Post Title: Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting: Your New Favorite Treat
Time: Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 16 bars
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Introduction
Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious and moist Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting. This dessert not only tastes fantastic but also brings a festive touch to any family gathering or celebration with its autumn flavors.
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Why Make This Recipe
What sets these Carrot Bars apart is the amazing blend of earthy carrot flavors and the sweet and smooth maple frosting. If you’re looking to try new dessert recipes or wish to give a charming twist to your usual carrot cake, this recipe is your go-to choice.
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How to Make Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
First, prepare the ingredients for both the bars and the frosting. Once prepped, follow the recipe steps meticulously to ensure your Carrot Bars and Maple Frosting turn out perfect.
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Ingredients
For Carrot Bars:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For Maple Frosting:
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
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Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Combine wet ingredients in a large bowl. Blend sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined. Next, fold in grated carrots and optional walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean in the center.
6. Allow bars to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. During this time, prepare the maple frosting. Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Once cooled, spread the maple frosting over the baked carrot bars. Slice into 16 pieces and serve.
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How to Serve Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
These Carrot Bars are best paired with hot beverages like tea or coffee, making them an ideal dessert or afternoon snack. Make sure to serve them at room temperature for best taste.
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How to Store Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
The bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Prior to serving, leave them out to achieve room temperature.
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Tips to Make Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
– Ensure that the grated carrots are finely shredded for a soft texture.
– Addition of walnuts provides a great crunch. Pecans can also be used as substitute.
– For a less sweet version, reduce sugar quantity in the frosting.
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Variations
For a gluten-free version of these bars, substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free baking flour.
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FAQs
1. Can other types of flour be used for this recipe?
– Yes, almond flour or oat flour are workable substitutes.
2. How long can these bars last in the refrigerator?
– Ideally, they should be consumed within a week if refrigerated.
3. Can honey be used instead of maple syrup?
– Yes, you can use honey though it will slightly alter the flavor of the frosting.
So go ahead, try this recipe to feast on these delicious Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting!