Stafidopsomo: A Taste of Greek Tradition

Stafidopsomo, or Greek raisin bread, is a beloved treat that combines the comforting flavors of fluffy bread with the natural sweetness of raisins.

A staple in many Greek households, this bread is often enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or even a light dessert.

Made with simple ingredients—flour, olive oil, orange juice, raisins, and a touch of cinnamon—stafidopsomo is both wholesome and delicious.

Its aroma while baking fills the kitchen with memories of simpler times, and its slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with a cup of Greek coffee or tea.

The beauty of stafidopsomo lies in its versatility. It can be made into small rolls for a quick snack or as a loaf to share with family and friends.

Some even like to add walnuts or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for extra texture and flavor.

Would you try making stafidopsomo at home? Let me know if you’d like a recipe!

Ingredients (makes 8 servings):

1 kg all-purpose flour

25 g fresh yeast

A pinch of cinnamon

½ cup orange juice

½ cup sugar

1 cup black raisins

Lukewarm milk (around 2 cups, as needed)

Directions

Dissolve the fresh yeast in a bowl with a pinch of sugar and a small amount of lukewarm milk. Mix until combined.

Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar and a pinch of cinnamon, Mix well and create a well in the center.

Pour in the orange juice, the activated yeast, and lukewarm water gradually while kneading.

Continue kneading until the dough no longer sticks to the bowl and becomes soft and pliable.

Incorporate the raisins into the dough, kneading until evenly distributed.

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Once risen, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 8 equal portions.

Shape each portion into a loaf and place them on greased baking trays.

Cover the loaves and let them rise again for 45 minutes.

Optional glaze

If desired, prepare an egg wash by whisking 1 egg with a splash of water and a little sugar. Brush it over the loaves for a shiny finish.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Bake the loaves for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade stafidopsomo