Raisin Walnut Spice Bars

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 2 1/4 cups packed golden brown sugar
• 1/3 cup fancy molasses
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tsp water

Directions

1. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. Using medium speed of an electric mixer, beat together butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in molasses and 3 eggs until blended. Stir in flour mixture just until combined. Stir in raisins and walnuts. Cover and refrigerate dough for 1 hour.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Divide dough into 6 pieces. On a lightly floured surface, pat each piece into a strip 14 inches long and 1 1/2 inches wide. Place 3 strips on each prepared pan, leaving a 2 inch space between strips. Combine beaten egg and water. Brush tops of strips with beaten egg mixture.
4. Bake for 25 - 30 minutes or until strips are firm and lightly browned at edges. Let strips stand for 10 minutes on pans. Transfer strips to a cutting board and cut each strip diagonally into 12 bars. Cool bars on racks. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 5 days. May be frozen.