Chocolate Raisin Bars
Decadent chocolate raisin bars combine rich chocolate flavor with sweet raisins, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that appeals to chocolate lovers and those seeking a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together margarine, pudding mix, and sugar until combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until well blended.
- Add vanilla extract and beat until incorporated.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; beat until blended, then fold in raisins.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
- Cut the cooled cake in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 6 equal bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate pudding mix instead of low calorie. You can also substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for added moisture. If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure to fold in the raisins gently to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate raisin bars make a delightful dessert on their own, but they can also be served alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal. For more options, browse more American recipes that highlight similar flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate raisin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. They also taste delicious when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Raisin Bars contains roughly 109 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 770mg per serving (33% 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary depending on the fruit you choose, so adjust the sugar if needed.
What can I do if I don't have low calorie chocolate pudding mix?
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so avoid overbaking to ensure a moist texture.
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).