Description
These moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Bars are topped with rich cream cheese frosting and a hint of warm spice. A perfect dessert for any gathering or special occasion!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Combine & Add Carrots:
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in grated carrots, nuts, and raisins (if using).
- Bake:
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
- Frost & Serve:
- Spread frosting over cooled carrot cake bars.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra moisture, add ¼ cup crushed pineapple (drained).
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Toast the nuts before adding for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
