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

Seasonal 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make

Chewy English Flapjack

Indulge in this classic British treat! Our family's beloved Chewy English Flapjack recipe is a sweet, gooey, and utterly comforting dessert or snack. Easy to make, this recipe is perfect for beginners and offers exciting variations with optional ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Get ready for a taste of pure nostalgia – the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or delightful addition to any gathering!

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Main Ingredient Course Breads Equipment

A To Z Bread

This incredibly versatile and moist bread is a delicious way to use up leftover frozen berries! Packed with flavor and easy to customize, A to Z Berry Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. Make it your own by adding your favorite mix of frozen fruits, nuts, and spices.

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Californian Southern United States Dietary Fruit

Acorn Squash And Apples

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this irresistible Acorn Squash & Apple Pie Filling Bake! Sweet and tender acorn squash halves are brimming with a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling – a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a festive holiday side dish.

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4 Hours Or Less Equipment Occasion Vegetables

Acorn Squash With Cranberry Stuffing

This autumnal recipe elevates simple acorn squash to a delicious and impressive main course. Sweet and tart cranberry stuffing, bursting with seasonal flavors like apples, pecans, and warming spices, perfectly complements the tender squash. A visually stunning and flavorful dish, perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Occasion Vegetarian Lunch Preparation

Allegheny Applesauce Bread

Indulge in the irresistible Allegheny Applesauce Bread! This moist and delicious bread is bursting with sweet and spicy flavors. Made with wholesome ingredients like raisins, honey, and wheat germ – and completely free of refined grains and sugars – this recipe is a delightful treat for the whole family. Imagine the comforting aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen as this bread bakes to golden perfection. Easy to make, yet incredibly rewarding, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade goodness!

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Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less Oven Course

Amish Friendship Bread And Starter

Discover the secret to the legendary Amish Friendship Bread! This recipe includes instructions for making the starter, ensuring a perfectly fluffy and delicious loaf every time. Share the joy of baking – pass the starter on to a friend and keep the tradition alive! This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for beginner bakers.

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Course Course Preparation Desserts

Amish Friendship Starter Oatmeal Cookies

Transform your Amish Friendship Bread starter into deliciously warm and inviting oatmeal cookies! This recipe might seem long, but don't worry – it's as easy as any other oatmeal cookie recipe. The incredible aroma baking in your kitchen will be worth it! Get ready for chewy, flavorful cookies that are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

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Easy American Occasion Snacks

Ants On A Log

These Ants on a Log are incredibly easy to make, even for little ones! A classic and healthy snack, this recipe is perfect for after-school treats, parties, or any time you need a quick and nutritious bite. Crunchy celery, creamy peanut butter, and sweet raisins create a delicious combination kids will adore. Get ready for some fun in the kitchen!

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Dietary Desserts Healthy Apples

Apple Cannonballs

Fire up the grill for these irresistible Apple Cannonballs! Juicy apples are stuffed with a warm, cinnamon-spiced raisin and nut mixture, then wrapped in foil and grilled to perfection. A delicious and easy dessert or side dish, perfect for fall gatherings. (Recipe origin: Marlboro)

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No Cook Meat Beginner Cook Picnic

Apple Chicken Salad

This vibrant Apple Chicken Salad recipe is the perfect make-ahead lunch or picnic dish! Sweet apples, crunchy celery, juicy raisins, and tender chicken combine in a light and zesty dressing. Topped with your favorite nuts, it's a flavor explosion in every bite. Ready in just 5 minutes!

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Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Dietary Preparation

Apple Hill Cake

Capture the taste of autumn with our Apple Hill Harvest Cake! This incredibly popular cake, a bestseller during Apple Hill's harvest season, features tender apples, warm spices, and a hint of nutty goodness (walnuts are optional – feel free to add raisins or cranberries for a delightful twist!). A moist and comforting treat perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Equipment Low In Something Dietary Course

Apple Rice Pudding

Indulge in this creamy, comforting Apple Rice Pudding recipe, a classic dessert made easy! This simple yet elegant recipe from Riceland perfectly blends sweet apples and fluffy rice for a delightful treat that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to impress with this warm, spiced pudding in just under an hour!

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Occasion American Novelty Food Processor Blender

Apricot Cashew Smoothie

Fuel your morning with our creamy Apricot Cashew Smoothie! This quick and easy recipe blends the sweetness of apricots and the nutty richness of cashews for a protein and calcium-packed breakfast you can enjoy on the go. Frozen apricots create a naturally thick, frosty texture, but fresh apricots work too. Raisins provide natural sweetness, but feel free to add a touch of honey or sugar to your liking. This vibrant smoothie is the perfect healthy and delicious start to your day!

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Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less St Patricks Day Preparation

Bailey's Irish Cream Bread Pudding

Indulge in this decadent Bailey's Irish Cream Bread Pudding! A deliciously boozy and creamy dessert, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This adopted recipe is guaranteed to impress with its rich, custard-like texture and the delightful hint of Irish cream liqueur. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it's the ultimate comfort food.

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Pasta Rice And Grains Stove Top Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Brown Rice With Curry Raisins And Cinnamon

A heartwarming and flavorful baked brown rice recipe inspired by "Roaring Brook Cooks," a beloved Westchester, NY cookbook. This comforting dish features tender brown rice infused with aromatic cinnamon, sweet curry raisins, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite! Get ready to experience a delightful blend of sweet and savory in every bite.

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Brunch Comfort Food Served Hot Breakfast

Banana Raisin And Oatmeal Pancakes

Fluffy, flavorful Banana Raisin Oatmeal Pancakes – a family favorite! These pancakes get a delicious texture boost from soaking the oats in milk (pro tip!). Sweet, wholesome, and perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight breakfast. Top with your favorite maple syrup or honey for the ultimate treat! Kids will gobble these up!

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Cheese North American Carrots American

Barb's Best Carrot Cake

Indulge in Barb's legendary carrot cake recipe – a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors! Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a thoughtful housewarming gift. This easy-to-make cake, baked in a convenient foil pan, boasts moist, tender layers bursting with carrots and walnuts, complemented by a tangy cream cheese frosting. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible treat!

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Coconut Small Appliance Cookies And Brownies Preparation

Chewy Evil Oatmeal Raisin Coconut Cookies

These outrageously chewy oatmeal raisin coconut cookies are a game-changer! I've perfected this recipe by combining the best elements from several sources, resulting in a texture that's both delightfully soft and intensely satisfying. The secret? Unsweetened coconut adds incredible chewiness and a subtle tropical twist that elevates the classic oatmeal raisin cookie to a whole new level. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

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