Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent? These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are everything you love about carrot cake, but in the perfect, easy-to-eat bar form. Imagine a soft, moist cake with just the right amount of spice, loaded with shredded carrots, and topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. They’re the kind of dessert that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!)—trust me, you’re going to love these!

Why You’ll Love Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something about carrot cake that just feels like a warm hug. The soft texture, the balance of spices, and that heavenly frosting—it’s pure comfort food.

Easy to Make

No complicated layers or frosting techniques here—just simple, straightforward steps that make for a stress-free baking experience.

The Perfect Balance

These bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, with a rich, creamy frosting that complements the flavor of the cake beautifully.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just because, these carrot cake bars are always a hit!

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake, giving it that perfect texture.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise to that soft, moist perfection.
• Baking Soda: Adds a little extra fluffiness to the cake.
• Ground Cinnamon: For that signature warm, comforting spice.
• Ground Nutmeg: A subtle hint of spice to complement the cinnamon.
• Salt: To balance out the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Eggs: These bring structure and richness to the bars.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds the sweetness to the cake.
• Brown Sugar: For a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: For a little boost of flavor.
• Shredded Carrots: The star ingredient! Fresh, sweet, and full of moisture.
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): For some added crunch and texture (totally optional, but highly recommended!).

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: The base for that tangy, smooth frosting.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that perfect spreadable consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: To enhance the flavor of the frosting.
• Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness of the frosting.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Carrot Cake Bars:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Add the carrots: Fold in the shredded carrots (and walnuts, if using). The batter will be thick and chunky.
6. Bake the bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Cream the butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
3. Flavor the frosting: Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and mix until fully combined. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Bars:

1. Frost the bars: Once the carrot cake bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Serve and enjoy: Slice into squares and serve! These bars are the perfect treat for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 300
Fat per serving: 18g
Carbs per serving: 35g
Protein per serving: 3g
Sugar per serving: 25g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee:

These carrot cake bars pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them the ultimate afternoon treat.

For a Party:

These bars are ideal for a party, potluck, or bake sale—cut them into bite-sized squares for easy serving!

On Their Own:

Sometimes, these carrot cake bars are best enjoyed on their own as a delicious dessert after dinner or as a snack throughout the day.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead:

You can make the bars and the frosting ahead of time, and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Frost the bars just before serving.

Storage:

Store the frosted bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. They’ll stay moist and delicious!

Customize the Toppings:

You can add additional toppings to the frosting, like toasted coconut, extra chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.

Gluten-Free Version:

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these carrot cake bars without nuts?
A1: Yes, you can skip the nuts if you prefer or if you have nut allergies. They’ll still be just as delicious!

Q2: Can I freeze these carrot cake bars?
A2: Yes! You can freeze the un-frosted bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in an airtight container.

Q3: Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?
A3: Of course! If you’re short on time, store-bought cream cheese frosting works perfectly for this recipe.

Q4: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A4: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture might be slightly denser. You may want to try using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose for the best result.

Q5: Can I make this recipe in a different-sized pan?
A5: Yes, you can make these bars in a smaller pan, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them and do the toothpick test to ensure they’re fully baked.

Q6: How do I know when the carrot cake bars are done baking?
A6: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re done!

Q7: How do I store leftover frosting?
A7: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q8: Can I add pineapple to these bars?
A8: Absolutely! Adding finely chopped pineapple to the batter can add extra moisture and a burst of sweetness.

Q9: Can I use almond flour instead of regular flour?
A9: Almond flour can work, but it will change the texture. You may need to adjust the quantity and add a binding agent like eggs to help with the structure.

Q10: Can I make these bars without eggs?
A10: Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or another egg substitute.

Conclusion

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a total crowd-pleaser that will make any occasion feel special. With the perfect combination of moist, spiced cake and a rich, tangy frosting, they’ll become your new go-to dessert. Whether you’re baking them for a party or just treating yourself, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them! Enjoy!

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