Description
These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are moist, spiced, and packed with flavor! Easier to make than a layered cake, they’re topped with a rich, creamy frosting that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a simple sweet treat!
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
3. Bake the Carrot Cake Bars:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Frost & Serve:
- Once the carrot cake bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.
- Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For an extra moist texture, add ¼ cup crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American