Spice Bars Recipe

Nostalgic and irresistible Spice Bars, just like Grandma used to make! Perfect for after-school snacks, lunchboxes, or bake sales. This easy recipe, originally from Bon Appetit (April 1982), delivers chewy, spiced goodness in every bite. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 69.6 kcal
Protein 1g
Rating 4.0 (2 Reviews)
Spice Bars 49

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Spice Bars

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How to Make Spice Bars

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 10x15 inch baking pan.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Stir in 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans and ½ cup raisins.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let cool completely in the pan before frosting.
  11. For the icing: Whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar and 2-4 tablespoons milk or water until smooth and pourable. Add more milk/water for desired consistency.
  12. Once the bars are completely cool, frost evenly with the icing.
  13. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

30g

Fat

2g

Carbs

3g