Cinnamon Raisin Delight (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1½ cups warm water (around 105°F to 115°F)
02 - 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
03 - 1 tablespoon cinnamon powder
04 - ½ teaspoon dried yeast
05 - 1 teaspoon table salt
06 - 1 cup dried raisins
07 - 3 cups plain flour

# Instructions:

01 - Toss the flour, salt, yeast, cinnamon, and raisins into a big mixing bowl. Slowly pour in the water, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until it’s all combined.
02 - Wrap plastic over the bowl’s top and set it aside on your kitchen counter or inside an unused oven. Rest it for at least 5 hours, or up to 18 hours if you’ve got the time. Be patient—this is key for rising.
03 - Set your oven to 450°F and place your cast iron pot inside while it heats up. Once everything reaches that temperature, carefully take out the hot pot using mitts.
04 - Dust your hands with flour, then sprinkle the dough lightly with flour too. Move the dough onto a floured surface, flatten it lightly, and spread some brown sugar on top. Fold it over itself until the sugar is mixed in, then shape it into a ball. Use extra flour if it feels sticky.
05 - Put the dough on a piece of parchment paper and use that to carefully place it in the preheated Dutch oven. Pop the lid on top and return it to the oven.
06 - Bake with the lid on for half an hour. Then take off the lid and keep baking another 15-20 minutes. Look for a golden color. Once done, remove the bread and let it cool fully before slicing.

# Notes:

01 - Always make sure your yeast is fresh by checking its expiration so the dough rises properly.
02 - For the best results, use water that’s between 105°F and 115°F to activate the yeast.
03 - To get the dough to double in size, you need a rising time of at least 5 hours.
04 - Store leftovers on your counter for up to 4 days, or freeze for as long as 3 months.