Go Back
+ servings
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss

Enjoy these delightful Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for any occasion and customizable with mix-ins.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free option available.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Leavening agent.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Adds warm flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Enhances aroma.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Reduce by 1/4 cup for less sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds moisture.
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Substitute with applesauce for lighter version.
  • 3 Large Eggs Use room temperature.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor.
  • 3 cups Finely Shredded Carrots Use a food processor.
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips Optional mix-in.
  • 1 cup Mixed Dried Fruit Chopped pineapple and raisins recommended.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened.
  • 4 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt For topping.
  • 1/4 cup Candy Carrots Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • spatula
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil, whisking until light in color and consistency.
  4. Incorporate the large eggs one at a time into the wet mixture, whisking well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  6. Add the finely shredded carrots, chocolate chips, and mixed dried fruit. Fold gently until evenly distributed.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Make frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
  10. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars and garnish if desired.
  11. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares or rectangles and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!