Description
These decadent carrot cake bars are perfectly spiced, moist, and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. A delightful twist on the classic carrot cake.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3–4 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and oil until combined. Stir in grated carrots and walnuts.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- For frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
- Spread frosting over cooled bars. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of raisins or coconut flakes. The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.