Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe

If you're craving something warm, cozy, and effortlessly delightful, this Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's one of those easy treats I love to whip up when I want a comforting snack that fills the kitchen with a toasty aroma and delivers a soft, tender crumb studded with sweet raisins and a swirl of cinnamon. Whether you're baking for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a simple dessert, this quick bread will become a favorite in no time.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Ingredient Game Plan
• How to Cook Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe
• Pro Moves I Swear By
• Serve It Up
• Make-Ahead & Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts
• Complete Recipe

Ingredient Game Plan

Before we dive in, let's talk about choosing the right ingredients to get the best results with this Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe. Using quality basics and understanding their role makes all the difference in texture and flavor.

• All-purpose flour: Make sure it's fresh and sifted if it's lumpy for an even batter.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works great, but you can experiment with a bit of brown sugar for extra moisture and depth.
• Baking soda: Check it's fresh - old baking soda can make your bread flat.
• Buttermilk: Adds acidity that reacts with the baking soda to create a light texture, plus a subtle tanginess.
• Raisins: Plump ones soak up moisture and burst with sweetness - soak them briefly in warm water if they're too dry.
• Ground cinnamon: Use freshly ground if possible - it really brightens up the flavor.
• Canola oil: Keeps the bread moist but neutral, letting the cinnamon and raisins shine.
• Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better, promoting a tender crumb.

How to Cook Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1 - Prep & Season

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 8x4-inch loaf pans. This simple step ensures a smooth release later - I often line mine with parchment paper for extra insurance. Then, in a large bowl, mix together the flour, 1½ cups of sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and you see a uniform pale color dusted with cinnamon. Getting this base right will help your bread rise evenly and taste balanced.

Step 2 - Build Flavor

Whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and canola oil in a separate bowl until smooth and slightly frothy. When you carefully fold this into your dry ingredients, stop the moment the batter is just moistened - a few dry spots are okay. Overmixing here is the enemy of tender crumb, so it's perfectly fine to see a little resistance and a bit of flour swirled in. Next, gently fold in the raisins, distributing them evenly without smashing them. Then, mix the leftover ½ cup sugar with 3 teaspoons cinnamon for the final touch-this cinnamon sugar will give the bread its signature warm swirls and a hint of texture.

Step 3 - Finish for Best Texture

Spoon half the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pans, then sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Now here's a little trick - use a sharp knife to gently cut through the batter in a swirling motion, creating those beautiful marbled ribbons of cinnamon sweetness. Pop the pans into your oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden with slightly crisp edges. Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely - cutting too soon can make it crumble.

Serve It Up

Finishing Touches

I like to spread a thin layer of butter on the warm slices - it melts into the nooks and adds a silky richness that complements the cinnamon and raisins beautifully. For an extra indulgence, a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey brings a luscious balance to the gentle spice and sweet fruit.

Great Pairings

This quick bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk. For a balanced breakfast or snack, add a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt to contrast the sweet and spicy bread with fresh, tangy notes and added texture.

Easy Plating Wins

For a casual occasion, simply stack slices on a wooden board with a butter dish. If you're serving guests, arrange slices standing upright in a basket lined with a patterned napkin, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar on top for a cozy, inviting look.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for 2 days, or up to 5 days in the fridge. You'll notice it stays moist but firm enough to slice without crumbling-perfect for quick breakfasts all week long.

Freezer Notes

This quick bread freezes very well. Slice it first if you like, then wrap each slice in plastic and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. When you want a slice, simply thaw at room temperature or toast straight from frozen. The flavor and texture hold up nicely, making it a great option for meal prep or stocking.

Reheating Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe Without Drying Out

To warm up slices, I prefer a quick toast to bring out the cinnamon aroma and soften the bread's edges. If using the microwave, wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and heat for 15-20 seconds to keep moisture locked in. In a toaster oven or air fryer, a minute or two at 300°F works beautifully to warm without drying out or burning.

Final Thoughts

I love how this Cinnamon Raisin Quick Bread Recipe brings a little extra comfort to any day without demanding a lot of time or fancy ingredients. You'll enjoy how the cinnamon swirls surprise with each bite and how the raisins add sweet pockets of joy. It's the kind of recipe you'll find yourself reaching for again and again - a true kitchen companion that feels like a warm hug fresh from the oven.

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Complete Recipe