Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delicious and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These moist and flavorful bars are packed with grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply enjoying them as a treat, these carrot cake bars are sure to be a hit.
Table of Contents
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a rich, decadent dessert that’s easy to make, these Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect choice. With their moist texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting, these bars are a delightful twist on classic carrot cake. They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
The combination of grated carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting makes these bars truly irresistible. Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea, and they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrot Cake Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Frost the Carrot Cake Bars
- Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Grated Carrots: Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and moisture. Pre-packaged shredded carrots may be too dry.
- Nuts: Walnuts add a nice crunch, but you can omit them if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Cooling: Make sure the bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variations
- Pineapple Addition: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter for extra moisture and flavor.
- Raisin Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Spiced Frosting: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese frosting for a warm, spiced flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the bars a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover carrot cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I Freeze These Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars before or after frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
4. Can I Use a Different Pan Size?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as they may need a few extra minutes to bake through.
Serving Suggestions
- Coffee or Tea: Serve these carrot cake bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent dessert.
- Chopped Nuts: Garnish with extra chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their moist, spiced carrot cake base and rich cream cheese frosting, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting taste of carrot cake in a convenient bar form!
