How to Make Molasses Bars

Molasses bars are a popular snack in the South, a spicy and sweet bar that can easily be packed for lunch on a busy day. Molasses add a unique flavor to any baked treat, and can be served year-round. Many people think of molasses as gingerbread, but these bars are quite different. They're full of the rich taste of molasses but balanced with spices and salt. Here's how to make a batch of delicious molasses bars.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. baking soda
• ¼ tsp. ground cloves
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• ¼ tsp. nutmeg
• ½ cup vegetable shortening
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ cup molasses
• ½ cup water
• 13-inch jelly roll pan

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Spray the jelly roll pan with baking spray and set aside.
3. Prepare the flour mixture. Sift the flour, salt, spices, baking soda and baking powder over a large bowl.
4. Prepare the batter. Combine the shortening, sugar and egg in medium bowl and blend with electric mixer. Stir in the molasses and ¼ cup water. Blend thoroughly.
5. Add flour mixture to batter. Slowly add flour mixture, continuing to mix the molasses mixture on low speed with the electric mixer.
6. Blend until batter is smooth.
7. Pour batter into baking pan.
8. Bake for 25 minutes until cake is cooked in the center. Test with a toothpick.
9. Let the bars cool. Leave in pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting.

Tips & Warnings

• Top the bars with a dusting of powdered sugar while still warm.
• Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Serve with coffee or tea.