Frosted Raisin Bars
Sweet and spiced raisin bars with a creamy frosting, perfect for snacking or dessert, appealing to those who enjoy fruity and warmly flavored baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook raisins and water until raisins are soft.
- Combine sugar, shortening, and vanilla; mix well.
- Add milk gradually to achieve spreading consistency.
- Spread frosting over cooled bars and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For an easy twist, consider substituting the raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the 10x sugar by a quarter cup. Ensure to cook the raisins until they are very soft; this will help integrate their flavor throughout the bars. Using a spatula dipped in warm water can help smooth the frosting more easily.
Serving Suggestions
These frosted raisin bars make a delightful snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can serve them with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a more wholesome option, consider pairing them with a fruit salad or yogurt. They are also a great accompaniment to a brunch featuring dishes like Quick Easy French Toast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover frosted raisin 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 enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. Just be cautious not to overheat, as they can become too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frosted Raisin Bars contains roughly 218 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 fresh raisins instead of dried for this recipe?
Fresh raisins, or grapes, are not recommended as they contain too much moisture and won't provide the desired texture or flavor. Stick with dried raisins for the best results, as they hold their shape and flavor during baking.
What can I use as a substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both options add a lovely flavor and moisture to the bars, making them just as delicious.
How can I make these bars healthier?
To make these bars healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid ingredients accordingly to maintain the right consistency.
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).