Apple Raisin Bars

This recipe was in an October 2011 issue of Family Circle. I was thrilled to get it because at the time our apple tree was producing more apples than I could possibly keep up with.

Apple Raisin Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups packaged light-brown sugar
2 eggs
½ cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups diced Golden Delicious apple
¾ cup raisins

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Liberally coat a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a medium-size bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt; set aside.

In a large bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, blend together sugar, eggs, butter and vanilla for 3 minutes or until smooth.

Reduce speed to low and gradually add flour mixture; mix for 2 minutes or until just incorporated. Stir in diced apples and raisins and spread into prepared pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cook completely before cutting into bars and serving.

Makes 12 bars, at 338 calories per serving.