Soft Spice Bars
Soft spice bars are flavorful, chewy treats with warm cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy snacking, appealing to spice lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted margarine, 1 cup sugar, and molasses.
- Beat in the egg until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground ginger.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the molasses mixture.
- Spread the batter into a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Cool on a wire rack before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. Ensure you measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off, as too much flour can make the bars dense. If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the cinnamon or cloves slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These soft spice bars are perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy pairing. For an added touch, drizzle a simple icing over the top or serve with whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with one of your favorite American recipes, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled spice bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Spice Bars contains roughly 98 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but start with a 50-50 blend to maintain the texture. Whole wheat flour can make the bars denser, so adjusting the ratio can help achieve a lighter result.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are lightly browned on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary based on your oven and the pan used.
Can I freeze these spice bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
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).