Raisin And Spice Squares
Raisin and spice squares combine sweet raisins with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a hearty treat perfect for snack or dessert lovers seeking comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt on wax paper.
- Boil raisins rapidly for 10 minutes in 2 cups water. Transfer raisins and liquid to a bowl and let cool to lukewarm.
- Add egg, vegetable shortening, and sugar to the raisin mixture.
- Mix in the sifted flour mixture and fold in the walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for 25 minutes at 350°F.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh ground spices instead of pre-ground. You can substitute half of the raisins with chopped dates for added sweetness. If you want a healthier version, replace vegetable shortening with applesauce. Ensure to sift the dry ingredients well to avoid lumps in the batter, which can make the texture uneven. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes that celebrate homestyle baking.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are perfect as a snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a delightful addition to a picnic spread or a lunchbox treat. For more delicious ideas, browse more vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raisin and Spice Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin And Spice Squares contains roughly 683 calories, with 14g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. Chopped hazelnuts would also work well. Just ensure the nuts are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution in the batter.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by replacing the egg with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Additionally, swap the vegetable shortening with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to maintain the texture.
What can I serve alongside Raisin and Spice Squares?
These squares are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a side of fresh fruit, like apple slices or berries, for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also elevate their presentation at gatherings.
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).