Vanilla-Vanilla Raisin Nut Bread

This 'definitely vanilla' recipe uses 1/4 cup of the extract for soaking golden raisins, which are then combined with buttermilk, walnuts and cinnamon to make this bread machine loaf.

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 cup real vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
• 3 1/2 cups bread flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Directions:

Soak raisins in vanilla extract at least one hour, OR combine raisins and vanilla extract and microwave on HIGH 1 minute. Drain raisins and reserve 1 tablespoon vanilla. Place all ingredients in bread pan, including the reserved 1 tablespoon of vanilla. Select Light Crust setting and press Start. If, after 5-10 minutes the machine is straining a bit, add 1 or 2 tablespoons additional buttermilk until dough is smooth, soft and just slightly tacky. After the baking cycle ends, cool the bread on wire rack 1 hour before slicing.

Number of Servings: 12-16 slices

Notes from the Cook: This is truly a vanilla raisin loaf. I love raisin bread and this is just different enough to remember its goodness!