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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars

These Decadent Carrot Cake Bars are moist and tender, packed with spiced goodness and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups grated carrots (about 4 large carrots) Ensure carrots are freshly grated for maximum moisture.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar White sugar adds sweetness.
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar For a deeper flavor.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Can substitute with another neutral oil.
  • 4 large eggs Room temperature eggs work best.
  • 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract Pure vanilla is recommended.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Ensures proper rise.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Enhances spiciness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained Adds moisture and sweetness.
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) Can be omitted for nut-free.
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (optional) Enhances texture and flavor.
For the Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese Softened for easy mixing.
  • 0.5 cup butter Softened for easy blending.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sifted for smooth texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a rectangular baking pan (about 9x13 inches).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, combine the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, chopped walnuts, and shredded coconut, if desired.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting
  1. While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
  2. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled carrot cake bars.
Serving
  1. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. These bars freeze well for up to three months.