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Cinnamon Raisin Bread (Gluten-Free & Paleo!)

Last Update: September 30, 2025

Cinnamon raisin bread has long been a cozy favorite — warm, slightly sweet, studded with juicy raisins and kissed with spice. But for many who avoid grains or gluten, the traditional recipe feels off limits. That’s where a paleo and gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread recipe shines: it reclaims the comfort without compromising clean eating.

In the Paleo (and GF) baking worlds, creators lean into nut flours, arrowroot or tapioca starch, and natural sweeteners to mimic the soft texture of classic loaves. The shift from yeast breads to quick breads allows for no proofing, fewer steps, and accessible flavor for home bakers. What feels indulgent and nostalgic becomes doable, balanced, and satisfying.

This version brings together the warm swirl of cinnamon, sweet raisins, and a tender crumb — a best gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread approach that delivers on both sweetness and wholesome ingredients. Whether as breakfast toast, a snack, or part of a festive brunch, this loaf earns its keep in the kitchen.


How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Recipe Details

Yield: 1 (9×5-inch) loaf
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Recipe Ingredients

Recipe Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, mix together cashew butter, eggs, and egg whites until smooth. Slowly pour in water, followed by almond flour mixture. Add apple cider vinegar and mix until smooth. Fold in raisins.
  4. Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per slice (recipe yields 10 slices). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size 1 slice
Calories ≈ 240 kcal
Protein ≈ 9 g
Carbs ≈ 20 g
Sugar ≈ 11 g
Fiber ≈ 4 g
Fat ≈ 15 g

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Variations & Tips

  • Nut swap: Use walnuts or pecans in place of some of the flour or as a topping swirl.
  • Fruit variation: Replace raisins with chopped dates, cherries, or dried cranberries.
  • Spice boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice alongside the cinnamon for depth.
  • Less sweet: Reduce the amount of sweetener slightly, letting the natural sweetness of raisins shine through.
  • Make-ahead batter: Prepare the batter and refrigerate overnight; bake fresh in the morning (may require extra bake time).
  • Glaze option: Drizzle a simple mix of maple syrup + a dash of cinnamon over cooled slices for extra sweetness.

Best Cinnamon Raisin Bread Pairings

  • Nut butter (almond, cashew) — creamy contrast to the loaf’s texture.
  • Coconut yogurt or plain yogurt (dairy-free) — tang and creaminess to balance the sweetness.
  • Fresh fruit (apple slices, berries, banana) — bright flavors that complement cinnamon and raisins.
  • Hot coffee, chai, or spiced tea — cozy, aromatic beverages that echo the bread’s spice notes.
  • Glaze or spread (maple syrup, honey drizzle, cinnamon glaze) — enhance the sweet profile without overwhelming it.

When to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bread

  • Weekend brunch — warm loaf that pairs beautifully with eggs and fresh fruit.
  • Holiday morning (Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.) — festive spiced bread for special breakfasts.
  • Afternoon tea or coffee breaks — cut into slices and serve warm with a hot drink.
  • Potlucks or brunch buffets — easy to slice and share among guests.
  • Breakfast meal prep — slice, wrap, and freeze portions to toast during the week.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont

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Merce Muse

Thrive Market Food Editor