Quick Cookie Sheet Bars
Sweet and fruity cookie sheet bars with raisins and a cinnamon-spiced flavor, topped with powdered sugar, perfect for quick treats or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook raisins and water together in a high saucepan; add margarine and soda to the saucepan.
- Stir until margarine melts and ingredients are well combined.
- Mix sugar, flour, egg, and cinnamon; blend into the saucepan with the raisin mixture.
- Spread the batter into a greased large cookie sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- While warm, spread with powdered sugar or 4X sugar icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider soaking the raisins in warm water for 30 minutes before cooking them. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting half of the white sugar with brown sugar for added depth. You can also replace margarine with unsalted butter for a richer taste. For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter, similar to Sybil'S Old Fashion Raisin Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie sheet bars are delightful on their own, but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert. Serve alongside a warm beverage like tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving with Mac'S House Salad for a touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the cookie sheet bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a refreshing taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Cookie Sheet Bars contains roughly 1314 calories, with 15g protein, 209g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg per serving (44% 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 different dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates. Just keep in mind that each fruit will impart its unique flavor, so choose according to your preference. Experimenting with different fruits can lead to delicious variations of this recipe.
How can I make these bars more chocolatey?
To add a chocolatey flavor, mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking. You can also swirl in some melted chocolate on top before spreading the icing. This will create a rich chocolate experience that complements the sweetness of the raisins beautifully.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that can be used 1:1 in recipes. Additionally, check that your baking soda is gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy these delicious bars while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).