Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 100°F/38°C)
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (150g) golden raisins
  • 1 tablespoon of warm water (optional for soaking raisins)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

  1. If desired, soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes and drain.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently, then let sit until foamy (about 5-10 minutes).
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and spices (if using).
  4. Add activated yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter to dry ingredients.
  5. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Gently fold in the raisins until evenly distributed.
  7. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  8. Punch down the dough, turn it out onto a floured surface, and shape it into a loaf. Place in the greased loaf pan.
  9. Cover and let rise again until puffy and nearly doubled (about 30-40 minutes).
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.