Quick Coffee Bars
Quick Coffee Bars offer a delightful blend of coffee flavor, raisins, and nuts in a soft, cinnamon-spiced bar perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a midday pick-me-up.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and brown sugar together.
- Add the egg and hot coffee; stir to combine.
- Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in the raisins and chopped nuts.
- Spread the batter on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Cover with icing while still hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using espresso instead of regular coffee. You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different taste. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts. Make sure your shortening is at room temperature for easier creaming with the brown sugar. Also, don’t overmix the batter to ensure the bars remain tender.
Serving Suggestions
These coffee bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple icing. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread alongside dishes like Pimento And Cheese Casserole or Spicy Flowerets.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coffee bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through. This will help retain their moistness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Coffee Bars contains roughly 832 calories, with 5g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2528mg per serving (110% 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 make these coffee bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend for any additional binding agents that may be necessary for optimal texture. This will keep the bars just as delicious while catering to gluten-sensitive diets.
What can I use if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute. This will slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still yield a delicious result. Just ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and introduce a delightful richness. You can replace some of the raisins or nuts with chocolate chips, or simply add them in in addition to the existing ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
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).