Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Guide

If you’re a fan of moist, spiced desserts that melt in your mouth, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. These bars combine the rich flavors of freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a hint of tropical pineapple, all topped off with a creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or simply need a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, these carrot cake bars will surely impress.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. From ingredient details to step-by-step instructions, you’ll be creating this delightful dessert in no time. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Before we get started, let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need to create these moist and delicious carrot cake bars. The recipe is easy to follow, and most of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry!

Cake Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups grated carrots

• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the recipe instructions!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or non-stick spray. This will make it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The combination of these dry ingredients is what gives the carrot cake its signature spiced flavor. Once everything is mixed, set the bowl aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 minutes on medium speed. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you go.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once the butter and sugar are fully creamed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After all the eggs have been incorporated, add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth. This will help to bind all of the wet ingredients together.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cake to be dense. The batter should be thick and well combined.

Step 6: Add Carrots, Pineapple, and Walnuts

Next, fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using). These ingredients not only provide moisture but also add texture and flavor to the cake. Once everything is evenly distributed, your batter is ready for the oven.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking the cake around 30 minutes. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake is cooling, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat the frosting. Once everything is well combined, the frosting should be light, fluffy, and spreadable.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using a spatula. Be sure to cover the entire surface, making sure to spread it evenly. The cream cheese frosting is the star of the show, so don’t be shy with the amount you use!

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Now that your cake is frosted, it’s time to slice it into bars. This recipe makes about 24 bars, depending on how big or small you want them to be. These carrot cake bars are the perfect balance of sweet and spiced, with a creamy, tangy frosting that enhances every bite.

Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated carrots and well-drained pineapple will give your carrot cake bars the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned carrots or pre-grated carrots, as they tend to be drier.

• Chill the frosting: If you find that the cream cheese frosting is too soft to spread, chill it for 10-15 minutes before applying it to the cake. This will make it easier to work with.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cake bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Store properly: Store the frosted carrot cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information

While these carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting are undoubtedly delicious, it’s important to keep in mind the nutritional content. On average, one bar contains:

• Calories: 250

• Fat: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Protein: 3g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 20g

Enjoy these in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and you’ll have the perfect treat without overindulging.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved making Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, then you’ll surely enjoy these other delicious, equally tempting treats:

• No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Truffles: These citrusy, creamy truffles are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Perfect for those who love the combination of tangy and sweet!

• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Drizzled with Chocolate: A simple yet indulgent dessert, these donuts are perfect for breakfast or a snack. The cinnamon-sugar coating and chocolate drizzle make them irresistible.

• Maple Bacon Pancake Bites: A unique and savory option for those who enjoy the sweet and salty flavor combination. These pancake bites with bacon and maple syrup are sure to be a hit.

FAQs about Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

How long can you keep carrot cake with cream cheese frosting?

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cold storage helps maintain the moisture and freshness of both the cake and the frosting. Be sure to let the cake cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming inside the container. If you’re planning to keep the cake longer, you can freeze the individual bars. Simply wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The carrot cake bars will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the bars to thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.

Why is my carrot cake frosting runny?

A runny cream cheese frosting can be caused by a few different factors. If the frosting is too thin, it could be due to the cream cheese or butter being overly softened. When either of these ingredients becomes too soft, they can release excess moisture, causing the frosting to be runny. To fix this, you can try chilling the frosting for 10-15 minutes to firm it up. Another reason could be adding too much powdered sugar too quickly, which can make it harder for the frosting to come together properly. If you find that your frosting is too runny, you can gradually add more powdered sugar while mixing to thicken it up. However, be sure to avoid over-mixing the frosting, as this can result in a less desirable texture.

How many calories in carrot cake with cream cheese frosting?

Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is undeniably delicious, but it’s also important to be mindful of the calorie content. On average, one bar of carrot cake with cream cheese frosting contains about 250 calories. This number can vary slightly depending on the size of the slices and the exact proportions of ingredients used. The calories primarily come from the butter, sugars, and cream cheese, which are key components of both the cake and frosting. While carrot cake bars can be enjoyed as a treat, it’s always a good idea to keep portion sizes in mind to ensure you’re indulging without overdoing it. For a more accurate calorie count, you can use a nutritional calculator based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Can you cover a cake with cream cheese frosting?

Yes, you can absolutely cover a cake with cream cheese frosting, and it’s a popular choice for carrot cakes, red velvet cakes, and other spiced cakes. Cream cheese frosting has a rich and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly. When covering a cake with cream cheese frosting, make sure the cake has cooled completely to room temperature. If the cake is still warm, the frosting may melt and become runny. It’s best to apply the frosting in layers, using a spatula to spread it evenly over the surface of the cake. If you’re frosting a layered cake, apply a thin crumb coat first to lock in any loose crumbs, then finish with a generous layer of frosting for a smooth, creamy finish. If you’re worried about the frosting getting too soft, refrigerating the cake for 15-20 minutes after frosting it can help it set up nicely.

Final Thoughts on Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a classic dessert that combines the best elements of carrot cake—spices, moistness, and flavor—with a creamy, luscious frosting. They are the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, you can enjoy a homemade, bakery-quality treat in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create these delicious carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting. Once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on this irresistible dessert!

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Guide

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• Author: MixMealMagic
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, moist, and perfectly spiced with a smooth and tangy cream cheese topping. Packed with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and warm spices, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that’s ideal for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups grated carrots

• ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

6. Add Carrots and Pineapple: Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts if using.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

9. Make Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until creamy and fluffy.

10. Frost and Slice: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

• For extra flavor, toast the walnuts before mixing them into the batter.

• If you prefer a lighter texture, squeeze excess moisture from the crushed pineapple before adding.

• These bars taste even better the next day once the flavors have settled.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting, easy carrot cake bars, spiced carrot cake, dessert bars