Introduction
These delightful carrot cake bars topped with creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting are a perfect treat for any occasion. Packed with fresh carrots, these bars offer the wonderful flavors of a classic carrot cake in a convenient, hand-held form.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
250g grated carrots
125g all-purpose flour
100g granulated sugar
100g brown sugar
100ml vegetable oil
2 large eggs
5g baking powder
3g baking soda
3g ground cinnamon
2g salt
1g nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
225g cream cheese, softened
50g unsalted butter, softened
100g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated carrots gently until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
9. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
10. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
11. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars.
12. Cut into squares and serve.
Enjoy your delicious carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Whisk thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the large eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your bars.
5. Fold in the Carrots
Gently fold in the grated carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without overworking the mixture.
6. Prepare for Baking
Pour the prepared batter into the greased and lined baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, making sure the batter is spread evenly in the pan.
7. Bake the Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack while still in the pan. This cooling process is essential for proper texture.
9. Prepare the Frosting
For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together in a bowl until creamy and smooth, creating a luscious texture.
10. Sweeten the Frosting
Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and continue to mix in the vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is fluffy and well combined, creating a light and airy frosting.
11. Frost the Bars
Once the carrot cake bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula, making sure to cover every corner for maximum flavor.
12. Cut and Serve
Cut the frosted carrot cake into squares and serve. These delightful hand-held bars are perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a sweet treat at home.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the bars fresh. They can last up to a week, although they are best enjoyed within the first few days.
Texture and Flavor
These bars should have a moist, rich texture with a wonderful balance of spices that compliment the sweetness of the carrots, all topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving these carrot cake bars with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or pair them with fresh fruits for a balanced snack.
Cook Techniques
Grating Carrots
Use a box grater or food processor to finely grate fresh carrots. This ensures even distribution of moisture and sweetness throughout the bars.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Thoroughly whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. This helps to evenly incorporate the leavening agents and prevents any clumping.
Combining Wet Ingredients
When mixing eggs, oil, and vanilla, ensure they are well blended before adding them to the dry mixture. This promotes even moisture throughout the batter.
Folding in Carrots
Gently fold the grated carrots into the batter with a spatula. Take care not to overmix to maintain tenderness in the bars.
Baking Evenly
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan to ensure uniform baking. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, checking around the 25-minute mark.
Cooling Properly
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy and makes them easier to frost.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar for a smoother consistency and avoid lumps.
Spreading Frosting
Use an offset spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. This helps achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish.
FAQ
Can I use pre-grated carrots?
It’s best to use fresh gratings for optimal flavor and moisture, but pre-grated carrots can be used in a pinch.
How can I make my frosting fluffier?
Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature and beat them together well before adding powdered sugar.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the bars?
Yes! Chopped nuts or raisins can be folded into the batter along with the grated carrots for added texture and flavor.
How should I store leftover carrot cake bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
What can I substitute for the vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, applesauce, or unsweetened yogurt for a different flavor profile and texture.
Conclusion
These carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful fusion of flavor and convenience, delivering the classic taste of carrot cake in an easy-to-enjoy format. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home, they are sure to please both carrot cake enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Carrot Cake Bars
Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for an indulgent twist on the classic flavor.
Walnut Carrot Cake Bars
Add chopped walnuts to the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the carrots.
Pineapple Coconut Carrot Cake Bars
Mix crushed pineapple and shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair.
Spiced Carrot Cake Bars
Enhance the spices with ginger or allspice for a more robust flavor profile.
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
Swap the cream cheese frosting for a zesty lemon version for a refreshing tang.
Raisins or Dried Cranberries
Include raisins or dried cranberries to offer a chewy, fruity element to the bars.
Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Bars
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Carrot Cake Muffins
Transform the batter into muffins for a portable breakfast or snack option that’s just as delicious.
