Ingredients

The following ingredients have 40 Servings
  • 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2/3 cup vegetable shortening
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon rum extract
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1-1/2 cups golden raisins
  • 3/4 cup walnuts (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 2 teaspoons rum (see notes)
  • 2 teaspoons water

Instruction

  • Preheat the oven to 375° and grease a 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
  • Measure the sifted flour, then add the baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. Sift the ingredients together a second time and set aside.
  • Cream the shortening and sugar together, then add the molasses, egg, rum extract, water., and vinegar. Beat until smooth, then stir in the dry ingredients, raisins, and walnuts.
  • Spread the batter in the prepared baking pan, using your fingers to pat into an even layer. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Watch carefully and don't over bake.
  • Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a large cooling rack. Allow to cool for another 10 minutes, and transfer to a cutting board.
  • In a small bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar, rum, and water until it forms a smooth glaze. Brush the glaze over the top of the bars, allow to harden and use a sharp knife to cut them into 1-1/2 x 1-1/4-inch bars.
  • Store in a tightly sealed container, using wax paper between the layers.
  • For best results, use very fresh spices and be sure your raisins are moist and plump.