parchment paper and loosely cover it. Let the dough rest for 30 to 45 minutes to rise again while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside to heat up.
- Bake the Bread: Carefully transfer the dough on the parchment paper into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and bake for 30 minutes. This covered baking steams the bread for a soft crumb and beautiful rise.
- Finish Baking: Remove the lid and continue to bake the bread for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is a rich, golden brown color and crisp to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to retain its structure and flavor.
Notes
- Using a Dutch oven is key for creating a perfect crispy crust and soft interior; if unavailable, use a heavy oven-safe pot with a lid.
- For best flavor, allow the dough to ferment the full 12-18 hours.
- Adjust raisins quantity as desired or substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries.
- Ensure water is warm, not hot, to activate yeast without killing it.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
