Raisin Chews
Sweet, chewy raisin chews with crunchy walnuts and warm spices, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that appeals to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse, drain, and dry the raisins.
- Chop or grind the walnuts.
- Beat the eggs until foamy and gradually beat in the sugar and vanilla.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the egg mixture.
- Blend in the raisins, chopped walnuts, and grated orange rind.
- Spread the mixture in a well-greased and floured 8-inch square pan.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 to 35 minutes until lightly crusted on top.
- Cut into squares while warm.
- Cool and remove from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider soaking the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before draining. If you need a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Adjust spices to taste; for a twist, try adding a pinch of ginger. Ensure your pan is adequately greased to prevent sticking, which can be a concern with baked goods like these chews.
Serving Suggestions
These raisin chews are delicious on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. They also complement other American recipes, making them a wonderful addition to a potluck or dessert table alongside dishes like Baptist Chocolate Pudding Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm again, or eat them cold for a delightful snack. These chews can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Chews contains roughly 148 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to maintain the right balance of sweetness and texture in the chews.
What if I don’t have walnuts?
If walnuts aren't available, you can use pecans or almonds for a similar crunch. Alternatively, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well for a nut-free option, ensuring that the chews remain delicious and textured.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan raisin chews, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based milk instead of the eggs. The results will still be delightful and satisfying.
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).