Raisin Spice Bars
Raisin Spice Bars offer a delightful blend of sweet raisins and warm cinnamon, perfect for a comforting snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil raisins for 13 minutes, covered with water.
- Drain water, then add 1 cup water and boil 3 more minutes.
- Drain and add enough water to make one cup.
- Mix all ingredients except the raisins and water, then add the raisins and water.
- Stir until completely mixed.
- Pour into a 9 x 13-inch baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or a mix of both. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To enhance the spice, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Be sure not to overmix after adding the raisins, as this can lead to dense bars. For a fun twist, consider adding chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These raisin spice bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They pair well with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside Easiest Cheesecake Ever for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover raisin spice bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Spice Bars contains roughly 871 calories, with 6g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), protein (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, chopped apricots, or dates. Each will impart a different flavor profile to the bars, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
What can I do if my bars are too dry?
If your bars turn out too dry, ensure you’re measuring your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to dryness. Additionally, consider adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of milk to the batter to enhance moisture. Serving with a sauce can also add moisture.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free raisin spice bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder and soda are also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the recipe without gluten while maintaining a similar texture.
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).