Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These decadent carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting take me back to springtime baking sessions with my mom, where the kitchen was filled with the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon and nutmeg. This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic carrot cake, making it perfect for any occasion. Try them out and share the joy of homemade goodness!

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake Bars

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 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, melted
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (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
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the chopped nuts and raisins.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
4. Make Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Frost and Serve: Once the bars are completely cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into bars and enjoy your decadent carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 16-20 bars

Notes

• For added texture and flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon on top of the frosting.
• Ensure the bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Conclusion

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting bring a touch of homemade warmth and indulgence to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy treat, these bars are sure to delight. Enjoy the sweet memories and flavors with every bite!

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