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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in these moist, spiced carrot cake bars topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Then, fold in the grated carrots.
  5. Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to mix until well combined.
  3. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
Serving
  1. Cut into bars and serve to eager hands!

Notes

Use fresh, finely grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor. Don’t overmix to keep the bars light. Customize with additional spices if desired.