Description
Deliciously sweet carrot cake bars topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely shredded carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (if using).
- In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded carrots and, if desired, chopped walnuts or raisins.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and fluffy.
- Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Serve with chai tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: carrot cake, dessert bars, cream cheese frosting, easy recipes