Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Category: Decadent Desserts

Classic carrot cake in bar form with cream cheese frosting. Features carrots, pineapple, and warm spices. Ready in about an hour.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:38:30 GMT
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A perfect blend of sweet carrots, warm spices, and tangy cream cheese creates these irresistible Carrot Cake Bars. Each bite delivers moist, tender cake studded with fresh carrots and crushed pineapple, all crowned with a silky cream cheese frosting that takes this classic to new heights.

After years of perfecting this recipe, I've found that freshly grated carrots and well-drained pineapple create the perfect moisture level. The way these ingredients work together produces bars that stay remarkably fresh and delicious for days.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Fresh carrots: Provide natural moisture and sweetness.
  • Quality cream cheese: Ensures perfect frosting.
  • Fresh spices: Deliver warm, aromatic flavor.
  • Well-drained pineapple: Adds subtle tang.
  • Pure vanilla extract: Enhances overall taste.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Spice Preparation:
Measure spices carefully for perfect balance.
Carrot Grating:
Use freshly grated carrots for best texture.
Pineapple Draining:
Remove excess moisture thoroughly.
Butter Creaming:
Beat until light and fluffy for ideal texture.
Gentle Mixing:
Fold ingredients carefully to maintain tenderness.
Even Spreading:
Distribute batter uniformly in pan.
Proper Testing:
Check center for complete doneness.
Frosting Application:
Spread smoothly once completely cooled.
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The secret to these bars lies in the perfect ratio of carrots to pineapple. My kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma of warm spices while they bake, making it nearly impossible to wait for them to cool before frosting.

Perfect Serving Ideas

Present these elegant bars on a rustic wooden board dusted with powdered sugar. For special occasions, pipe small rosettes of cream cheese frosting on each square and garnish with finely chopped candied walnuts. Create a dessert buffet by pairing them with fresh berries and mint leaves for color contrast.

Creative Variations

Transform this classic by adding shredded coconut for tropical flair. Experiment with different nuts - try toasted pecans or macadamia nuts for unique texture. Create a spiced version by adding cardamom and ginger to the traditional cinnamon blend, or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Storage Success

Maintain the perfect texture by storing your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cream cheese frosting stays fresh and the bars actually become more moist and flavorful over time. For longer storage, wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to three months.

Temperature Tips

Serve these bars slightly chilled or at room temperature depending on preference. If serving from the refrigerator, let them stand for 15 minutes to allow the frosting to soften slightly and the flavors to fully develop.

Creating these Carrot Cake Bars has become one of my favorite baking traditions. The way they combine wholesome carrots with indulgent cream cheese frosting creates the perfect balance of flavors. Each time I make them, watching people's eyes light up at first bite reminds me that sometimes the most beloved desserts are those that feel both comforting and special at the same time.

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Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I skip the pineapple?
Yes, though it helps keep the bars moist. You can substitute with applesauce if preferred.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Add frosting after thawing.
→ Why add pineapple to carrot cake?
Pineapple adds natural sweetness and helps keep the cake moist without making it heavy.
→ Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Fresh grated carrots work best as they're more moist. Pre-shredded ones can be too dry.

Carrot Cake Bars with Frosting

Moist spiced carrot cake bars topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Made with fresh carrots and crushed pineapple for extra flavor.

Preparation Time
25 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Total Time Required
60 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Sweet Treats

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: American

Recipe Output: 24 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Gather

→ Dry Ingredients

Contains 01 items 2 cups all-purpose flour
Contains 02 items 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Contains 03 items 1 teaspoon baking soda
Contains 04 items 1/2 teaspoon salt
Contains 05 items 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Contains 06 items 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Contains 07 items 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

→ Wet Ingredients

Contains 08 items 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Contains 09 items 1 cup granulated sugar
Contains 10 items 1/2 cup brown sugar
Contains 11 items 3 large eggs
Contains 12 items 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Contains 13 items 2 cups grated carrots
Contains 14 items 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Contains 15 items 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

Contains 16 items 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Contains 17 items 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Contains 18 items 2 cups powdered sugar
Contains 19 items 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Step 02

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 03

Beat butter and sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients. Fold in carrots, pineapple, and walnuts.

Step 04

Pour batter into pan. Bake 30-35 minutes until done. Cool completely.

Step 05

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Spread over cooled cake.

Important Tips

  1. Use room temperature butter and cream cheese
  2. Drain pineapple well to avoid excess moisture

Essential Tools

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Mixing bowls

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains wheat/gluten
  • Contains nuts (walnuts)

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 285
  • Fat Amount: 14.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38.5 g
  • Protein Amount: 4.3 g