These Carrot Cake Bars are irresistibly moist and packed with flavorful ingredients like grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices. Topped with a rich Cream Cheese Frosting, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them with your afternoon coffee, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix to keep the bars tender. Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 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.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until creamy and fully combined. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
7. Frost the Cake
Once the carrot cake bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional chopped walnuts if desired.
8. Cut and Serve
Cut the cake into bars and enjoy! These decadent bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days—if they last that long!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Servings: 12 bars
These Carrot Cake Bars are the ultimate indulgence, with their rich, moist texture and velvety cream cheese topping. Perfect for dessert or a midday treat, they’re sure to become a family favorite! 🥄
