Introduction

These Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting offer all the warm, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake in a convenient, easy-to-slice form. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet snack, they combine moist carrot goodness with a rich, creamy frosting.

The image shows several square pieces of carrot cake with two distinct layers. The bottom layer is a moist, textured carrot cake with visible bits of carrot and darker spots representing nuts. The top layer is a creamy, smooth white frosting spread evenly over the cake, covered with small, chopped pieces of walnuts scattered on top. The cake pieces are arranged closely on a white marbled surface, with some walnut pieces fallen beside them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups grated carrots
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture until they are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 8: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
Grate the carrots finely to ensure they bake evenly and blend well into the batter.
Add a handful of raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture and sweetness.
If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Storage

Store the carrot cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. They can also be frozen without frosting for up to 3 months; thaw completely and frost before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a square slice of carrot cake resting on a white marbled surface, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is a moist, textured carrot cake with visible small bits of carrot and nuts, colored in rich brownish-orange tones, and the top layer is a thick, smooth white cream cheese frosting that gently drips down the sides. On top of the frosting, there are chopped walnuts scattered evenly, adding a crunchy texture and warm brown color contrast. In the background, blurred pieces of the same carrot cake are visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or canned carrots?

Fresh grated carrots are best for texture and flavor. Avoid canned carrots, as they tend to be too soft and watery for this recipe.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best results.