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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Delicious carrot cake bars with a creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 9 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 cup light brown sugar adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cake
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour provides structure
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds cozy, warming spice
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg adds a hint of earthiness
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder ensures light, airy texture
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 large egg binds ingredients together
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract brings warmth and depth
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter creates a tender crumb
  • 1 cup freshly grated carrots adds moisture and nutrition
Cream Cheese Mixture
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened provides a creamy, tangy swirl
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar sweetens the cream cheese mixture
  • 1 large egg yolk adds richness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, kosher salt, and light brown sugar. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy! Add in the granulated sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing just until incorporated.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the freshly grated carrots.
Cream Cheese Preparation
  1. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy.
Baking
  1. Assemble: Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Carefully dollop the cream cheese mixture over the top, using a knife or a skewer to swirl gently without fully blending.
  2. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges start to brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy these delicious bars either warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best texture.