Old Fashioned Raisin Bars Recipe
As I walked into my grandmother’s kitchen, I was engulfed by the comforting aroma of cinnamon and spices. My eyes were drawn to a tray of beautifully baked old fashioned raisin bars, ready to be savored.
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Servings: 8
Calories: 225kcal
Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or greasing agent for the baking pan
- Wire rack
- Small bowl for soaking raisins
- Knife or tool for slicing bars
- Whisk or spoon for mixing ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts pecans or walnuts
- Topping for Raisin Bars:
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 1/2 cups confectionery sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla Enough milk to make spreadable or to make think enough to drizzle over raisin bars.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing The Raisin Filling
- Start by combining the raisins and water in a small saucepan. Bring them to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool. This process ensures the plumpness and tenderness of the raisins.
Step 2: Making The Dough
- In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts and the cooled raisin mixture. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Baking The Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press the dough evenly into the prepared dish, ensuring an even thickness throughout. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 4: Adding The Topping
- While the bars are cooling, prepare the vanilla glaze by mixing together melted butter, confectionery sugar, and vanilla essence. Add enough milk to reach a spreadable consistency or enough to make a thin drizzle, based on your preference. Once the bars have cooled, spread or drizzle the glaze over the top.
Notes
- – Soak the raisins long enough to make them plump and juicy.
- – Ensure the dough is evenly spread in the baking dish for consistent bars.
- – Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the topping for optimal results.
- – Experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to suit your taste preferences.
- – To achieve a thicker glaze, use less milk, or add more for a thinner, drizzle-style topping.