Classic A&P Spanish Bar with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm, spiced, and irresistibly moist, the A&P Spanish Bar is a nostalgic dessert that has stood the test of time. This beloved cake features tender raisins infused into a lightly spiced batter and is crowned with a silky cream cheese frosting that adds just the right touch of tang and sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or simply treating yourself, this timeless favorite delivers comforting flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups |
| Raisins | ¾ cup |
| Vegetable Oil | ½ cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Pumpkin Pie Spice | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Fine Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Large Egg, lightly beaten | 1 |
| Walnuts, finely chopped (optional) | ¾ cup |
For the Frosting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese, room temperature | 8 ounces |
| Unsalted Butter, room temperature | ¼ cup |
| Powdered Sugar | 2 ¼ cups |
| Fine Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Cook the Raisins: In a saucepan, combine the water and raisins. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the vegetable oil, then let cool to room temperature.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine: Add the cooled raisin mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir in the egg and optional walnuts. Mix until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
2. Make the Frosting
- Cream Butter and Cheese: Beat cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and lump-free (2–3 minutes).
- Add Sugar and Salt: Gradually add powdered sugar and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the A&P Spanish Bar
- Slice the Cake: Remove the cooled cake from the pan and slice horizontally to create two layers.
- Layer and Frost: Place one layer on a serving tray. Spread half the frosting on top, then add the second layer and frost the top.
- Decorate (Optional): Use a fork to make grooves in the frosting for a classic touch.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this delicious, nostalgic treat!
