Introduction
Raisin Cake Bars are soft, moist, and lightly spiced treats filled with sweet raisins in every bite. These bars are easy to make and perfect for snacking, lunchboxes, or serving with coffee or tea. They deliver classic homemade flavor in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
1 cup raisins
1 cup hot water
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional topping:
Powdered sugar or simple glaze
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Place raisins in a bowl and pour hot water over them. Let soak for 10 minutes, then drain (reserve 2 tablespoons of soaking liquid if desired).
In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in soaked raisins and optional reserved liquid for extra moisture.
Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Description
These Raisin Cake Bars are tender, moist, and gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. The raisins add natural sweetness and a chewy texture, making these bars comforting and satisfying without being overly sweet.
Tips
Soaking raisins keeps them plump and prevents dryness.
Do not overmix the batter to keep bars soft.
Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Allow bars to cool fully before slicing for clean edges.
Variations
Nutty Raisin Bars: Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
Spiced Raisin Bars: Add ground cloves or ginger.
Orange Raisin Bars: Add orange zest for citrus flavor.
Glazed Bars: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Whole Wheat: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Correction
If bars are dry: Bake for less time or add a tablespoon of reserved raisin water.
If bars are dense: Batter may have been overmixed.
If bars sink: Ensure baking soda is fresh and oven is fully preheated.
Enjoy
Enjoy Raisin Cake Bars as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat with coffee or tea. These simple, classic bars are perfect for sharing and storing for later enjoyment.