Raisin Cake Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth

🧑‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment.
2. Boil raisins:
   In a saucepan, combine milk and raisins. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Cream butter & sugar:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs & vanilla:
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional spices.
6. Combine all:
   Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Then fold in the warm milk and raisins. Mix until just combined.
7. Bake:
   Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool & cut:
   Let cool completely before cutting into squares or bars.