Drum Roll Bars
Delicious drum roll bars combine rich brown sugar, raisins, and nuts in a moist, spiced cake-like treat perfect for snack time or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and shortening in a bowl; add the egg and hot coffee, then incorporate the sifted flour, baking powder, soda, and cinnamon.
- Fold in the raisins and chopped nuts last.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F for 25 to 35 minutes or until done.
- While warm, frost with powdered sugar frosting before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some flour, or try adding a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with shredded coconut or simply omit them. To make it a bit healthier, you can replace half the shortening with unsweetened applesauce.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a complete treat, pair them with a cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside Aunt Evelyn Kear's Sugar Cream Pie or Lemon-Ammonia Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Drum Roll Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold for a chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drum Roll Bars contains roughly 281 calories, with 2g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but the bars may be less moist and have a different flavor. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like taste, while granulated sugar will create a lighter texture.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options will lend a different flavor and texture, making the bars slightly richer.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should also start to pull away from the sides of the pan, indicating that they are ready.
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).