French Creams - Bar Cookies
French Creams are rich, spiced bar cookies featuring raisins or dates, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, flavorful treats with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the raisins or dates in a blender with 1 cup of flour added.
- Cream together the brown sugar and shortening.
- Add the eggs and vanilla; beat well.
- Mix the chopped fruit mixture into the creamed mixture.
- Sift together the remaining flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and soda.
- Alternately add the boiling water and dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If raisins or dates aren't available, chopped dried apricots or figs can work well. To enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of ground cloves. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps in your batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these French Creams as a delightful snack or dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or serve alongside sliced fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bar cookies; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Creams - Bar Cookies contains roughly 875 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2349mg per serving (102% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but expect a denser texture. Start with a 50-50 mix and see how you like it. Whole wheat will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber, making these bars a bit healthier.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you're looking for a substitute for shortening, unsalted butter is a great option. It will add a richer taste to your bars. Alternatively, coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
To check if your French Creams are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they're ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.
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).