Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Gradually add almond flour (or oat flour), baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Fold in grated carrots and optional nuts.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Let the bars cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before lifting out and slicing.

Serve warm or chilled, optionally drizzled with cream cheese glaze or sprinkled with nuts.