Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delicious and moist dessert option that combines classic carrot cake flavors in a convenient bar form. These bars are made with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The addition of chopped walnuts adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy cream cheese frosting completes the dessert with a rich and tangy layer.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for the base
- Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp, for leavening
- Baking soda: 1 tsp, for rising
- Salt: ½ tsp, to balance flavors
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp, for warm spice
- Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp, for added warmth
- Ground ginger: ½ tsp, for spice
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened, for moisture
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness
- Brown sugar: ½ cup, for a deeper sweetness
- Large eggs: 3, for structure
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Grated carrots: 2 cups, for flavor and texture
- Crushed pineapple: ½ cup, drained, for moisture
- Chopped walnuts (optional): ½ cup, for crunch
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened, for creaminess
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, softened, for richness in the frosting
- Powdered sugar: 2 cups, for sweetness in the frosting
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for flavor in the frosting
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Step 3:
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 6:
- Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts, if using.
- Step 7:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely.
- Step 8:
- For the frosting, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Step 9:
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Step 10:
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake bars.
- Step 11:
- Cut into squares and enjoy these decadent carrot cake bars with rich cream cheese frosting!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For best flavor, serve at room temperature.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure the grated carrots are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- Adjust the frosting consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Add a pinch of cardamom to the batter for a unique twist on flavor.
Why You’ll Love Decadent Carrot Cake Bars
These carrot cake bars are a delightful blend of moistness, sweetness, and spice, topped with a rich and creamy frosting. They’re perfect for any occasion, offering all the flavors of classic carrot cake in a convenient bar form.
How to Make Ahead and Store
The bars can be baked and frosted up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I substitute applesauce for the crushed pineapple?
Yes, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute for the crushed pineapple.
Can I make the frosting thicker?
Add more powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Yes, chopped pecans can be used as a substitute for walnuts.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, the bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.