Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to love these carrot cake bars! They have the same rich flavor and moist texture as traditional carrot cake but are much simpler to make and serve. The cream cheese frosting is indulgent yet light, perfectly complementing the spiced cake. With the optional addition of walnuts or pecans, these bars offer the perfect combination of sweetness and crunch. Plus, they’re made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
For the carrot cake bars: 1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup finely grated carrots
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting: 4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until creamy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Slice into squares or bars and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- For extra flavor and texture, add 1/4 cup of raisins or shredded coconut to the batter.
- If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts or pecans.
- For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- You can substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- If you like your frosting a little tangier, add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese frosting.
Storage/Reheating
Store the carrot cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply allow the bars to come to room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh experience.
FAQs
How can I make the frosting thicker?
To make the frosting thicker, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the bars a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Frost them just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I use a different type of nut in the bars?
Yes, feel free to use any nuts you like. Pecans, walnuts, or even almonds would be delicious in these bars.
Can I make these bars without the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can serve the carrot cake bars without frosting or use a different type of frosting like whipped cream cheese or even a simple glaze.
Are these bars gluten-free?
No, the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also gently press on the top—if it springs back, they are ready.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before spreading it on the bars.
How long will the frosting last?
The frosting will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Be sure to keep it sealed in an airtight container.
Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?
Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought cream cheese frosting works as a great substitute!
Can I add other spices to the batter?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other spices such as ginger or allspice to make the flavor more unique.
Conclusion
Carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting are a perfect treat for any occasion. They’re easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a delicious homemade dessert, these bars are a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself making these over and over again!
Print
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting! Moist, spiced cake topped with smooth, tangy frosting creates a mouthwatering treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these bars are sure to become your new favorite dessert. Whether you add nuts or enjoy them plain, these carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the carrot cake bars:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and optional nuts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, you can add raisins or shredded coconut to the batter.
- If you want a healthier twist, swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- Make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge, but let it come to room temperature before spreading on the bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
