Description

These decadent carrot cake bars are soft, moist, and packed with flavors from freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups grated carrots

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1/2 cup raisins (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

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the carrot cake bars to cool completely in the pan.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

These carrot cake bars are perfect for any occasion and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

To make them vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy substitutes for the frosting.

Customize with different add-ins like chopped pecans, shredded coconut, or pineapple for added flavor and moisture.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 310
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg