Soft Spicy Bars
Soft Spicy Bars are flavorful, moist treats with warm spices, raisins or dates, and a hint of molasses, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy snacking. They suit all spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and salad oil together.
- Add the egg to the creamed mixture and beat well.
- Sift together flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with molasses and milk.
- Stir in raisins or dates.
- Spread the batter on a greased cookie sheet and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, which adds moisture. You can substitute vegetable oil if salad oil is unavailable. For added flavor, try incorporating chopped nuts or chocolate chips. If you prefer a spicier bar, increase the cinnamon or add ginger. These bars are quite versatile, making them a great addition to any dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Soft Spicy Bars warm or at room temperature, and consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also work well as a snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving or pair with a side of Blueberry Cream Cheese Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at low heat to revive their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Spicy Bars contains roughly 1471 calories, with 20g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2133mg per serving (93% 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 flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though it may alter the texture slightly. If you want gluten-free bars, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be sure to check the consistency of the batter as you mix in the dry ingredients.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, keeping in mind that these will slightly change the flavor. For a darker, richer taste, try using dark corn syrup. Adjust the sweetness as necessary, especially if using a sweeter option like honey.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
You can check if the bars are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready. Keep in mind that they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it's better to err on the side of underbaking slightly.
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).