Description

These Carrot Cake Bars are everything you love about classic carrot cake but in a portable, easy-to-make bar form! With warm spices, finely grated carrots, and an optional nutty crunch, these moist bars are topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for dessert, snacks, or even a special treat for brunch, these bars come together quickly and are guaranteed to delight. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!

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

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well. Fold in grated carrots and nuts if desired.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in the pan.
7. For frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
8. Once bars are cool, spread cream cheese frosting on top. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips and Conclusion

For extra flavor and texture, try adding 1/4 cup of raisins or shredded coconut to the batter.

To make these bars even more indulgent, sprinkle the frosting with additional chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon.

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to holiday celebrations. Their rich flavor and creamy frosting will make them an instant favorite. Try them today and share the joy of this delicious treat!