Carrot cake, with its moist texture and sweet, spiced flavor, is a beloved dessert for many. These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting bring all the traditional elements of a classic carrot cake but in a more casual, easy-to-serve form.
Perfect for gatherings, these bars are not only simple to make but also irresistibly delicious, with a rich frosting that perfectly complements the spiced cake base.
A Bite-Sized Twist on a Classic
Whether you’re looking for a treat to share at a potluck, a comforting snack for a cozy night in, or a delightful dessert for a casual dinner party, these carrot cake bars are sure to please. The addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch, though they can be omitted for a nut-free option. Here’s how to make these crowd-pleasing treats.
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients: For the Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure that the bars do not stick and are easy to remove after baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture provides the dry ingredients that will help structure the bars while adding flavor.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with both brown sugar and granulated sugar until well blended. The sugars not only sweeten the bars but also contribute to their moist texture.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, combining until smooth. Eggs bind the mixture and help the bars rise during baking.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bars tough.
- Fold in the grated carrots and optionally, the walnuts. The carrots add moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts provide a nice textural contrast.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This timing ensures that the bars are cooked through but remain moist.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to prevent them from breaking when frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese with the butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Once the bars are cool, spread the frosting over the top. The frosting adds a creamy, sweet layer that perfectly complements the spiced cake.
- Cut the frosted cake into squares and serve. These sizes make the bars easy to distribute and enjoy.
