The A&P CopyCat Spanish Bar Cake holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of many who recall the once-popular supermarket chain A&P (The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company). Originating from this iconic store, the Spanish Bar Cake is a rich, spiced cake often containing raisins and frosted with a luscious cream cheese icing. Although the name might suggest a European origin, this cake is actually an American creation. It rose in popularity during the mid-20th century, particularly for its affordable price and delectable taste that was a favorite of families across the United States.

Serving the A&P CopyCat Spanish Bar Cake is a delightful trip down memory lane for those who remember it, and a tasty discovery for those who don't. Typically dense and moist, it makes a perfect dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a complementary side, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the spices in the cake. For a festive occasion, serve it with a side of candied nuts or warm apple compote to enhance its spiced flavor profile.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 1/2 cups applesauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup raisins

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners' sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.

3. Add in the applesauce, vegetable oil, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until well combined using an electric mixer or by hand.

4. Stir in the raisins until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

7. While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and then gradually mix in the confectioners' sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

8. Once the cake is completely cooled, cut cake in half and spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Stack the other half and spread more frosting on top.

9. Cut the cake into bars or squares and serve. Enjoy your homemade taste of nostalgia with this A&P CopyCat Spanish Bar Cake!

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