Orange And Raisin Bars
Sweet and tangy orange and raisin bars feature a citrusy flavor with chewy raisins, perfect for snack time or a quick dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put orange and raisins through a food chopper.
- Mix soda into sour milk and set aside.
- Combine shortening, sugar, and egg; add sour milk mixture.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for shortening in this recipe. If you don’t have sour milk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. Additionally, you can experiment with adding nuts or spices like cinnamon to enhance the taste further. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes that feature fruity elements.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. They also complement a cup of tea or coffee perfectly. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a refreshing Heavenly Salad (Heritage Recipe) for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange and Raisin Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange And Raisin Bars contains roughly 213 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 957mg per serving (42% 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 orange juice instead of a whole orange?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice, but you may miss out on the texture and zest that the whole orange provides. If using juice, consider adding some grated orange zest for added flavor. Adjust the quantity to about 1/2 cup to maintain the moisture balance in the recipe.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you don't have raisins on hand, you can use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even dried apricots as a substitute. Each will lend a unique flavor and sweetness to the bars, making them equally delicious.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overcooking, as oven temperatures can vary.
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).