Raisin Bars

📜 Collection: Unknown Twenty Six | ✍️ Attribution: Lois M. | 📂 Category: Desserts A delightful old-fashioned recipe for spiced raisin bars, featuring a tender crumb and sweet fruit filling. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or family gathering.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
15 mins20 minsNone16 bars

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Jelly roll pan

Ingredients

Filling & Base

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1 cupRaisinsPlumped
2 cupsWaterFor simmering
1 cupSugarGranulated
2 tbspShorteningSoftened
1EggBeaten
1 tspBaking SodaNone
1 tspNutmegGround
2 tspCinnamonGround
1/2 tspSaltNone
1/2 tspVanilla ExtractLiquid
2 cupsFlourAll-purpose

Instructions

Step 1: Simmering Raisins

  1. Combine 1 cup raisins and 2 cups water in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Ensure you have 1 cup liquid left; add more water if necessary.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

  1. Cream together 1 cup sugar and 2 tbsp shortening, then add 1 egg.
  2. Stir in 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp nutmeg, 2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
  3. Mix in 2 cups flour, then gently fold in the cooked 1 cup raisins last.

Step 3: Baking

  1. Spread the batter evenly into a greased jelly roll pan or cookie sheet.
  2. Bake until golden brown and set in the center, checking for a fragrant spiced aroma.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card