Carrot Cake Bars

why make this recipe

Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the moistness of traditional carrot cake with the convenience of bars. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a tasty snack, these bars are sure to please everyone. The combination of carrots, rich spices, and a creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some veggies and add a touch of sweetness to your day!

how to make Carrot Cake Bars

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the grated carrots, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Spread half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl it into the batter. Pour the remaining carrot cake batter over the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.

how to serve Carrot Cake Bars

Once your Carrot Cake Bars are cool, cut them into squares and serve them on a nice platter. They are great as a dessert or snack. You can enjoy them plain or sprinkle some extra powdered sugar on top for a nice touch. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying treat.

how to store Carrot Cake Bars

To keep your Carrot Cake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

tips to make Carrot Cake Bars

• Make sure to grate the carrots finely for better texture in the bars.
• Don’t skip the cream cheese frosting, as it adds a delicious flavor that complements the spices in the cake.
• For a fun twist, you can add nuts or raisins to the batter before baking.
• Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time to ensure the bars don’t overbake.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more complex flavor. For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar. You can also try adding shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought grated carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought grated carrots. Just make sure they are finely grated for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce to make it egg-free. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.

How can I tell if the Carrot Cake Bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If there’s wet batter, bake them for a few more minutes and check again.

Carrot Cake Bars

Delicious and moist Carrot Cake Bars that combine the traditional flavors of carrot cake with the convenience of bars, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups grated carrots Make sure to grate finely.
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs Can be replaced with applesauce or flaxseed meal for an egg-free version.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Important for the frosting.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the grated carrots, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the carrot mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Baking

1. Spread half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl it into the batter. Pour the remaining carrot cake batter over the top.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.

Notes

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. For best results, grate the carrots finely and do not skip the cream cheese frosting.