Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Bars are topped with rich cream cheese frosting, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour light and fluffy
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder to add lift
- 1 teaspoon baking soda for that perfect rise
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon warm, cozy flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg spicy and aromatic
- 0.25 teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness
- 4 large eggs fresh and rich
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar pure sweetness
- 1 cup vegetable oil for a moist texture
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract a hint of warmth
- 2 cups grated carrots about 3 medium carrots, sweet and healthy
- 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional, for crunch
- 0.5 cup raisins optional, for added sweetness
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese rich and creamy
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter for the frosting
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for frosting, inviting aroma
- 3 cups powdered sugar to sweeten and thicken
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly pale.
- Gradually add in the vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
- In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Add the remaining vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Consider adding a pinch of cloves or ginger for extra spice. You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer taste.