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Easy Carrot Cake Bars

Moist and flavorful carrot cake bars topped with a creamy frosting, perfect for snacks or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • ⅔ cup melted butter Makes the bars rich.
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla Enhances flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients.
  • 1 1/2 cups flour All-purpose flour works best.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the bars rise.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon For warm spice flavor.
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup carrots, shredded For moisture and flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional, add for texture.
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for topping To sprinkle before serving.
  • 1/2 cup coconut, shredded Optional for added flavor.
  • 1/3 cup milk For moisture.
  • 1/2 cup raisins Optional for sweetness.
For the Icing
  • 4 oz cream cheese For a rich frosting.
  • 1/4 cup butter Must be softened.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons milk To adjust frosting consistency.
  • 2 cups icing or powdered sugar Add more if needed for thickness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line the 8 x 8 pan with parchment paper and coat with nonstick spray.
  3. In a large bowl, beat together melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Fold in shredded carrots, walnuts, raisins, and stir in milk until well combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Icing and Serving
  1. Make icing by beating together cream cheese, butter, vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk until thick and fluffy.
  2. Spread icing over cooled carrot cake bars and sprinkle with additional walnuts or pecans.
  3. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Notes

For serving, top each bar with a mint leaf or walnut half. They can be heated slightly in the microwave for a warm treat. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.