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Cream Cheese Bars That Taste Like Perfect Carrot Cake


  • Author: lily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful bars that combine the classic flavors of traditional carrot cake, topped with a creamy frosting.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups grated carrots
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil and eggs until smooth.
  4. Add grated carrots and optional nuts to the wet mixture and stir until well combined.
  5. Gently combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients without overmixing.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
  9. Prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  10. Once cooled, frost the bars generously and cut into squares before serving.

Notes

These bars pair well with coffee or tea and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: carrot cake, dessert bars, cream cheese frosting