Spanish Bar Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
This recipe brings back the nostalgic flavors of the iconic A&P Spanish Bar Cake — a beloved spiced raisin cake that graced many American tables in the mid-20th century. It’s known for its dark, moist texture, warm spices, and simple yet irresistible charm. Topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting, this version elevates the humble treat into a timeless dessert.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The Spanish Bar Cake rose to fame through the A&P (The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company) grocery stores, which sold this dessert as a staple item across America for decades. Despite its name, the cake has no direct ties to Spain. The term “Spanish” was likely used to evoke a sense of exotic spice. Generations of families fondly remember it as an affordable, comforting dessert — a symbol of simplicity, warmth, and shared family moments.
Ingredients Quantity
Cake:
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (½ cup for extra texture)
- Orange zest (½ tsp for a citrus twist)
- A splash of molasses (1 tbsp for deeper flavor)
- Substitute half of the water with brewed coffee to enhance the spice notes
Tips for Success
- Simmer the raisins until they plump up — this keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a soft, tender crumb.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a silky-smooth frosting.
- Cool the cake completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store in the fridge for the best texture and shelf life, but let it come to room temperature before serving for full flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8×8-inch pans.
- In a saucepan, combine raisins and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in oil and sugar. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add the raisin mixture, beaten egg, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s). Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the frosting: Beat together cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until smooth.
- Spread frosting over the cooled cake. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Description
The Spanish Bar Cake is rich with cozy spices, tender raisins, and a moist crumb. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy-sweet contrast, making every bite an indulgent balance of spice and creaminess. The cake’s deep color and aroma transport you to a simpler time — it’s pure comfort in dessert form.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Sugar: 34g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
Conclusion
This Spanish Bar Cake recipe is a delightful tribute to a treasured classic. It’s simple enough for everyday enjoyment yet special enough for holidays and gatherings. The warm spices and rich frosting offer a beautiful marriage of flavors that bring joy and comfort in every bite.
Recommendation
Serve this cake with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a dusting of nutmeg on top. It’s perfect for family get-togethers, potlucks, or as a nostalgic homemade gift.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this cake leans toward the indulgent side, it also embraces natural ingredients like raisins and warming spices known for their antioxidant properties. To make it lighter, try reducing the sugar slightly or swapping in Greek yogurt for part of the oil. Ultimately, a slice of this nostalgic delight offers more than flavor — it serves up a warm hug from the past.