Saucepan Raisin Spice Bars
Sweet and spicy raisin spice bars feature warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for a quick treat or snack that appeals to those fond of comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the bottom of a cookie sheet with margarine.
- Combine water and raisins in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the saucepan and stir well.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Beat the egg and add it to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cookie sheet and spread evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also substitute half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture. Make sure to keep an eye on the bars while baking to avoid overcooking, as they can become dry.
Serving Suggestions
These Saucepan Raisin Spice Bars are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a full dessert spread, consider offering them alongside American recipes like Grandma's Raisin Bars or Olive Craver's Bread Pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucepan Raisin Spice Bars contains roughly 667 calories, with 7g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1585mg per serving (69% 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 different types of dried fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits such as chopped dates, cranberries, or apricots. Just ensure that the total amount of dried fruit remains the same, about 1/2 cup, to maintain the balance of moisture in the bars.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can replace margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter can work as great substitutes in this recipe.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep in mind that they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so avoid over-baking.
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).