If you have a soft spot for moist, warmly spiced treats topped with luscious frosting, then you are absolutely going to adore this Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These bars bring together tender carrot-infused cake richness and the velvety tang of cream cheese frosting in one delightful square, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. The combination of spices, fresh grated carrots, and optional crunchy nuts makes this recipe a cozy crowd-pleaser that feels like a comforting hug in dessert form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses wonderfully simple ingredients that are pantry staples for many. Each element plays a key role, from the fluffy texture created by the baking powder and soda, to the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the natural sweetness contributed by the carrots and sugars.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure that holds everything together for a tender crumb.
- Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents ensure your bars rise beautifully and stay light.
- Ground cinnamon & nutmeg: Classic spices that give the carrot cake its signature warm, inviting flavor.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness in the cake.
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar: Brown sugar adds moistness and a subtle caramel note, while granulated sugar sweetens and lightens the texture.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture for richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bars tender and moist without overwhelming the flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet floral note to both the cake and frosting.
- Grated carrots: The star ingredient, providing natural moisture, sweetness, and an appealing orange hue.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the soft bars.
- Cream cheese and unsalted butter: Combined to make the creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the carrot cake base.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to luscious perfection.
How to Make Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This simple preparation ensures your bars will come out without sticking, maintaining their perfect edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This blend will infuse the bars with that unmistakable carrot cake spice. In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, well-combined mixture. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until no flour streaks remain—you want to be gentle to keep the batter tender. Lastly, fold in the grated carrots and optional nuts for texture and flavor bursts in every bite.
Step 3: Bake the Carrot Cake Bars
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. Let the bars cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial, as it prevents the frosting from melting when applied.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, make the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated for a silky finish. Stir in vanilla extract for that extra hint of sweetness that complements the tangy cream cheese perfectly.
Step 5: Frost & Serve
Once your carrot cake bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or butter knife. Cut into squares or bars—whatever size suits your craving. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon on top to elevate the presentation and add a bit of crunch. Your carrot cake delight is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To make your bars even more inviting, consider topping them off with finely chopped walnuts or pecans, which add texture and an eye-catching finish. A light dusting of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg sprinkled on top gives a lovely aromatic touch that enhances the warm spices in the bars.
Side Dishes
These carrot cake bars are scrumptious on their own but pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a brunch twist, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich cream cheese frosting.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the carrot cake bars on a rustic wooden platter with edible flowers or carrot curls to impress guests. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized squares and serve with mini dessert forks, making them perfect finger foods at parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars can be stored covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cream cheese frosting keeps them moist, but chilling helps maintain their structure and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance or save extras, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before serving.
Reheating
Since these bars are best enjoyed cool, especially because of the frosting, avoid microwaving. Instead, let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before digging in—this returns the flavor to its fullest without melting the cream cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts in this Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts and pecans are traditional, but you can swap in almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a unique twist. Just make sure to chop them finely for even distribution.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture will be just as tender, provided the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to help with structure.
Can I prepare the frosting ahead of time?
You can make the cream cheese frosting a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before frosting the bars, allow the frosting to soften slightly at room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its creamy texture.
How many servings does this Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe yield?
This recipe typically yields 12 servings, depending on how large you cut the bars. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or just indulging over a few days.
Can I add shredded coconut or raisins to the batter?
Definitely! Both shredded coconut and raisins are fantastic additions to carrot cake bars and will add extra chew and flavor. Toss them in when folding in the carrots for even distribution.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a joyful mix of everything you love about classic carrot cake, but in a fun, easy-to-share bar form. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes an instant favorite, whether you’re treating yourself after a busy day or bringing a little sweetness to friends and family. Give it a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients and warm spices come to life in every bite.
Print
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are an easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. With grated carrots and optional nuts baked into a spiced batter, topped with a rich and creamy frosting, these bars combine the classic taste of carrot cake with the convenience of bar form.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
- Bake the Carrot Cake Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Frost & Serve: Once the carrot cake bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares or bars and serve. Optionally garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
- Make sure the carrot cake bars are fully cooled before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch but can be omitted or substituted for other nuts or dried fruit.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For easier cutting, chill the frosted bars for 30 minutes before slicing.
