World War Ii Raisin Squares
A hearty raisin square with warm spices, rich cocoa, and coffee flavors, perfect as a comforting snack or dessert for those who enjoy bold, sweet, and spiced baked goods.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. dark raisins ⓘ
- 2 1/2 c. water ⓘ
- 1/3 c. plus 1 Tbsp. tasteless salad oil ⓘ
- 3/4 c. granulated sugar ⓘ
- 1 tsp. baking soda ⓘ
- 1 c. sifted all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 c. sifted all-purpose wheat flour ⓘ
- 1 tsp. cinnamon ⓘ
- 1 tsp. allspice ⓘ
- 1 tsp. cloves
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. powdered instant coffee or Espresso ⓘ
- 1 large lemon rind, finely grated ⓘ
Instructions
- Adjust a rack one-third up from the bottom of the oven and preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Line a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan with aluminum foil, turning the pan over and covering it with a 12-inch square of foil.
- Press down the sides and corners of the foil to shape it, then remove the foil.
- Turn the pan over again, place the foil in the pan, and press it into place.
- Place a piece of butter in the pan and put it in the oven to melt, then spread the melted butter over the bottom and sides of the foil with a pastry brush or crumbled wax paper.
- Set aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider soaking the dark raisins in warm water or even a splash of rum for about 30 minutes before adding them to the mix. If you're out of all-purpose wheat flour, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. Adjust the spices to your preference; adding a pinch of cardamom can provide a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
These raisin squares are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of Raspberry Sauce(Hindbaersovs) for added sweetness. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat, or enjoy them as a nostalgic dessert after a hearty meal like Turkish Meat Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the raisin squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, keeping them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of World War Ii Raisin Squares contains roughly 362 calories, with 5g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1422mg per serving (62% 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 other types of dried fruit instead of raisins?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and moisture content may vary, so adjust the sugar and water accordingly if needed.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If you find the dough too dry, try adding a tablespoon of water or oil gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. Be careful not to overdo it; you want a moist but manageable dough that holds together without being sticky.
How can I enhance the flavor of the squares?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of orange zest to the batter. You can also experiment with different spices or even incorporate chopped nuts for added texture and taste.
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).