These soft, spiced bars are studded with plump raisins and have a lovely cake-like texture. Perfect for lunchboxes, coffee breaks, or afternoon snacks.
Ingredients
For the Bars:
· 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon baking powder
· ½ teaspoon baking soda
· ½ teaspoon salt
· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
· ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
· ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
· ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
· ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk or sour cream
· 1 ½ cups (210g) raisins
· Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For the Glaze (Optional):
· 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
· 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
· ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare:
· Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
· In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. - Soak Raisins (Optional but Recommended):
· Place raisins in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let sit for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This plumps them up and prevents sinking. - Make Batter:
· In a large bowl, beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
· Add eggs one at a time, beating after each. Mix in vanilla.
· Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
· Fold in drained raisins and nuts (if using). - Bake:
· Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
· Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
· Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. - Glaze (Optional):
· Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars.
· Allow glaze to set before slicing.
Tips
· For extra flavor, soak raisins in warm tea, apple juice, or a splash of rum instead of water.
· These bars freeze well—wrap individually and store for up to 2 months.
· For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk mixed with ½ teaspoon vinegar (in place of buttermilk).
Enjoy these moist, comforting raisin cake bars with a cup of tea or coffee!