CINNAMON RAISIN BRAID

Cinnamon Raisin Braid image

Provided by Rise Ruhl

Categories Breads

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 pkg active dry yeast
1/2 c warm (but not hot) water
1/4 c honey (raw preferred)
1 c warm milk
1/4 c neutral flavor oil (vegetable oil works too)
1/2 tsp sea salt
3 1/2 c whole wheat flour
2 tsp cinnamon
1 c raisins
CINNAMON HONEY TOPPING
1 tsp honey (raw preferred)
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Steps:

1. In a small bowl add the water and 1 tbsp honey. Stir until dissolved and then sprinkle the yeast over the water. Let sit 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and bubbly. While the yeast is proofing combine the milk, 1/4 cup honey and oil in a large bowl. Mix in 1 cup of flour, 2 tsp cinnamon and the salt. Add the yeast mixture and raisins and stir to combine. Beat in the remaining 2 cups of flour 1 cup at a time until you have a slightly sticky dough. Add additional flour if needed until you have a workable dough. Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 5-10 minutes, until the dough is soft and elastic. Put the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap until doubled in size.
2. Punch down the dough and divide into 4 equal portions. Divided each of these into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion out into a rope about 10-12 inches long. Pinch 3 of the ropes together at the top and then proceed to braid. Pinch the ends together and place on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough. Spray the braids lightly with water and place in a 350 degree oven for 18-20 minutes. While the braids are baking mix the remaining tbsp of honey and 1/2 tsp cinnamon together.
3. When the braids are done baking remove from the oven and immediately brush with the honey/cinnamon mixture. Enjoy while still warm and nicely sticky. http://www.thenakedkitchen.com/cinnamon-raisin-braids/