Old-Fashioned Raisin Cake Bars

Soft, warmly spiced, and full of nostalgic charm, these bars blend the cozy flavor of gingerbread with the chewy sweetness of raisins. Moist and tender, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, they’re the kind of simple treat that feels straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Perfect with tea, as a quick breakfast bite, or as a comforting dessert that warms the heart.

Raisin Cake Bars

 Ingredients (8×8-inch pan)

For the Bars

• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk
• 1 cup (150 g) raisins (golden or dark)

Optional Glaze

• ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 1–2 tsp milk or cream
• Pinch of cinnamon

 Pro Tips

• Soak raisins in warm water or tea for 10 minutes to plump them up.
• Avoid overmixing to keep the bars soft and tender.
• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth, even batter.

 Instructions

1. Prep & Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add egg and vanilla and mix until combined.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix gently until just combined. Fold in the drained raisins.

4. Bake
Spread batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before slicing.

5. Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars for a sweet finishing touch.