Classic A&P Spanish Bar Recipe: A Timeless Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Looking for a nostalgic dessert that delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort? Look no further than the Classic A&P Spanish Bar, a moist and aromatic spice cake loaded with plump raisins, warm spices, and crowned with a rich cream cheese frosting. This cake, once a bakery staple at the legendary A&P grocery stores, has earned a place in the hearts (and kitchens) of dessert lovers everywhere. Its simple preparation and classic flavors make it an irresistible treat for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon snack.

 Ingredients & Their Purpose

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups water
  Hydrates the raisins and infuses moisture into the cake batter.

• 3/4 cup raisins
  Adds chewy sweetness and nostalgic texture.

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  Provides essential fat, keeping the cake tender and moist.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  The structural base of the cake, giving it body and substance.

• 1 cup granulated sugar
  Sweetens the cake and helps with browning.

• 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  Infuses the cake with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  Acts as a leavening agent, creating a light, airy crumb.

• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  Binds ingredients together and provides structure.

• 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped (optional)
  Adds texture and a nutty crunch that complements the raisins.

Frosting Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  Provides a tangy, creamy base for the frosting.

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  Adds richness and helps create a smooth consistency.

• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
  Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a spreadable texture.

• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  Cuts the sweetness and elevates the flavor of the frosting.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cake

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Cook Raisins:
   In a medium saucepan, combine water and raisins. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. This step plumps the raisins and creates a flavorful base.

3. Add Oil and Cool:
   Stir in the vegetable oil and let the mixture cool to room temperature. This prevents the egg from cooking prematurely in the next step.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.

5. Combine Mixtures:
   Add the cooled raisin mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until just moistened. Add the beaten egg and walnuts (if using), mixing gently until incorporated. Do not overmix.

6. Bake the Cake:
   Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. The cake will be fragrant, golden, and slightly springy.

7. Cool Completely:
   Let the cake cool fully in the pan before removing or slicing.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:
   In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (2–3 minutes).

2. Add Sugar and Salt:
   Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and salt until light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.

Assemble the Spanish Bar

1. Slice the Cake:
   Once cooled, slice the cake horizontally to create two even layers.

2. Frost and Stack:
   Place the bottom layer on a serving tray. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top evenly.

3. Optional Pattern:
   Use a fork to create traditional grooves or decorative lines across the top frosting for a classic touch.

 Why This Recipe is Loved

• Moist texture from simmered raisins and oil

• Nostalgic flavor with warm spices and tangy frosting

• Easy ingredients found in any pantry

• Elegant presentation without the fuss of a traditional layer cake

 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Cool the raisin mixture completely before adding the egg to prevent scrambling.

• Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until everything is combined.

• Chill the cake for 30–60 minutes after frosting for cleaner, more defined slices.

• Toast the walnuts before adding for enhanced nutty flavor.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for a firmer texture, or at room temperature for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Pair with coffee, chai, or a spiced black tea to enhance the warm notes.

• Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

 Storage

Store leftover Spanish Bar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

 Final Thoughts: A Classic That Never Fails

This Classic A&P Spanish Bar is more than a dessert—it’s a trip back in time. With its moist crumb, rich spice flavor, and velvety cream cheese frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you’re recreating a family tradition or discovering it for the first time, this cake promises simplicity, nostalgia, and unforgettable flavor.

Make it once, and it’ll become a staple in your recipe box.