Cream Cheese Carrot Cake Bars

Indulge in the delightful fusion of moist carrot cake and rich cream cheese frosting with these Cream Cheese Carrot Cake Bars. Perfectly spiced and topped with a luscious frosting, these bars offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the carrot cake pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting, creating a harmonious flavor profile.​
• Moist and Tender: The use of ingredients like applesauce and crushed pineapple ensures a moist and tender crumb.​
• Versatile: Ideal for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

• Unsweetened applesauce or oil​averiecooks.com+3Mom On Timeout+3To Simply Inspire+3
• Granulated sugar​Ramshackle Pantry
• Eggs​
• All-purpose flour​
• Baking soda​
• Baking powder​
• Salt​
• Ground cinnamon​
• Grated carrots​
• Shredded sweetened coconut​
• Chopped nuts (optional)​
• Vanilla extract​
• Crushed pineapple (not drained)​

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Butter, softened​Kroll’s Korner
• Cream cheese, softened​
• Vanilla extract​Best Cookie Recipes+3Kroll’s Korner+3To Simply Inspire+3
• Powdered sugar​

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.​Mom On Timeout
2. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a large bowl, combine the applesauce (or oil), sugar, and eggs until well mixed.​Mom On Timeout
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.​To Simply Inspire+1Mom On Timeout+1
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.​
   • Fold in the grated carrots, shredded coconut, chopped nuts (if using), vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple with its juice.​Mom On Timeout+1Kroll’s Korner+1
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.​
4. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.​
   • Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.​
5. Frost the Bars: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.​
6. Serve: Cut into bars and serve.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 bars.​
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes.​
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes.​Log in or sign up to view+2To Simply Inspire+2Mom On Timeout+2
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes.​

Variations

• Add Raisins: Incorporate ½ cup of raisins into the batter for added sweetness and texture.​Best Cookie Recipes+1To Simply Inspire+1
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts for an allergy-friendly version without compromising on taste.​
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.​

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.​
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.​Ramshackle Pantry
• Serving: For best flavor, allow refrigerated bars to come to room temperature before serving.​

FAQs

How do I ensure the bars are moist?

Using ingredients like applesauce and crushed pineapple adds moisture to the batter, resulting in tender bars.​

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

It’s best to grate fresh carrots, as pre-shredded ones can be dry and less flavorful.​Mom On Timeout+3Kroll’s Korner+3Kroll’s Korner+3

Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars?

Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting, it’s advisable to store the bars in the refrigerator.​

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.​

What can I use instead of applesauce?

You can use an equal amount of vegetable oil if you prefer.​

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened but not melted, and add the powdered sugar gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.​

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor.​

How should I cut the bars for serving?

Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat, even slices.​Kroll’s Korner

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.​

Are there any nut-free alternatives?

Simply omit the nuts from the recipe, or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture.​Ramshackle Pantry

Conclusion

These Cream Cheese Carrot Cake Bars offer a delectable combination

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