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Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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