If you’re looking to add a touch of European charm to your breakfast or brunch table, then you’re in for a treat with our delightful recipe for Der Besten Rosinenbrot. This traditional German raisin bread is a true delight, featuring plump raisins in a sweet, buttery dough that’s perfect for toasting and enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. With a hint of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s get baking!
Der Besten Rosinenbrot
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 package) active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Warm the milk in a saucepan until it’s just slightly warm to the touch, but not hot. Pour the milk into a large mixing bowl and add the melted butter and sugar. Stir to combine.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and knead in the raisins until evenly distributed.
7. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg to give it a shiny finish.
10. Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve your freshly baked Der Besten Rosinenbrot sliced and toasted, with a generous smear of butter or your favorite jam. This delicious bread is perfect for special occasions, weekend brunches, or simply as a cozy treat for yourself. The combination of plump raisins and warm spices will fill your home with a comforting aroma that will have everyone asking for a second slice. Enjoy the taste of Germany right in your own kitchen with this easy and delightful recipe.