Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Carrot Cake Bars, a perfect treat that brings joy to any occasion! These moist and chewy bars are packed with shredded carrots, warm spices, and crunchy pecans, all topped with a creamy frosting. They blend the best aspects of traditional carrot cake and buttery blondies, making them an instant favorite among friends and family. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a gathering, these bars are simple to whip up and ready to impress. Plus, they store well, allowing you to enjoy them whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 1â…“ 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
- ½ cup (65g) finely chopped toasted pecans
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold into the wet mixture.
- Gently incorporate shredded carrots and chopped pecans into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for about 23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until combined.
- Once cooled, frost the bars with cream cheese frosting and garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (56g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg