Raisin Cream Bars
Raisin Cream Bars feature a tender oatmeal crust topped with a rich, creamy raisin filling, offering a sweet, fruity flavor perfect for dessert lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook raisins in water until the water is absorbed.
- Cream butter and sugar together.
- Add oatmeal, baking soda, and flour; mix well.
- Put half of the batter in a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.
- In a separate bowl, combine egg yolks, sour cream, sugar, and cornstarch; mix well.
- Stir and boil until thick.
- Add raisins and vanilla to the mixture.
- Pour the raisin filling over the baked crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbs on top.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. To make this recipe a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a different fruit, dried cranberries or chopped dates can also work well in place of raisins. Make sure to check the consistency of the filling; it should be thick but pourable.
Serving Suggestions
Raisin Cream Bars are delightful served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings. For a unique twist, try serving them alongside No Bake Instant Chocolate Cookie Pudding for a contrasting flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raisin Cream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, place individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Cream Bars contains roughly 723 calories, with 18g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 fruit instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chopped nuts for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose, as some fruits may be sweeter than others.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in this recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and richness to the filling, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed. The texture may vary slightly, but these alternatives will still provide a creamy consistency.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the bars a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving, or gently reheat them for a warm treat.
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).