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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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If you’re craving a dessert that embodies warmth and nostalgia, look no further than these Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Bursting with cozy spices and the delightful crunch of carrots, these soft and moist bars are perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. With their irresistible sweetness and creamy frosting, they are sure to win over both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Serve them at your next potluck or family gathering, and watch them disappear in a flash!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups finely grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined; then fold in grated carrots and optional nuts.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow bars to cool completely before frosting: beat cream cheese and softened butter together; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
  7. Spread the frosting over cooled bars, cut into squares, and enjoy!

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