Raisin Cookie Bars
Sweet and chewy raisin cookie bars with a hint of cinnamon, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or as a comforting snack for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream eggs, brown sugar, and shortening together.
- Add raisins, sifted flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and boiling water to the mixture.
- Mix until well combined, then pour into a prepared baking pan.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then spread a light glaze over the top if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. Ensure the boiling water is truly hot to activate the baking soda and baking powder, which will help the bars rise. If you prefer, you can replace raisins with chopped dates or dried cranberries for a different twist. For added texture, mix in some chopped nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These raisin cookie bars are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, drizzle a simple glaze over the top or serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They make a great addition to a dessert platter featuring American recipes or other baked goods.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover raisin cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a low oven until just warmed through, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Cookie Bars contains roughly 865 calories, with 6g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 988mg 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 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. Start with a 50/50 blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to see how you like it. Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and a nuttier flavor, which can complement the raisins nicely.
How can I make these bars more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg in addition to the cinnamon. You could also experiment with adding orange or lemon zest for a citrusy note that pairs well with the sweetness of the raisins.
Can I freeze the cookie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a freshly baked 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).