Raisin Molasses Bars
Sweet and spicy raisin molasses bars feature rich flavors of molasses, cinnamon, and ginger, complemented by crunchy walnuts and chewy raisins—perfect for baking enthusiasts and snack lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Melt the butter and let it cool slightly.
- Stir in sugar, slightly beaten egg, molasses, and vanilla into the cooled butter.
- Sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Add raisins and walnuts to the sifted dry ingredients.
- Combine all ingredients until well blended.
- Pour the batter into a 10 1/2 x 15 1/2-inch cookie sheet.
- Bake for about 12 minutes.
- Let cool, then cut into bars and dust with sugar and cinnamon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of regular butter. You can substitute honey for molasses if you prefer a lighter sweetness, but the flavor will differ. If you’re short on walnuts, pecans make a great alternative. Ensure your spices are fresh for the best taste. For a variation, try adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries.
Serving Suggestions
These Raisin Molasses Bars are best served at room temperature, either plain or dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon for a festive touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal afternoon snack. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Molasses Bars contains roughly 150 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid content.
How can I make these bars more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding flaxseed meal or chia seeds to the batter. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup. Adding oats can increase fiber content and create a chewier texture.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you’re allergic to walnuts or simply don’t have any on hand, you can use almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds as a substitute. Each will add a unique flavor and texture, ensuring your bars remain delicious!
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).