sour cream raisin bars recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best sour cream raisin bars recipe

I’ve always been a fan of classic American desserts, and sour cream raisin bars are one of my absolute favorites. There’s something about the combination of the tangy sour cream and sweet raisins that just makes my heart skip a beat.

I first discovered this recipe when I was in my early twenties, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. My kids love helping me make it, and they can’t get enough of the gooey, caramel-like filling that oozes out of the bars when you take a bite.

But what I really love about this recipe is that it’s not just a sweet treat – it’s also a great way to use up ingredients like sour cream and raisins that might be lingering in your fridge. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to use their kitchenaid stand mixer?

I’ve made this recipe for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a quick snack on a Tuesday afternoon. It’s one of those recipes that’s always a crowd-pleaser, no matter what the occasion may be.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients – just what I need when I’m short on time or energy.

But don’t just take my word for it – give this recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s become such a beloved classic in our household.

Sour Cream Raisin Bars

4.8 from 1383 votes

Sour Cream Raisin Bars are a delightful treat combining the tanginess of sour cream with the sweetness of raisins. These bars are perfect for a quick snack or a dessert option.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling

1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Line a 9×9-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the edges extend over the sides for easy removal.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
4Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
5Add the softened butter and sugar, then mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together.
7Press half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet, creating a firm base.
8Set aside the remaining dough for the topping.
9In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
10Stir in the raisins and walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
11Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the dough base.
12Crumble the remaining dough over the filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
13The topping should be slightly crumbly and not completely cover the filling.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are lightly browned.
15The bars should be set and firm to the touch.
16Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
17Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan.
18Cut into squares and serve.
19The bars should be slightly sticky and moist from the sour cream and raisins.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Parchment paper

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.

Watch Video Of How Sour Cream Raisin Bars Works

These sour cream raisin bars are a versatile treat that works well for any occasion. They are easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prepping or having a quick snack on hand.

I often double the recipe when I have a family gathering coming up, as they disappear quickly. Serve them at room temperature or slightly chilled, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sour Cream Raisin Bars

1. Can I use plain yogurt instead of sour cream in the recipe?

While plain yogurt can be used as a substitute, it will slightly alter the taste and texture. Sour cream provides a richer, tangier flavor and a creamier consistency. If you use yogurt, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for a similar texture.

2. How should I store leftover sour cream raisin bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

3. Can I add other mix-ins to the raisin filling?

Absolutely. Feel free to add other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or cherries. You can also mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

4. Why do I need to refrigerate the bars before cutting?

Refrigerating the bars before cutting helps them set and makes it easier to achieve clean, even slices. The cold temperature firms up the sour cream filling, preventing it from oozing out when you cut the bars.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the oats used are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. The texture might vary slightly, but the bars will still be delicious.

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