Go Back
–+ servings
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Irresistible Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Indulge in these delightful Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 2 cups grated carrots Provides moisture and sweetness; freshly grated is essential for texture; avoid pre-shredded.
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed Adds deep sweetness and moisture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Balances sweetness and enhances browning.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Keeps bars moist; can substitute with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
  • 4 large eggs Binds ingredients together and aids in leavening.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds delightful flavor depth.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base structure of the bars.
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Enhances the spiced profile.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger Adds a pleasant kick of spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Reacts with acidic components to promote rising.
  • 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Provides texture and nutty flavor; can be omitted for a nut-free option.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Base of frosting that creates a rich, creamy layer.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness to the frosting.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting, making it perfectly spreadable.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold grated carrots into the wet mixture until well incorporated.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
  5. Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts if using.
  6. Pour the batter into the baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
  8. Beat cream cheese and butter together until fluffy, then add powdered sugar until the frosting is thick and spreadable.
  9. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, slice into squares, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 2000IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Use freshly grated carrots for best texture. Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!