Applesauce Raisin Bars are delicious (and easy to make), with chunky applesauce, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and walnuts (makes 24).
- 2 cups sifted all purpose flour
- 1 cup chunky applesauce can substitute regular
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter =8 Tbl.- melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1¾ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
-
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9" x 13" baking pan (with edges) with non-stick baking spray.
-
Measure all ingredients (except powdered sugar) into a large mixing bowl. Stir well until ingredients are fully combined (batter is very thick.).
-
Place batter by large spoonfuls into the pan. Use the back of the spoon to press the batter firmly down into the pan, completely filling it from edge to edge and into every corner.
-
Place the baking sheet on a middle rack in oven. Bake at 350°F. for 25-28 minutes (mine usually are done at 25 minutes, so check them at that point). To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean (free of batter), bars are done. Remove pan from oven; transfer it to a wire rack to cool.
-
After the bars have cooled for about 10 minutes, slice them evenly into 24 pieces (still in the pan). Let cool completely, then serve as is OR sift powdered sugar over the top of the bars (optional) and then serve. Enjoy!