Raisin cake bars are the perfect balance of sweet, chewy, and lightly spiced—an ideal treat for afternoon tea, school lunchboxes, or a simple homemade dessert. Unlike traditional cakes, these bars are portable, easy to serve, and packed with the wholesome flavor of plump raisins and warm spices.
Why Raisin Cake Bars Are Special
Raisin cake bars combine the charm of a classic fruitcake with the convenience of a bar dessert. Each bite offers a soft, tender cake base dotted with raisins that burst with sweetness. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, making them feel cozy and comforting. They are versatile too—you can sprinkle nuts for crunch, drizzle a glaze for extra sweetness, or enjoy them plain for a wholesome snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a batch of delicious raisin cake bars, gather the following:
For the batter:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
1 cup raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes for extra plumpness, then drained)
Optional additions:
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
A light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk