Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups finely grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (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
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, beat oil, applesauce, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.
Stir in dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in grated carrots and nuts (if using).
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
Slice the cake in half horizontally to create layers (optional). Spread frosting over cooled cake or between layers.
Garnish with extra grated carrot and chopped nuts if desired. Chill before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 bars
Tips:
Use finely grated carrots for a moist texture that blends beautifully.
Chill before slicing for clean, bakery-style edges.
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