Description

These easy carrot cake bars are the perfect blend of moist, flavorful cake topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting. They are simple to make, yet indulgent and versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated carrots

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup vegetable oil

4 oz cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set it aside.
In a large bowl, mix the grated carrots, applesauce, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil until smooth and well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
While the bars cool, prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Once the bars are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top.
Cut into squares and serve! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

You can add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture.

For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.

Shredded coconut can be added to the batter for more flavor and texture.

Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 290
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg