Carrot Cake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious, these Carrot Cake Bars are just what you need. They combine the warm spices and sweetness of traditional carrot cake with the soft, chewy texture of a blondie. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

What makes these bars special is not just their delightful flavor but also how easy they are to whip up. You’ll love how quickly they come together and how satisfying they are once baked! Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can impress with these bars.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats—perfect for after-school snacks or dessert.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars store well, so you can bake them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of carrots, spices, and pecans creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Frosted Delight: The creamy cream cheese frosting takes these bars to the next level of indulgence!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather up some simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Carrot Cake Bars so irresistible. You might already have many of them in your kitchen!

For the Carrot Cake Bars

• ¾ cup (172g) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
• ½ cup (105g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1⅓ cup (170g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 scant teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots, loosely measured, not packed (see note)
• ½ cup (65g) finely chopped toasted pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 1½ cups (187g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• finely chopped toasted pecans (optional garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to personalize your Carrot Cake Bars:

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in half a cup of crushed pineapple for added moisture and sweetness.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free treat.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of cardamom or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful chocolate surprise!

How to Make Carrot Cake Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. This little step makes cleaning up so much easier!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth. Then add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is rich with flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. This step evenly distributes the spices throughout your batter for that delicious warm flavor we all love.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to over-mix; you want your bars to remain soft and chewy! Finally, fold in the shredded carrots and chopped pecans until just combined.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your bars cool down, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 7: Frost Your Bars

Once cooled completely, spread that luscious cream cheese frosting over your Carrot Cake Bars. If you like a little crunch on top, sprinkle with finely chopped toasted pecans as a garnish!

Now slice them up into squares or rectangles—whatever you prefer! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Carrot Cake Bars with friends or family!

Pro Tips for Making Carrot Cake Bars

These carrot cake bars are sure to impress, and with a few helpful tips, you can make them even better!

• Use fresh carrots – Freshly shredded carrots provide the best flavor and moisture. Pre-packaged or canned carrots may not give the same delightful texture.
• Don’t skip the spices – The combination of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting flavor profile. Adjusting these spices can also customize the taste to your preference.
• Cool before frosting – Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and helps create a beautiful presentation.
• Toast your pecans – Toasting nuts enhances their natural flavors, adding a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with the moist cake bars.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature will help achieve a smooth and creamy frosting that spreads easily.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars

Serving carrot cake bars is just as fun as making them! They can be enjoyed in several delightful ways that enhance their charm.

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans – Sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
• Coconut flakes – A light dusting of unsweetened coconut flakes brings a tropical twist and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh mint leaves – A few mint leaves can add a pop of color and hint of freshness to each serving.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the carrot cake bars, making for a delightful dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a light balance to the richness of the bars while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Yogurt Parfait – Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors of carrot cake.
• Herbal Tea – Pairing these bars with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for dessert time or an afternoon treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your carrot cake bars will be irresistibly tasty and beautifully presented. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These carrot cake bars are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeks. You can easily enjoy them throughout the week or share with friends and family!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled carrot cake bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and warm it for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making carrot cake bars that you might find helpful.

Can I use different nuts in my Carrot Cake Bars?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor and crunch, walnuts or even almonds can be used as alternatives. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to blend well into the batter.

How long do Carrot Cake Bars last?

When stored properly, carrot cake bars will last up to 3 days at room temperature and about a week in the refrigerator. If you freeze them, they can stay good for up to 3 months!

Can I make these Carrot Cake Bars without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or a chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed/chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping your bars moist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful carrot cake bars! They embody warmth and comfort in every bite, making them special for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a sweet treat after dinner or sharing them with loved ones, I’m confident they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy baking!