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Carrot Cake Bars

These decadent carrot cake bars are a delightful treat, featuring a moist cake with shredded carrots and warm spices, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp ground ginger
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1.5 cups shredded carrots Freshly shredded or packaged
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for easier mixing
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs until fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Fold in the shredded carrots and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. While the bars cool, make the frosting by mixing the softened cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Serving
  1. Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting across the top, then cut into squares for serving.

Notes

Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. For an appealing presentation, arrange on a decorative platter or use individual plates. Can be paired with coffee or tea.