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Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Delightful Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a nostalgic treat, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 270

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free version.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Can substitute half with brown sugar.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Ensure it's gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger Can be omitted for less spice.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 0.75 cups vegetable oil Or use melted coconut oil.
  • 3 large eggs Can substitute with applesauce for a vegan version.
  • 2 cups shredded carrots Must be freshly grated.
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional and can be omitted for nut-free bars.
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar Can be adjusted for desired sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor profile.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil and eggs until light and fluffy, then combine with dry ingredients.
  4. Fold in the shredded carrots and chopped nuts until evenly distributed within the batter.
  5. Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
  7. For the frosting, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  8. Spread the cream cheese frosting on top of the cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure eggs are at room temperature and avoid overmixing for tender texture. Freshly grated carrots yield the best flavor and moisture.

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