Get ready to revolutionize your dessert game with these irresistible Sour Cream Raisin Bars that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine a perfectly balanced treat that combines the creamy richness of sour cream, the sweet burst of plump raisins, and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these bars are about to become your new go-to dessert that promises to impress at potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a delightful weekend indulgence.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup raisins
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gently fold the sour cream into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Fold in the raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for about 1 hour before cutting into bars.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light glaze if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Raisin Prep: Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the batter to prevent them from burning and ensure they're plump and soft.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the bars tender and prevent a tough texture.
- Even Baking: Use a light-colored metal baking pan for more even heat distribution and to prevent over-browning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to help them set and make clean, precise cuts.
- Storage Tip: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light vanilla glaze just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 70mg
