Print

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These bars combine the rich flavors of traditional carrot cake into a convenient, easy-to-make form. Packed with freshly grated carrots and warm spices, and finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bars:

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 3 cups (340g) grated carrots (about 4 large carrots)
  • 1 cup (120g) chopped toasted walnuts (optional)
  • 1 cup (227g) crushed pineapple, drained (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounces (227g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Batter:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cloves.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
    • Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and crushed pineapple, if using.
  • Bake:

    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
    • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  • Make the Frosting:

    • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
    • Add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  • Assemble:

    • Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
    • For a decorative touch, sprinkle additional chopped walnuts on top, if desired.
    • Cut into bars of your preferred size and serve.

Notes

  • For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut or raisins into the batter.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.