Old Fashioned A & P Bar Cake
A moist, spiced raisin cake with warm flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for gatherings and enjoyed with cream cheese frosting for added richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer water and raisins in a medium saucepan for 10 minutes. Add shortening and let cool.
- In a large bowl, sift together sugar, baking soda, flour, spices, and salt. Stir in nuts if desired.
- Add cooled raisin mixture to the dry ingredients and blend well.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 minutes.
- Let cool completely before frosting, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you want to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar alternative like coconut sugar. To enhance the spices, add a pinch of ginger or use fresh grated nutmeg. Make sure to sift your flour and baking soda well to ensure a light texture in the cake.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Fashioned A & P Bar Cake is delightful on its own or can be topped with a simple cream cheese frosting for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of Amaretto Hot Fruit Compote. For a complete dessert experience, serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bar cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned A & P Bar Cake contains roughly 444 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% 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?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped apricots, or dates. Just make sure to adjust the soaking time if the fruits are larger or denser. This will give the cake a unique flavor and texture that can be enjoyed by everyone.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, consider adding a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. Brush it over the top of the cake to add moisture. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream to enhance the overall texture and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this classic bar cake without sacrificing taste.
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).