Raspberry Jam Twist Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about baking bread, especially when it’s a sweet, jam-filled loaf that fills the whole house with the aroma of warm dough and berries. This Raspberry Jam Twist Bread is one of those recipes that looks as impressive as it tastes. It’s a stunning twist on classic sweet bread, featuring a soft, yeasty dough with a ribbon of raspberry jam woven throughout. In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to make this gorgeous bread, from ingredients to baking tips, so that you can achieve the perfect bake every time.

A Slice of Sweet Nostalgia

When I first started baking, fruit-filled breads were one of my go-tos because they always made the perfect snack or breakfast. I still remember making jam-filled pastries with my grandmother, carefully spreading her homemade preserves and trying to make each one look just right. This recipe is a nod to those memories, but with a modern twist (literally). The soft, airy dough braided with vibrant raspberry jam creates a visual and culinary delight that I can’t wait to share with you. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy warm at breakfast or as a cozy afternoon treat with tea.

Preparing the Dough: Creating the Perfect Base

Start by activating the yeast, combining warm water with a teaspoon of sugar and the yeast itself. This mixture should bubble within a few minutes, confirming that your yeast is alive and ready. In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), mix the flour, sugar, and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture, warm milk, eggs, and melted butter. As you mix, a soft dough will form.

The next step is kneading, which is key for developing the dough’s elasticity. You can do this by hand on a floured surface or using a dough hook attachment on a mixer. Knead until the dough feels smooth and slightly springy, usually about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes with a mixer. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—usually about an hour to an hour and a half.

Assembling and Shaping the Twist: The Art of the Braid

Once the dough has risen, you’re ready to transform it into a stunning twist. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread a generous layer of raspberry jam over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent leakage during baking. If you’re using fresh raspberries, sprinkle them over the jam for an extra touch of freshness and color.

With the dough filled, roll it up tightly from one of the longer edges, forming a log. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the log lengthwise down the center, exposing the layers of jam. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up, creating a beautiful braided effect. Shape this twist into a circle if you like, or place it directly into a greased bundt pan or on a baking sheet, pinching the ends together to form a complete ring.

Second Rise and Baking: Bringing It All Together

Let your beautifully shaped dough rise for another 30-40 minutes. During this second rise, the dough will puff up, making it extra light and airy when baked. While the bread is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For a shiny, golden crust, brush the top with beaten egg just before baking.

Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, keeping an eye on it as it turns golden brown. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil for the final 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Serving Information

• Servings: 8-10 slices, depending on the size of your cuts
• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time)
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 290 per slice

Tips for the Best Raspberry Jam Twist Bread

• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: The second rise allows the dough to relax and expand, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture.
• Use High-Quality Jam: Since the jam is the star of the filling, choose a seedless variety for a smooth, even spread. Homemade or artisan jams with a high fruit content will add extra flavor.
• Optional Add-Ons: Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the jam for a hint of warmth.
• Mind the Temperature: Let the bread cool slightly before serving to let the jam set and avoid any overly sticky slices. This also helps the bread’s texture develop as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is perfect warm from the oven with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries on top for extra color. It’s also delicious spread with a little butter or extra raspberry jam. For a brunch spread, pair it with coffee or tea for a truly cozy experience. It makes a wonderful centerpiece for a weekend breakfast or holiday table, bringing a touch of elegance and a burst of color.

Bake with Love

Raspberry Jam Twist Bread is one of those recipes that’s both show-stopping and easy to love, with layers of flavor wrapped up in every beautiful twist. Whether you’re baking it for a weekend treat, a holiday brunch, or just to enjoy a few quiet moments of indulgence, this bread is bound to become a new favorite.

Did you make this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, or snap a picture and tag it with #EmmasCakeStudio on social media. Happy baking!

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Add This to Your Recipe Collection

This Raspberry Jam Twist Bread is seriously such fun to make. It looks great on every table, but most importantly, it has that very nice combination of textures and flavors that people love so much.

A special breakfast, a little something to go with afternoon tea, or if you will, the showstopper dessert-this bread is going to steal hearts.

I’m sure.

Have you ever tried this recipe?

Throw your thoughts or any twists down in the comments below; I’d really wanna know how it went with you!