Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars
These carrot-scented bars are a crowd-pleasing treat with tender crumb and silky frosting, perfect for potlucks or cozy snacks.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
Produce & Mix-ins
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan; line with parchment for easier removal if desired.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Combining Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, mix the oil, eggs, and grated carrots until well blended.
Combining Mixtures
- Combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined; gently fold in the nuts if using.
Baking and Frosting
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the bars cool, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Spread frosting once the bars are completely cool. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months.