Raggedy Top Bars
Raggedy Top Bars are buttery, sweet treats with a crispy edge and soft center, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together margarine, sugar, and brown sugar thoroughly.
- Add egg and vanilla and beat until fluffy.
- Blend in flour, salt, and baking soda well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you're out of brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses to create a similar taste. Make sure to cream the sugars and margarine thoroughly to ensure a fluffy texture. This recipe can also be adapted to include nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for a sweet snack or a dessert at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. Consider serving them with fresh fruit or alongside a cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon break.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raggedy Top Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them, which can extend their life by a few days. To reheat, simply place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raggedy Top Bars contains roughly 849 calories, with 17g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value) and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg per serving (33% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To maintain fluffiness, you might want to use a mix of both flours or add a bit more liquid to the batter.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Raggedy Top Bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of these bars?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also elevate the overall 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).