Old-Fashioned Raisin Cake Bars

Introduction

Old-Fashioned Raisin Cake Bars are a nostalgic treat that bring the comforting flavors of home baking straight to your kitchen.
Moist, warmly spiced, and naturally sweet from plump raisins, these classic bars are perfect for afternoon tea,
lunchboxes, or a cozy dessert after dinner. Their soft texture and rich aroma make them a timeless favorite
that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves (for extra spice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Raisins:
   In a small saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
   Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Combine Mixtures:
   Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir in the raisin mixture (including liquid).
   Fold in nuts if using.
7. Bake:
   Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted
   in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Slice:
   Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles.

Description

These Old-Fashioned Raisin Cake Bars are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced. The boiled raisins add moisture
and deepen the flavor, while the blend of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting aroma.
Each bite is sweet but balanced, with optional nuts adding a delightful crunch.

Tips for Best Results

• Soaking and simmering the raisins ensures they stay juicy and soft.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
• For extra richness, add a simple powdered sugar glaze on top.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Correction & Helpful Notes

• If the batter seems too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk.
• If bars turn out dry, slightly reduce baking time next time.
• Make sure baking soda and baking powder are fresh for proper rise.

Enjoy!

Serve these delightful raisin cake bars with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting homemade treat.
They also freeze well, making them perfect for preparing ahead and enjoying whenever you crave a taste of tradition.