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Carrot cake has long been a beloved dessert, cherished for its moist texture and unique flavor profile that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. The combination of grated carrots, warm spices, and a rich cream cheese frosting creates a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. As a dessert that evokes nostalgia, carrot cake has earned its place at birthdays, holidays, and gatherings, capturing hearts with its delightful taste and vibrant color.

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the delightful world of Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! These easy-to-make treats maintain the classic flavors of traditional carrot cake but come in a convenient bar form, perfect for any occasion. With fresh grated carrots, warm spices, and a luscious cream cheese topping, they’re sure to be a hit at parties or just a cozy night in. Discover the joy of baking and enjoy these sweet, moist bars that are as nutritious as they are delicious!
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Ingredients
  

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

2 cups finely grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup almond flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1/2 cup raisins (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

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Prepare the Carrots: Peel and finely grate the carrots. Set aside to drain any excess moisture.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

            Fold in Carrots and Add-ins: Gently fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the chopped nuts and raisins until evenly dispersed.

              Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined and creamy.

                    Frost the Bars: Once the carrot bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.

                      Serve: Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious, moist carrot cake bars with a rich cream cheese frosting!

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 16 bars