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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Indulge in the delightful experience of Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting—an easy-to-make dessert that is both moist and flavorful. Infused with freshly grated carrots and aromatic spices, these bars offer a perfect balance of sweetness and decadence. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, they make an irresistible treat for holidays, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home with family. The optional addition of nuts provides a delightful crunch, making each bite even more enjoyable. Whether paired with coffee or served on a dessert platter, these carrot cake bars are sure to impress everyone at your table.

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 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 bowl, beat eggs with brown and granulated sugars until smooth. Mix in oil, applesauce, and vanilla.
  4. Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture; fold in grated carrots and nuts if using.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  7. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
  8. Spread frosting over cooled bars, cut into squares, and serve.

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