IRISH FRECKLE BREAD

Irish Freckle Bread image

This bread has been a favorite at family gatherings, either formal or casual, for years. It's tender and slightly sweet, with a light texture and attractive shape. Sometimes I change the "freckles", using dried cranberries, currants or chocolate chips instead of the raisins.-Mary E. Relyea, Canastota, New York

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 55m

Yield 1 loaf, 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

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Ingredients

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
8 tablespoons sugar, divided
1 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 eggs
1/4 cup warm mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
1/2 teaspoon salt
3-1/4 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup raisins

Steps:

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm water. Add the butter, eggs, potatoes, salt, remaining sugar and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in raisins and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough., Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour., Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into eight portions. Shape each into a ball. Place dough balls in a greased 10-in. springform pan. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes., Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove sides of pan. Place on a wire rack to cool.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 276 calories, Fat 9g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 56mg cholesterol, Sodium 189mg sodium, Carbohydrate 45g carbohydrate (17g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 5g protein.