If you grew up with a grandmother who loved to bake, chances are you’ve encountered a version of these old-fashioned raisin bars.
This recipe is a tribute to simpler times—when recipes came handwritten on index cards, butter was always on the counter, and the scent of cinnamon and cloves signaled something good was coming out of the oven.
These raisin bars are soft, cake-like, and packed with plump raisins simmered in sugar and spice. Topped with a thin vanilla glaze, they’re sweet without being cloying, hearty without being heavy, and perfect for snacking, lunchboxes, or an afternoon coffee break. They’re the kind of humble treat that quietly becomes a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and heartwarming flavor. The batter is quick to mix, and the ingredient list is short and sweet—just pantry staples and a little time on the stove to plump the raisins.
The combination of warm spices and chewy raisins gives each bar that timeless “grandma’s kitchen” taste. Even better? These bars are easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and stay moist for days.
Whether you’re baking for a bake sale, church potluck, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need something comforting, these raisin bars deliver every time.
What You’ll Need
For the Bars
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup raisins
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Pro Tips
- Simmer raisins in water until plump and soft—this step gives the bars their signature texture.
- Let the raisin mixture cool slightly before adding the egg to prevent scrambling.
- Use fresh spices—they really shine in this simple recipe.
- Don’t overbake—the bars should stay soft and chewy.
- Thin the glaze slowly—add milk a little at a time until it’s pourable but not runny.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Small bowl for glaze
- Offset spatula or spoon for spreading
Substitutions and Variations
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch and extra heartiness.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for the glaze.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for more warmth.
- Orange twist: Stir in 1 tsp of orange zest to the batter or glaze.
- Frost instead: For a thicker topping, double the glaze and spread generously.
Make Ahead Tips
- Bake and store: Bars stay moist in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Glaze ahead: Let glaze dry completely before storing to prevent sticking.
- Freeze: Wrap bars (glazed or unglazed) individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave briefly.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Raisin Bars
Step 1: Simmer the Raisins
In a medium saucepan, combine water and raisins. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in butter until melted. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk sugar and egg until combined. Stir in the slightly cooled raisin mixture. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Step 5: Make and Spread Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle or spread over cooled bars.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Let glaze set, then slice into squares or bars and serve with coffee, tea, or as a lunchbox treat.
Leftovers and Storage
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer freshness, refrigerate up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Wrap bars in parchment and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
❓ Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use golden raisins?
Yes! They’re slightly sweeter and give a lighter flavor.
2. What kind of glaze works best?
Simple vanilla glaze is classic, but lemon or orange glaze works beautifully too.
3. Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce by ¼ cup without drastically changing texture.
4. Are these bars more like cake or cookies?
They’re cake-like—moist, soft, and tender, but sturdy enough to pick up and eat by hand.
A Bite of Tradition – Why These Raisin Bars Belong in Your Recipe Box
These old-fashioned raisin bars are the kind of nostalgic treat that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. They’re quick, comforting, and made to be shared—just like the best family recipes.
Bake a batch, brew some coffee, and enjoy a little slice of the past. And when you do, don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me if this reminded you of your grandma’s baking—I’d love to hear your story!
