Classic A&P Spanish Bar Cake – Moist Raisin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This nostalgic A&P Spanish Bar Cake is a moist, spiced raisin cake layered with rich cream cheese frosting. Inspired by the iconic grocery store favorite, this homemade version brings back classic flavors with simple ingredients. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients for A&P Spanish Bar Cake

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 (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg & cloves)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

Instructions: How to Make the A&P Spanish Bar Cake

✅ Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large saucepan, combine water and raisins. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 10 minutes to soften the raisins.

3. Add the vegetable oil to the hot raisin mixture, then allow it to cool to room temperature.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt to break up any lumps.

5. Mix the dry ingredients into the cooled raisin mixture until well combined.

6. Stir in the beaten egg and chopped walnuts (if using).

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

8. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing.

✅ Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, mixing until light and fluffy.

✅ Step 3: Assemble the Spanish Bar Cake

1. Once cooled, remove the cake from the pan and place it on a cutting board.

2. Carefully slice the cake horizontally in half to create two layers.

3. Place the bottom layer on a serving tray and spread half of the frosting evenly across the top.

4. Place the second cake layer on top, and spread the remaining frosting over the surface.

5. For a classic look, use a fork to draw grooved lines across the frosting.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the raisin mixture cool fully before adding the egg to avoid curdling.

• Chill the cake after frosting for clean, firm slices.

• Add a touch of vanilla or lemon zest to the frosting for extra flavor.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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