Get ready to fall head over heels for Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting – a truly irresistible dessert that’s as creamy as it is comforting! If you’re searching for a sweet treat that’s loaded with flavor, easy to make, and sure to delight everyone at the table, these bars are destined to become your new favorite. Why confine yourself to a traditional carrot cake when this handheld version offers all the deliciousness in a convenient, fuss-free form? Fun fact: Carrot cake as we know it evolved from medieval carrot puddings, where carrots sweetened treats before sugar was widely available. This version honors that tradition, but with a soft, chewy twist you’ll crave again and again. Compared to my classic Banana Bread Bars, these Carrot Cake Bars are even more festive – and every bit as simple to whip up. So put on your apron, grab those carrots, and let’s have some dessert magic!
What is Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Ever wondered why these yummy squares are called Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting? It’s as fun as it sounds—imagine all the cozy flavor of carrot cake, transformed into thick and chewy snackable bars, then generously topped with the tangiest, dreamiest cream cheese frosting. Bars or cake, why choose? And as wise folks always say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—or anyone’s, really, if you show up with a pan of these. The name suits this playful treat to a T, making it perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or whenever you simply can’t resist. Ready to satisfy that sweet tooth? Dive right in—you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This
Let’s talk about why Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting belong in your dessert rotation. First, the sheer moistness and spice of the bars—thanks to loads of freshly grated carrots, warm cinnamon, and hints of nutmeg and ginger—are unforgettable. Unlike store-bought pastries, these homemade bars let you control every ingredient, saving you money and skipping those unnecessary additives. And oh, that velvety cream cheese frosting! It’s sweet, a little tangy, and generously thick, speckled with soft richness you just can’t buy in a tub. If you love my Apple Cinnamon Bars, you’ll adore this recipe’s flavor-packed festive twist. So what are you waiting for? Get baking and discover your new go-to dessert!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Craving something easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing? These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are simple to prepare and come together in under an hour. Lightly spiced, wonderfully moist, and slathered in a luscious frosting, they’re ideal for any occasion. All you need is basic pantry ingredients and one bowl for each step, so cleanup is a breeze. Treat yourself to this cozy classic, perfect for beginner and experienced bakers alike!
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This helps your bars bake evenly and prevents sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This ensures your dry ingredients are well distributed.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This creates a smooth, cohesive batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix, or your bars may turn out dense.
- Fold in the grated carrots, well-drained crushed pineapple, and walnuts (if using). The carrots and pineapple add moisture, flavor, and sweetness.
- Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars should be set and lightly golden at the edges.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Meanwhile, make the cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!
What to Serve With
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a crowd-pleasing dessert, but you can make them the star of the table by pairing them with a few tasty additions. Serve with a cup of hot chai tea or creamy cappuccino for an afternoon treat. For dessert platters, add slices of fresh fruit like pineapple or strawberries, which complement the carrot cake’s spice. Want to make it extra festive? Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. For brunches, these bars shine alongside savory egg bakes or a hearty frittata. However you serve them, these bars are bound to please.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- For the moistest bars, use freshly grated carrots—not pre-shredded—since they have more moisture and flavor.
- If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce for a similar effect.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; it helps the bars stay tender.
- Toasting the walnuts before folding them in can boost their nutty flavor.
- Let the bars cool completely before frosting, or the frosting may melt right off.
- To cut perfect squares, chill the frosted bars briefly in the fridge for easier slicing.
- Feel free to skip the nuts for a nut-free version or swap with pecans for a twist.
- For a citrusy boost, add a bit of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Carrot Cake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cream cheese frosting will stay thick and delicious, and the bars won’t dry out. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and let come to room temperature before serving; you can reheat them briefly in the microwave (without frosting) for a just-baked taste. If making ahead, keep the frosting and bars separate until ready to serve for best results.
FAQs
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for best texture.
Can I use oil instead of butter in the cake?
You can substitute the 1/2 cup butter in the cake batter with 1/2 cup neutral oil for an equally moist result.
Is it possible to use pre-shredded carrots?
While pre-shredded carrots work in a pinch, freshly grated carrots give the bars the best texture and moisture.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the bars and store, unfrosted, for up to two days covered at room temperature. Frost just before serving.
Can I skip the pineapple or nuts?
Yes, the recipe works without pineapple or nuts. You can replace pineapple with applesauce, or omit it altogether if preferred.
Conclusion
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate treat when you crave the flavors of classic carrot cake in a fun, snackable form. With their cozy spices, moist crumb, and decadent blanket of cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for sharing—or savoring solo. These bars are surprisingly simple to make, use everyday ingredients, and store beautifully, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet reward after a long day. Give this recipe a try and see why so many readers can’t get enough. Happy baking, and don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on the blog!
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Pan
- Whisk
- Spatula
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground ginger
Wet Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup Brown sugar
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 cups Grated carrots
- 0.5 cup Crushed pineapple, drained
- 0.5 cup Chopped walnuts (optional) Can be omitted for nut-free version.
Frosting
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 0.25 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups Powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars, cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!