Clara's Spice Bars

Yay! Autumn has found her way to us! I have been holding on to this recipe until her arrival because, with their warm spices, I think these are perfect for this time of year. This is Grandma Clara's coveted Spice Bar recipe and you are very lucky that I am sharing it with you! Whenever we visited, Grandma had a big Tupperware full of these yummies waiting for us, so I guess you could say they are one of my favorite comfort foods. One taste and they just may become yours, too!





Bars:
1 3/4 c plus 2 T sugar
1/2 c honey
2 1/4 c shortening
1 egg
1/2 c molasses
2 t cinnamon
2 t ginger
1 t ground cloves
4 1/4 c flour
1 T plus 1 1/2 t baking soda
1 c raisins

Glaze:
2 T water
1 t lemon juice
1 c confectioners' sugar

Method:
1. Cream sugar, honey, shortening and egg.
2. Add molasses.
3. Sift all dry ingredients and add to mixture.
4. Stir in raisins. (I prefer my bars without.)
5. Measure out 1-cup batches. Roll into logs 2" in diameter.
6. Place 2 logs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Press with fingers to about 1" thick.
8. Bake at 375 for about 10 minutes.
9. Mix glaze ingredients.
10. Glaze bars while still warm.
11. Cut along a diagonal to create diamond shapes.
12. Serve with a cup of Friendship Tea. Enjoy!

Click on the recipe card below to print out your very own!