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
