Creamy Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese
Indulge in these creamy carrot cake bars topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Equipment
- 1 9-inch square baking pan greased and lined with parchment paper
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing bowls various sizes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and lump-free.
Serving
- Cut the cooled carrot cake into bars and serve with a warm beverage or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, separating each layer with parchment paper.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to achieve the best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions: For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
How to Serve: Enjoy these bars chilled or at room temperature.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated for optimum freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Ingredient Substitutions: For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
How to Serve: Enjoy these bars chilled or at room temperature.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated for optimum freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.