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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful dessert bars are soft, moist, and spiced to perfection, making them an ideal treat for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a joyous family gathering. The luscious cream cheese frosting elevates the flavor profile, adding a rich finish that pairs beautifully with the tender carrot cake base. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll find this recipe simple and satisfying. Enjoy these bars fresh or let them chill overnight for even deeper flavors that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat eggs with sugars until smooth; mix in oil, applesauce, and vanilla.
  4. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; add grated carrots and nuts if desired.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool completely before making the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.
  7. Frost the cooled bars and slice into squares to serve.

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