These Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their blend of shredded carrots, warm spices, and crunchy pecans, they’re sure to please everyone who tries them. The luscious cream cheese frosting adds a rich finish that makes these bars taste like a cross between classic carrot cake and a buttery blondie. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these bars are an irresistible choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and sweetness creates a rich flavor profile that is simply addicting.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these bars without any hassle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, these bars fit right in.
- Moist and Chewy Texture: The addition of shredded carrots ensures that every bite is soft and satisfying.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or extra frosting to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Carrot Cake Bars, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Whisk: A good whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in lighter texture.
- Baking pan: Using the correct size ensures even baking and proper thickness of your bars.
Ingredients
These carrot cake bars are packed with shredded carrots, warm spices, and pecans and topped with cream cheese frosting. They are soft, moist, and chewy and taste like a cross between carrot cake and a buttery blondie.
Ingredients:
– ¾ cup (172g) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
– ½ cup (107g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
– ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
– 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1⅓ cup (170g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
– 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 scant teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots, loosely measured, not packed (see note)
– ½ cup (65g) finely chopped toasted pecans
– 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter (softened)
– 1½ cups (187g) powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– finely chopped toasted pecans (optional garnish)
How to Make Carrot Cake Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, baking powder.
2. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
Step 4: Add Carrots and Pecans
Gently stir in the shredded carrots and finely chopped toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly:
1. Bake for about 23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Allow cooling completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese with softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
Once cooled:
1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars.
2. Optional: Top with finely chopped toasted pecans for extra crunch.
Now enjoy your delicious homemade Carrot Cake Bars!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars
Carrot cake bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
For Afternoon Tea
- Pair the carrot cake bars with a selection of herbal teas. The warm spices in the bars complement the soothing flavors of chamomile or ginger tea.
At Parties
- Cut the bars into smaller squares for easy serving. These bite-sized pieces make perfect finger foods for guests to enjoy while mingling.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm carrot cake bars topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream pairs perfectly with the moist texture of the bars.
As a Breakfast Option
- Enjoy a piece of carrot cake bar with your morning coffee. They provide a sweet and satisfying start to your day while adding a touch of indulgence.
How to Perfect Carrot Cake Bars
To achieve the best results when making carrot cake bars, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Carrots: Freshly shredded carrots yield more moisture and flavor than pre-packaged ones, enhancing the overall taste of the bars.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Stir until just combined for light and chewy results.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This ensures they’re baked perfectly.
- Let Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape and texture for better presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Carrot Cake Bars
Carrot cake bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and acidity that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of carrot cake bars.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits next to your carrot cake bar for a satisfying combination of textures.
- Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee pair beautifully with spiced desserts, providing an energizing lift alongside your treat.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy varieties like Brie, adds an elegant touch and complements the dessert’s sweetness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate drizzle on top can elevate your carrot cake bars, adding an extra layer of flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making carrot cake bars, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using too much flour: Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to dry bars. Always spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create tough bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold butter or cream cheese can prevent proper mixing. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Not checking doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can result in undercooked or overcooked bars. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Skipping the frosting: These carrot cake bars shine with cream cheese frosting. Don’t skip this step; it enhances flavor and adds moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store carrot cake bars in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Carrot Cake Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Carrot Cake Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these carrot cake bars gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it is designed for baking to achieve similar texture and taste.
How can I customize my carrot cake bars?
Feel free to add raisins, crushed pineapple, or even swap pecans for walnuts based on your preference.
What kind of frosting works best with carrot cake bars?
Cream cheese frosting is traditional, but you can also use vanilla buttercream or even whipped cream as alternatives.
How do I know when my carrot cake bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, they are ready!
Can I leave carrot cake bars out at room temperature?
Yes, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated afterward if not consumed.
Final Thoughts
These carrot cake bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeal to everyone. Their soft, moist consistency reminds you of both classic carrot cake and buttery blondies. Don’t hesitate to try customizing them with your favorite mix-ins! Enjoy this versatile dessert at gatherings or as a sweet treat any day of the week.
Carrot Cake Bars
Indulge in these delicious Carrot Cake Bars, a perfect blend of moistness and flavor that appeals to every palate. Featuring shredded carrots, warming spices, and crunchy pecans, these bars are topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting that adds a luscious finish reminiscent of classic carrot cake and buttery blondies. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these bars are an irresistible treat that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ¾ cup (172g) unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
- ½ cup (107g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1⅓ cup (170g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 2½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 scant teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots (loosely measured, not packed)
- ½ cup (65g) finely chopped toasted pecans
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1½ cups (187g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- finely chopped toasted pecans (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract; whisk until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
- Stir in shredded carrots and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 23 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Frost the cooled bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh carrots for better moisture and flavor. Avoid overmixing to maintain lightness in your bars. Feel free to add raisins or swap pecans for walnuts as desired.
