Start by preparing your loaf pan. Spray a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray or grease it with butter and flour. To add an extra touch, you can sprinkle some cornmeal into the pan, shaking it around to coat the sides. This will help create a gorgeous crust.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and baking soda. Mix these dry ingredients together for about 30 seconds on low speed until they’re well combined.
Add the milk and water, warmed to between 120°F to 130°F. It’s important not to have it too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Beat the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium-high speed and beat for 3 minutes. The batter will be gooey and sticky, which is exactly what you want.
Next, add the remaining 1 cup of flour and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that lovely gooey texture.
Gently fold in the raisins with a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the dough into your prepared pan without kneading it. Use your hands or a spatula to level it as much as possible.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a towel and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. This is your moment to sit back and imagine the delicious bread to come!
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F. Now is a good time to prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir it well to combine.
After the dough has risen, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the loaf before baking. Make sure to reserve some for the flavored butter later!
Bake the loaf for 28 to 32 minutes, until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Once baked, immediately remove the bread from the pan and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. While you can enjoy it untoasted, I highly recommend toasting it for that extra warmth.
For the flavored butter, combine the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture with unsalted butter in a bowl, using a whipping motion to blend it until it’s fluffy.