If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These bars bring together the moist, tender texture of classic carrot cake with the creamy, tangy richness of cream cheese frosting—all in a convenient bar form perfect for sharing or packing up for a sweet treat anytime. With the perfect blend of spices, grated carrots, and a touch of pineapple for extra moisture and zing, these bars are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of carrot cake without the fuss of slicing a layered cake. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to dessert for every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s adding flavor, texture, or that irresistibly tender crumb you crave. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives our bars structure and balance.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bars rise just right, keeping them tender and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the pineapple’s acidity for perfect lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the batter.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice note carrot cake is known for.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle, nutty spice that deepens the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: For a hint of zing and warmth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a soft texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a bit of caramel depth to the bars.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and add to the fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups grated carrots: The star ingredient that lends natural sweetness and color.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Adds moisture and a tropical twist.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For delightful crunch and nuttiness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for our frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings the frosting together with a lovely aroma.
How to Make Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Doing this upfront blends all your spices evenly, so each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming step is crucial for a tender crumb and a slight chew in your bars.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time to keep the batter smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract for that classic warm sweetness that ties everything together.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients, Fold in Add-ins
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—overmixing can make your bars tough. Then gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts if you’re using them. They add texture and bursts of flavor that make these bars so special.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let your bars cool completely on a wire rack before frosting—patience here pays off with a perfect, clean spread.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is luscious and spreadable.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Once frosted, cut them into 16 squares for sharing or savoring bit by bit. These bars are best enjoyed with a big smile and a hot cup of tea or coffee!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For a pretty presentation, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top. If you want a touch of freshness, a tiny dollop of whipped cream with a maraschino cherry can elevate your serving effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and comforting by pairing these carrot cake bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruity compote. A bright orange or grapefruit salad could also cut through the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter with decorative picks for a party. You can also layer bars and frosting in clear cups for a fun parfait twist, making every bite a surprise of flavor and creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your carrot cake bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 5 days, and the cream cheese frosting actually tastes even better once chilled.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly or freeze the whole pan before frosting. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and frost just before serving.
Reheating
For a warm treat, let the bar thaw at room temperature and then pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just skip the frosting if you want it warmed too or add it after reheating for the best texture contrast.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure to check the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.
Is it necessary to use pineapple?
The pineapple adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps these bars super tender. If you don’t have any, you can omit it, but you might want to add a splash of applesauce or finely grated apple to keep the texture moist.
Can I omit the nuts?
Definitely! The walnuts add a lovely crunch, but if you have a nut allergy or just don’t like them, the bars will still be delicious without them.
How long do the bars need to cool before frosting?
It’s best to cool the bars completely, about an hour at room temperature or less time in the refrigerator, to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?
You can, but homemade frosting is super simple and tastes fresher and less sweet. If in a pinch, store-bought will work just fine.
Final Thoughts
Making this Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is like inviting a little warmth and joy into your kitchen. These bars are wonderfully easy to make but so full of comforting flavors that everyone will be asking for your secret. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or just a special treat for yourself, you truly can’t go wrong with these delicious bars. Go ahead, give them a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Bars topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these bars combine grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and optional walnuts for a textured, sweet, and tangy treat. Baked to perfection in a 9×13-inch pan, they make an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This ensures all the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor and proper rise.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air contributing to a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract for added aroma and sweetness.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing which can cause toughness. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and optional chopped walnuts for texture and moisture.
- Bake the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack to set the structure and prepare for frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the completely cooled carrot cake bars to avoid melting or sliding of the frosting.
- Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the frosted cake into 16 equal squares. Serve immediately or store covered at room temperature or refrigerated for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Make sure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts.
- If you want extra moisture, ensure to drain the pineapple well to avoid soggy bars.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
