Description
These carrot cake bars are packed with flavor! Moist, spiced just right, and topped with creamy frosting, they’re a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for dessert or a festive gathering, this recipe is easy and delicious. Plus, no fancy tools are needed—just simple ingredients you already have. Save this Pin to make the best carrot cake bars your taste buds are craving!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step is crucial as a properly heated oven ensures that your carrot cake bars will bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the rest of your ingredients!
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This little detail will prevent your delicious bars from sticking to the pan, allowing for a smooth exit when it’s time to serve. Line the bottom with parchment paper for an extra layer of protection!
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is vital for ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout your batter, resulting in perfectly risen and flavorful bars. Take a moment to inhale the lovely aroma of cinnamon!
In another large bowl, mix together the sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth. The sugar will help create a lovely caramelization while baking, and the oil keeps your cake moist and tender. Once combined, stir in the grated carrots, vanilla, and nuts if you choose to include them. Feel free to add a handful of raisins for an extra texture!
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until they are just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake bars light and fluffy. A few lumps are perfectly fine – those little bits of flour will vanish as they bake!
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the corners. This ensures every bite will be just as delightful as the last. The anticipation of those delicious carrot cake bars starting to take shape is palpable!
Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and let your creation bake for about 30-35 minutes. The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While they bake, enjoy the incredible smell wafting through your kitchen!
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the carrot cake bars to cool completely in the pan. This is crucial for a perfect texture. Meanwhile, prepare your creamy frosting by beating the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Imagine how delicious it will taste atop those moist bars!
Once the cooled bars are set, evenly spread the luscious cream cheese frosting on top. Take your time with this step, ensuring each corner gets its fair share of rich, velvety frosting. Your dessert is almost ready to delight!
Now comes the best part! Slice the frosted bars into squares or rectangles, and plate them up for family and friends. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, and watch as everyone savors this delightful treat.
Notes
Cool Completely Before Frosting
Allow your carrot cake bars to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese frosting. This step prevents the frosting from melting and losing its delightful texture.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay delicious for several days and the flavors will continue to meld!
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your bars! Add crushed pineapple for extra sweetness, or toss in some coconut flakes for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Keywords: Carrot Cake Bars