Introduction

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect blend of warm spices,
moist carrot-filled batter, and silky cream cheese icing. They offer all the classic
flavors of traditional carrot cake but in an easier bar form—ideal for potlucks,
holidays, or everyday sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Carrot Cake Bars

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 1/2 cup raisins, 1/4 cup shredded coconut

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Carrot Cake Bars

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots and any optional mix-ins.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 22–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat until light and fluffy.
3. Spread the frosting evenly on the cooled carrot cake bars.
4. Slice into squares and serve.

Description

These carrot cake bars are moist, tender, and gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
The fresh carrots add sweetness and moisture, while the creamy, tangy frosting completes
the perfect bite. Soft, flavorful, and easy to prepare, they make an excellent dessert
for any occasion.

Tips

• Finely grate the carrots for smoother texture and moisture.
• Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for extra spice.
• Do not overbake—this helps keep the bars soft and moist.
• Prepare the bars a day ahead to enhance flavor.
• Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 pan for larger gatherings.

Corrections (Common Mistakes & Fixes)

• Bars came out dry? They were likely overbaked or too much flour was added. Spoon and level your flour.
• Frosting too runny? Add more powdered sugar or chill for 15 minutes.
• Bars too dense? Check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
• Carrots sinking? Pat carrots dry before mixing them into the batter.

Enjoy

Cut into squares, serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the rich, moist
carrot cake flavor paired with creamy frosting in every delicious bite!