Dried Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Raisins

Vitis vinifera (dried) Allergens: Sulfite (if preserved)
raisins

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Vitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Grapes

The Forktionary Angle

"The Sun-Kissed Sweetener: Delve into the ancient art of drying grapes and how these concentrated jewels add natural sweetness and texture to countless dishes."

Definition

Dried grapes, primarily from the common grape vine, known for their sweet, chewy texture and concentrated flavor, used widely in baking and snacks.

Sensory Profile

TasteVery sweet, fruity, slightly tangy
TextureChewy, soft, sticky
AromaSweet, grape-like
AcidityLow-Med

Technical Metrics

Global Production (2020)

~1.3 million metric tons

Sugar Content

~79% (fructose, glucose)

Water Activity

~0.55-0.65 (inhibits microbial growth)

Nutrition Facts

Per 40g (1/4 cup)
Calories299 kcal
Total Fat0.46g
Saturated Fat0.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein3.07g
Total Carbohydrate79.18g
Dietary Fiber3.7g
Total Sugars59.19g
Calcium50mg
Iron1.88mg
Potassium749mg

Chef’s Secret

Soaking raisins in hot water or alcohol (like rum) before use makes them plump and juicy, preventing them from sinking to the bottom of baked goods.

Substitutions

Best Match

Dried Cranberries

1:1

Similar chewiness and sweetness, with a slightly tart note, great for baking.

Dried Cherries

1:1

Offers a similar plump, sweet-tart profile, excellent for baked goods and salads.

Chopped Dried Apricots

1:1

Provides a similar chewy texture and concentrated sweetness, distinct flavor.

Dates (chopped)

1:1

Very sweet and sticky, good for adding moisture and sweetness to recipes, less tart.

Buying Guide

Select plump, moist raisins. Avoid hard or shriveled ones. Store in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.

Flavor Pairings

Oatmeal cereals bread cookies stews chicken nuts cinnamon rum.

Recipes Using Raisins

Puddings And Mousses Occasion Potluck Dietary

Leftover Rice Pudding

Transform leftover rice into a dreamy, creamy dessert! This egg-free rice pudding recipe, inspired by a community cookbook, is quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. Perfect for a simple weeknight treat or a delightful potluck contribution.

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Number Of Servings Time To Make Course Inexpensive

1 Gram Fat Pumpkin Spice Muffins Low Fat

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these unbelievably delicious pumpkin spice muffins! Each muffin boasts only 1 gram of fat, making them the perfect guilt-free treat for low-fat diets. This recipe makes 36 muffins – perfect for freezing and enjoying as a healthy breakfast or snack anytime. The secret? They don't taste low-fat at all! Customize them with chopped nuts (adds fat) or use egg beaters and white sugar for even fewer calories. Get ready for a flavor explosion that won't compromise your healthy lifestyle!

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Italian Desserts 4 Hours Or Less European

Almond Bread Pudding

Indulge in this exquisite Almond Bread Pudding, a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Inspired by traditional Italian recipes, this rich and flavorful bread pudding features a delicate almond custard, plump raisins soaked in rum, and buttery bread for the perfect texture. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in!

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Holiday Event Cuisine Easy Main Ingredient

Amish Friendship Nut Bread On Demand

This beloved recipe uses a time-tested Amish Friendship Starter (see recipe #64793 by Kim D). Perfected over 5 years of baking, this version is a family favorite! Learn how to easily freeze your starter for up to 6 months, ensuring you always have this delicious bread on demand. Discover the secrets to a perfectly moist and flavorful nut bread, passed down through generations. Trust the old ways – this recipe is both delicious and convenient!

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Diabetic Coconut Bar Cookies Diabetic

Amy's Chewy Coconut Bars Diabetic

A tribute to Amy, these chewy coconut bars are a delightful treat perfect for holiday cookie swaps or any occasion! This recipe features a delightful blend of coconut, walnuts, and a hint of maple, creating a subtly sweet and satisfying bar that's surprisingly diabetic-friendly. Each bar boasts approximately 126 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Impress your friends and family with this delicious and healthy recipe!

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Low In Something Occasion Healthy Fruit

Apple Cider Spiced Raisin Bread

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this irresistible Apple Cider Spiced Raisin Bread! Fragrant apple cider, warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and plump, juicy raisins create a loaf that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. This recipe is easily adaptable to various bread machines – simply follow your machine's instructions for optimal results.

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Nuts Holiday Event Time To Make Main Ingredient

Apple Matzoh Kugel

This Apple Matzoh Kugel is a family favorite, a must-have for your Passover Seder! Sweet and subtly spiced, this baked kugel features tender apples, crunchy nuts, and the delightful texture of matzah. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this recipe will become a new tradition in your home.

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Fruit Apples Pork Preparation

Apple Stuffed Pork Roast

This sensational Apple Stuffed Pork Roast recipe is a family favorite, originally shared by Winnipeg's own *mel*! Juicy pork tenderloin is perfectly complemented by a sweet and savory apple stuffing. Easy to follow instructions make this impressive dish surprisingly simple to prepare for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Get ready to savor every bite!

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4 Hours Or Less Low Sodium Low Carb Dietary

Apple Stuffed Pork Roast

Juicy pork roast infused with the sweet and savory flavors of apples, herbs, and spices. This Better Homes and Gardens inspired recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weekend dinner. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow, fall-inspired masterpiece!

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Number Of Servings Preparation Number Of Servings Occasion

Aunt Rosie's Eggless Raisin Cake

This comforting eggless raisin cake recipe is a cherished family heirloom, passed down from Hilma Murphy. Warm, gooey, and bursting with raisin flavor, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion. A true taste of nostalgia, it's guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Originally from Hilma Murphy (a cherished friend's mother), this recipe evokes happy memories and delivers a deliciously moist and satisfying cake every time.

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Time To Make Pasta Rice And Grains Fall Low In Something

Autumn Sausage Casserole In The Crock Pot

Cozy up with this easy, flavorful Autumn Sausage Casserole, slow-cooked to perfection in your crock-pot! This recipe uses leftover rice, making it a fantastic weeknight meal or a make-ahead dish for busy schedules. We've adapted this recipe for optimal results in a 4-quart slow cooker, avoiding the overflow issues experienced in larger models. Choose your favorite sausage – from classic kielbasa and Italian sausage to spicy andouille or even chicken and artichoke – the possibilities are endless! This recipe can also be easily adapted to be gluten-free with careful sausage selection. Get ready for tender, comforting flavors perfect for fall!

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Easy Time To Make Preparation Easy

Baked Carrot Pudding

Indulge in this truly Irish dessert, perfect as a sweet main course or a comforting treat! This baked carrot pudding is incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Imagine tender carrots, warming spices, and a subtly sweet taste – all baked to perfection. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or custard for an unforgettable culinary experience. Try this easy recipe today!

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Chicken Breasts 3 Steps Or Less Main Ingredient Meat

Baked Chicken On Pecan Stuffing

This recipe for Baked Chicken on Savory Pecan Stuffing is perfect for two! Forget wrestling with a whole chicken – this recipe uses just two chicken breasts for easy cleanup and portion control. A delicious twist for diabetics, we use apple juice instead of apple jelly, creating a surprisingly flavorful and healthier dish. The vegetables are cooked in chicken stock instead of butter for a lighter, yet still incredibly satisfying meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with delicious autumn flavors!

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Dietary Course Dietary Main Ingredient

Baked Homemade Granola Lower Fat

Craving a healthy and delicious granola? This homemade recipe lets you control the ingredients, significantly reducing fat compared to store-bought options while boosting the nutty, seedy goodness! Packed with almonds, walnuts, pumpkin & sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds, this crunchy granola is perfect as a standalone snack, yogurt topping, or even a delightful addition to your favorite smoothie. Make it your own by adjusting the nuts and seeds to your liking!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Cuisine American Preparation

Balinese Rice Salad

Escape to Bali with this vibrant and refreshing rice salad! A quick and easy recipe (ready in 25 minutes!), perfect for a last-minute picnic, summer supper, or a light yet satisfying main course or side dish. Inspired by Moosewood's Daily Special cookbook, this recipe uses leftover rice to create a flavor explosion with sweet pineapple, crunchy veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing. Get ready for a taste of paradise!

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Beginner Cook Breads Beginner Cook Gifts

Banana Corn Muffins

Deliciously moist and easy Banana Corn Muffins, perfect for busy mornings or a healthy after-school snack! This kid-friendly recipe is a twist on a classic, featuring the sweetness of ripe bananas and the delightful crunch of corn. Easily doubled for a crowd, and adaptable with optional nuts and raisins for extra flavor and texture. Get ready for rave reviews!

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North American 60 Minutes Or Less Cuisine Preparation

Banana Raisin Bran Muffins

These irresistible Banana Raisin Bran Muffins are a delightful twist on a classic recipe! Inspired by a vintage Roger's Wheat Bran bag, this recipe has been perfected with a few secret tweaks for unbelievably moist and flavorful muffins. Get ready for a burst of banana sweetness and the satisfying crunch of bran in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack!

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Finger Food Low Fat Beginner Cook Occasion

Bannock

Discover the secrets of authentic Bannock, a quick and easy Native American fry bread recipe! This recipe, adapted from a classic magazine article, shares a delightful historical anecdote: 'Rich Indians add raisins to their bannock,' offering a delicious twist. Learn to make this simple yet flavorful bread in just 15 minutes – a true taste of tradition!

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