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Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in cozy nostalgia with these moist carrot cake bars topped with creamy, tangy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Core Components
  • 2 cups freshly grated carrots The star ingredient providing moisture and sweetness
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure to the bars
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Balances sweetness
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar Adds depth with molasses flavor
  • 3 large eggs Provides structure and richness
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil or melted butter Oil adds moisture; butter adds richness
Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warm notes
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds aromatic flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger Provides spice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances sweetness
  • 1 cup optional add-ins (e.g., crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, raisins, chopped nuts) For added texture and flavor
Cream Cheese Frosting Essentials
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened) Base for frosting
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened) Adds creaminess
  • 3 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor

Method
 

Preparing the Batter
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
  2. In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  3. Gently fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture along with any optional add-ins.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir until just combined.
Baking the Bars
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating to prevent lumps.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Assembling and Serving
  1. Once the bars are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  2. Cut into squares and serve, optionally garnishing with chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.