Coffee Spice Bars
Sweet and flavorful coffee spice bars feature cinnamon, raisins, and nuts, with a coffee-infused frosting, making them perfect for coffee lovers and sweet snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, margarine, and egg; then add hot coffee.
- Combine dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon, then stir into the wet mixture.
- Add raisins and chopped nuts to the batter and mix well.
- Spread the batter evenly in a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- While still warm, prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla, soft margarine, and hot coffee until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the warm bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the spice profile. Ensure your coffee is freshly brewed for the best taste. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with additional raisins.
Serving Suggestions
These coffee spice bars are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a more indulgent experience, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Consider enjoying them alongside other sweet treats like the Chocolate Skillet Cake for a dessert spread that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover coffee spice bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to freeze the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coffee Spice Bars contains roughly 102 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 decaffeinated coffee in this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer to limit your caffeine intake. The flavor will still shine through, making these coffee spice bars delicious without the jitters.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a plant-based butter alternative. Both will work well and provide a similar texture and flavor in the bars.
Can I add other spices to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the quantities to your taste preference, ensuring the flavors complement each other.
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).