## Post
Time
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Bake Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
### Introduction
Ready to savor unforgettable flavors of a rich, moist carrot cake in an easier-to-eat form? Try these Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! These delicious bars deliver all the hearty goodness of a traditional carrot cake, with the added bonus of portability and ease.
### Why Make This Recipe
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Everyone loves dessert, and this twist on a classic carrot cake will have everyone delighted. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or want to make your afternoon snack special, these bars are your answer.
### How to Make Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
You don’t have to be an expert baker to bring this recipe to life. Uncomplicated with less cleaning and preparation, you’ll have time left over to sit back and enjoy!
### Ingredients :
– For the Carrot Cake Bars:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
### Directions :
Follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
3. Blend oil and brown sugar until smooth in a large bowl, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix it well.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture slowly until they combine.
5. Distribute grated carrots and nuts evenly in the mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes in a prepared pan or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Frost only when the cake is fully cooled.
To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Then, gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until you achieve a creamy mixture.
### How to Serve Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Cut into squares and serve. Each bar promises a delicious treat of sweet, moist cake complemented by smooth, rich cream cheese frosting. You can add a sprinkle of nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar for additional decoration.
### How to Store Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Store any leftovers in the fridge. If you’ve already cut the bars, put them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. They will stay fresh for up to five days.
### Tips to Make Decadent Carrot Cake Bars
1. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature.
2. Don’t over bake. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark.
3. Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
4. To grate the carrots, use the smallest holes on a box grater.
### Variation
You can add dried fruit such as raisins for extra sweetness. For a more tropical twist, mix in crushed pineapple or shredded coconut.
### FAQs
Q: Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Q: Can I make these cake bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake the day before, store it in the refrigerator overnight, and frost it the next day.
Q: Can these bars be frozen?
A: Yes, you can freeze the frosted or unfrosted bars for up to three months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them in a sealed container.
Now go on, relish the creamy, dreamy Decadent Carrot Cake Bars. After all, you deserve a slice of heaven!