A&P Spanish Bar

An Old-Fashioned Treat: A&P Spanish Bar

Nostalgia comes packed in a sweet treat — A&P Spanish Bar. This copycat of a Jane Parker classic has all the flavors of the original 20th-century snack. A mildly spiced, raisin-studded cake is layered with thick cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s morning, noon, or night, you’ll find a way (or excuse) to eat a slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful throwback to a time when simple, homemade treats were the highlight of any day. The A&P Spanish Bar offers a perfect balance of spices and sweetness, with the added texture of raisins and walnuts for those who choose to include them. It’s easy to prepare and promises to bring a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Cutting board
• Serving tray

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups water
• 3/4 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup walnuts, very finely chopped (optional)

For the Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

To Make the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease an 8×8 pan with baking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine water and raisins and bring to a gentle boil, cooking for 10 minutes. Add vegetable oil to the boiled mixture and allow it to cool to room temperature.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt, whisking to break up any lumps.
4. Mix the dry ingredients into the boiled raisin mixture. Add the egg and walnuts (if using).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, about 35 to 40 minutes. Cool completely before assembling.

To Make the Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and free of lumps, about 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, beating until smooth.

To Assemble the A&P Spanish Bar:

1. Remove the cake from the baking pan and place it on a cutting board.
2. Slice the cake in half.
3. Transfer one layer to a serving tray and apply frosting on top.
4. Top with the second layer and cover with the remaining frosting.
5. For a grooved pattern, use a fork to draw lines in the frosting.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting for a smooth consistency.
• Allow the raisin mixture to cool completely before adding the egg to prevent it from cooking in the warm mixture.
• Use parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Substitute pecans for walnuts, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract to the frosting for extra flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Sugar: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil or melted coconut oil.

How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layer for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding frosting and serving.

Conclusion

There you have it! This A&P Spanish Bar is a perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor. It’s a simple yet delightful treat that will surely impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences or any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy!