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Cream cheese frosted carrot cake bars on a wooden table

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars

These moist and spiced carrot cake bars topped with creamy cream cheese frosting offer an irresistible treat that delights at any gathering or cozy afternoon snack.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour airy and soft for a tender crumb
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder helps the bars rise perfectly
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda provides extra lift to your cake
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt enhances all flavors harmoniously
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon hauntingly aromatic with warm spice
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg adds depth and hint of earthiness
  • 1 cup granulated sugar sweet and fine, for the right sweetness
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar rich and caramelized for added moisture
  • 1 cup vegetable oil provides richness and tenderness
  • 4 large eggs binds all ingredients together
  • 2 cups grated carrots adds a fresh and vibrant touch
  • 0.5 cup crushed pineapple drained to keep bars moist
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans adds delightful crunch

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened for lush frosting texture
  • 4 cups powdered sugar essential for creaminess
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract fragrant and comforting
  • 0.25 cup milk helps achieve perfect creamy consistency

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until well blended.
  • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
  • Fold in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts.
  • Pour batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting

  • Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy.
  • Once the bars are cooled, frost generously and cut into squares.

Notes

Grate carrots finely, measure ingredients accurately, and do not overmix. Allow bars to cool completely before frosting.
Keyword Baking, Carrot Cake Bars, Comfort Food, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe