Raisin Loaf Cake
There’s something so comforting about a slice of Raisin Loaf Cake with its soft, buttery crumb and bursts of naturally sweet raisins in every bite. It’s the kind of cake that feels nostalgic, like something grandma used to bake. Whether you enjoy it warm out of the oven, toasted with butter, or as a simple dessert, this loaf cake is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma and your heart with joy.
Why You’ll Love Raisin Loaf Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples and naturally sweet raisins.
Quick and Easy: Comes together with minimal prep and bakes beautifully.
Customizable: Add nuts, spices, or a glaze for your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Raisin Loaf Cake
Here’s the magic of this loaf cake—it’s simple but absolutely delicious:
Flour: Provides the structure for the loaf.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and caramelizes as it bakes.
Butter: Adds richness and keeps the crumb tender.
Eggs: Bind the batter and give it structure.
Milk: Keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
Baking Powder: Ensures a lovely, light rise.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
Raisins: The star ingredient! Sweet, chewy, and packed with flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients: Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
Assemble the Dish: Fold in the raisins, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve plain or with a spread of butter for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 275
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Serve Raisin Loaf Cake
This loaf is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. Toast a slice and spread it with butter or cream cheese for a delicious snack. It also makes a lovely gift when wrapped up and shared with friends or family.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Soak the raisins in warm water or tea for 10 minutes before adding to the batter for extra plumpness.
Toss the raisins in a bit of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced variation.
Top the batter with a sprinkle of coarse sugar for a beautiful crunch.
This loaf freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use other dried fruits? Yes! Chopped dates, cranberries, or apricots work beautifully.
2. Do I need to soak the raisins first? It’s optional, but soaking makes them extra juicy.
3. Can I make this cake eggless? Substitute the eggs with unsweetened applesauce or yogurt for a great result.
4. Can I add nuts? Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch.
5. Can I use brown sugar instead of white? Yes, it will add a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
6. How do I keep the loaf moist? Don’t overbake and store it tightly wrapped once cooled.
7. Can I use whole wheat flour? You can, but it will make the loaf denser.
8. Can I add a glaze? A simple lemon or vanilla glaze would be delicious.
9. How long will it last? Up to 4 days at room temperature or 1 week in the fridge.
10. Can I double the recipe? Yes, just bake in two loaf pans or adjust the baking time for a larger pan.
CONCLUSION
The Raisin Loaf Cake is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With its tender crumb and sweet bursts of raisins, it’s the perfect treat for any time of day. Once you bake this loaf, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again it’s that good!
Print
Raisin Loaf Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful raisin loaf cake studded with plump, juicy raisins and a hint of warm spices. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a simple dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the soaked and drained raisins.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Soaking raisins prevents them from drawing moisture from the batter and keeps the cake moist.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: raisin loaf cake, tea cake, cinnamon raisin cake, easy loaf cake, breakfast cake