Description
These Carrot Cake Bars are moist and flavorful, packed with freshly grated carrots and warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Bars:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (300g) finely grated carrots
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup (100g) crushed pineapple, drained (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil; mix well.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Add Carrots and Optional Ingredients:
- Fold in the grated carrots.
- If using, also fold in the chopped nuts and drained crushed pineapple.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and reaches your desired consistency.
- Frost the Bars:
- Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated carrots rather than pre-shredded ones, as they provide more moisture.
- Adding crushed pineapple enhances the moisture and adds a subtle sweetness, but it’s optional.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.