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Indulging in a decadent dessert doesn’t have to come with guilt, especially when it’s something as wholesome as Heavenly Carrot Cake Bars with Creamy Bliss Frosting. This delightful treat marries the warm spices and natural sweetness of carrots and pineapple with a rich cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that’s not only delicious but also packed with flavor. Perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or simply a cozy night in, these bars are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Discover the joy of baking with Heavenly Carrot Cake Bars topped with Creamy Bliss Frosting! This delightful dessert combines the natural sweetness of carrots and pineapple with warm spices, creating a flavor-packed treat that's perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, these bars are a guilt-free indulgence that will impress friends and family alike. Check out the full recipe and tips to create these irresistible carrot cake bars and elevate your dessert game!

Ingredients
  

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)

½ cup crushed pineapple, drained

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.

      Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

        Combine Wet and Dry Mixes: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

          Fold in Carrots, Pineapple, and Nuts: Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using). Mix until evenly distributed in the batter.

            Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

              Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the bars are cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar, continuing to mix until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

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

                  Cut and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon over the frosting. Enjoy your decadent treat!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12-16 bars