Raisin Spice Squares
Raisin Spice Squares are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of raisins and sugar. These moist, flavorful squares are perfect for gatherings, offering a comforting taste that appeals to both young and old alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Boil raisins rapidly in 2 cups water in an uncovered medium-sized saucepan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the raisins to a large bowl and cool to lukewarm.
- Stir in the egg, then add the shortening and sugar.
- Sift the flour and dry ingredients together and add to the mixture.
- Add the raisin mixture and walnuts.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely and frost with orange icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of allspice or ginger to the spice mix. If you don’t have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be excellent substitutes. To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Ensure the raisins are plump by soaking them in warm water before boiling. This dish pairs beautifully with Chocolate Pecan Puffs.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a drizzle of orange icing for added sweetness. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert. For a festive touch, enjoy them with Granny'S Fruit Cake during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Raisin Spice Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Spice Squares contains roughly 463 calories, with 7g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% 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 a different type of dried fruit instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries can be wonderful alternatives. Just chop them into smaller pieces if they are large, and adjust the boiling time accordingly, as some fruits may require less time to soften.
How can I make these squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Raisin Spice Squares, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the squares?
Consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of orange juice to the batter for additional flavor. You can also add some grated orange zest to the icing for a fresh citrus note that complements the spices beautifully.
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).