Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delectable treat that combine the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creaminess. The moist and tender carrot cake is enhanced with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the creamy, tangy frosting adds the ideal finishing touch. The chopped walnuts bring an extra layer of texture and flavor, making each bite a true delight.

1. Ingredients:

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before frosting.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars. Slice and serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes | Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal (per bar) | Servings: 16 bars