National Raisin and Spice Bar Day

Today, April 5th, is National Raisin and Spice Bar day.  Here again, as posted last year, is my favorite Raisen Spice Bar recipe.  Perfect with a glass of cold milk or fresh coffee.  Enjoy!

Raisin Spice Bars
· 1 cup raisins
· 1 cup water
· 1/2 cup shortening or veg oil
· 1 cup sugar
· 1 egg, slightly beaten
· 1 3/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· 1 teaspoon soda
· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
· 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
· 1 teaspoon ground allspice
· dash ground cloves
· 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

PREPARATION:
Combine raisins and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in oil; cool to lukewarm. Stir in the sugar and beaten egg. Sift together dry ingredients; with a wooden spoon beat into the raisin mixture. Stir in chopped nuts. Pour into a greased and floured 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Bake at 375° for 18 to 24 minutes. Cool in pan then cut into bars. If desired, dust with confectioners' sugar. Makes about 24 bars.

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