Description

Indulge in the delight of Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, a scrumptious treat that harmonizes moist, spiced carrot cake with a rich, creamy frosting. Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet everyday dessert, these bars are not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to impress. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible addition to any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir just until combined. Fold in grated carrots and nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until fluffy.
Spread frosting over cooled cake bars, cut into squares, and serve.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture. Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender. Add your favorite nuts or fruits for extra flavor.