Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. Packed with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these bars are topped with a creamy layer of cream cheese frosting. The addition of walnuts offers a satisfying crunch, but they can be left out for a nut-free version. This recipe is easy to make and delivers all the deliciousness of classic carrot cake in a convenient bar form.
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.
Summary
These Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect balance of moistness, sweetness, and spice. Grated carrots and crushed pineapple add moisture and flavor to the bars, while warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger enhance the taste. The creamy cream cheese frosting provides a rich finishing touch, making these bars a delightful dessert option for gatherings, holidays, or everyday indulgence. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.