cinnamon raisin bars

Here’s a delicious recipe for Cinnamon Raisin Bars—soft, chewy, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor:

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Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Raisin Filling:

• 1/2 cup raisins
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for richness)

Optional Topping:

• 2–3 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting
• Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

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Method

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Base:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla.
   • Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
   • Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
3. Prepare the Cinnamon-Raisin Filling:
   • In a small bowl, mix raisins, cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter (if using).
   • Spread evenly over the base layer.
4. Top Layer:
   • Crumble the remaining dough over the cinnamon-raisin filling. It doesn’t need to completely cover—small gaps are fine; they add texture.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
6. Cool & Serve:
   • Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
   • Optionally dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
   • Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!

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Tips for Best Results

• Soak raisins in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes before baking to make them plumper.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for extra warmth.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or freeze for longer storage.