Applesauce Spice Bar Cookies
Warm, moist applesauce spice bars with raisins and a hint of pumpkin pie spice, perfect for cozy gatherings and loved by those craving a fruity, spiced treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an oblong pan.
- Cream together the brown sugar, eggs, and shortening in a bowl.
- Add the flour, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, applesauce, and raisins to the creamed mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Ice with Brown Butter Icing once cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or substituting half of the applesauce with mashed bananas. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the brown sugar to 1 cup. When mixing, ensure not to overmix to keep the texture tender. For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the spices.
Serving Suggestions
These Applesauce Spice Bar Cookies are delightful on their own, but they are also fantastic served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings. Consider serving them alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Spice Bar Cookies contains roughly 657 calories, with 2g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of spice instead of pumpkin pie spice?
Absolutely! You can use cinnamon, nutmeg, or a mix of your favorite warm spices. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it can still be delicious. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference, starting with a teaspoon and adding more if desired.
What can I substitute for shortening in this recipe?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, unsweetened applesauce can also be used, but the texture may be slightly different. Just be sure to keep the overall liquid ratio in mind.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies! Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).