Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough Swirl

Name: Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough Swirl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm water (around 100°F/38°C); 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 cup raisins (soaked in warm water)

Posted on August 17, 2025

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Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon and raisins. That’s the magic of Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough Swirl — a delightful treat that dances on your taste buds and fills your heart with nostalgia. rich chocolate sourdough bread delicious sourdough bagels.

As you pull apart a slice, the soft, chewy texture envelops your senses while tiny bursts of sweet raisins surprise you in every bite. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this bread is perfect for any occasion. oatmeal raisin cookies recipe You’ll find yourself dreaming about it long after the last crumb has disappeared.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The irresistible flavor combination makes every bite a delight
Preparation is straightforward, even for beginners
Its stunning spiral design will impress guests at any gathering
Perfect toasted with butter or enjoyed fresh from the oven

I still remember the first time I made this recipe; my family devoured it in record time, leaving me with only crumbs and a lot of happy faces in the room.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Active Sourdough Starter: A bubbly starter is crucial for that tangy flavor; feed it 8 hours before using.
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for better gluten development and texture.
Warm Water: Aim for around 100°F (38°C) to activate your starter and yeast.
Salt: This enhances flavor; avoid adding too early as it can inhibit yeast activity.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness; fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar brings moisture and a deep flavor to the filling.
Raisins: Soak them in warm water beforehand for extra plumpness and sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Dough: In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with warm water until fully combined. Add flour gradually while mixing until you form a shaggy dough.

Knead Like You Mean It: Transfer dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can sing your favorite song during this step if you like!

First Rise Time!: Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours or until doubled in size.

Create That Cinnamon Filling: While waiting, combine cinnamon, brown sugar, and softened butter in a bowl. Mix until smooth; this filling should be as dreamy as it sounds!

Shape Your Bread: Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving edges clear to seal later.

Add Those Raisins!: Sprinkle soaked raisins over the cinnamon layer — think of them like little surprises waiting to be discovered! Starting from one edge, roll up tightly into a log shape.

Curl Up Your Dough: Pinch seams to seal well and place rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let rise until puffy, about 1-2 hours.

Bake to Perfection!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. The aroma will make you feel like you’re living in a bakery!

Enjoy this delightful Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough Swirl warm from the oven or toasted with butter — trust me, either way will send you straight to bliss! light Caesar pasta salad.

You Must Know

The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is irresistible
This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also gives you the satisfaction of baking something truly special
The swirl of raisins and cinnamon creates a delightful visual and flavor experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your sourdough starter the night before, allowing it to ferment fully. Then, mix your dough and let it rise, shaping it into a loaf just before baking for the best texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can also swap out raisins for dried cranberries or apricots to mix things up.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover cinnamon raisin sourdough swirl in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in a toaster or oven until warm and slightly crispy. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Irish Soda Bread recipe.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor; it really makes a difference in this recipe
Always allow your dough to rest adequately for better flavor development
Don’t be afraid to get messy while shaping; that’s part of the fun!

Baking this sourdough was a family affair; my kids were thrilled to help roll out the dough, and their giggles filled the kitchen as they fought over who got to sprinkle the cinnamon first.

FAQ

What type of flour is best for Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough Swirl?

Using bread flour offers more gluten strength, resulting in a chewier texture.

Can I use instant yeast instead of sourdough starter?

Yes, but you’ll lose that distinctive tangy flavor unique to sourdough.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

A well-risen dough should double in size and feel puffy to the touch.