My GoTo Cinnamon Raisin Bread Recipe Golden Swirls

Instructions:

1. Warm milk, add yeast and a teaspoon of the sugar. Let stand until foamy (5-10 minutes).
2. In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine the proofed yeast mixture, remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and egg.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead on a lightly floured surface (or with a dough hook) until smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1-1.5 hours).
6. While the dough rises, combine softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
7. Gently deflate the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 12x18 inches.
8. Spread the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the raisins evenly over the mixture.
9. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
10. Place the log into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan, seam-side down.
11. Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until the dough reaches the top of the pan.
12. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
13. Brush the top of the loaf with egg wash for a glossy finish (optional).
14. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
15. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cinnamon raisin bread recipe is a classic.