Sweet Yellow Raisin Bread – A Light and Wholesome Homemade Loaf

This Sweet Yellow Raisin Bread is soft, fluffy, and filled with bursts of natural sweetness from golden raisins. It’s the kind of homemade treat that feels comforting and nostalgic—without going overboard on sugar or calories. Whether toasted for breakfast, enjoyed as an afternoon snack, or served with a cup of tea, this bread delivers simple satisfaction in every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally Sweetened – Yellow raisins bring fruit-forward flavor without the need for added sugars.
Soft & Fluffy Texture – Light enough to enjoy any time of day.
Simple Ingredients – Made with everyday pantry staples.
Versatile – Delicious plain, toasted, or topped with a little light butter or cream cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm skim milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg
• ½ cup yellow (golden) raisins
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
• Nonstick spray or light butter, for greasing

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine both flours, salt, and cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture, applesauce, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Fold in the raisins.

3. Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 20–30 minutes.

5. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Let cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 140
Carbs: 27g
Fat: 2g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Soak Raisins First: For extra plumpness, soak raisins in warm water for 5–10 minutes and drain well.
• Check the Rise: Warm environments help yeast activate properly—try placing the dough in the oven with the light on.
• Store Smart: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, or slice and freeze for future breakfasts.
• Make It Yours: Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or swap in cinnamon raisins for extra flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This loaf is lightly sweet, hearty enough to satisfy, and flexible enough for breakfast or snacking. By blending whole wheat flour, applesauce, and naturally sweet raisins, it balances health with home-baked comfort. No excess sugar, no heavy ingredients—just honest, nourishing flavor.

Sweet Yellow Raisin Bread is the kind of feel-good baking that suits your goals and your cravings. Warm, soft, and gently sweet, it’s ideal for anyone who wants something homemade and wholesome. Enjoy a slice toasted in the morning, spread with a touch of nut butter, or just as it is—simple, satisfying, and full of heart.