Carrot Cake Bars – Moist, Spiced & Irresistible!

These Carrot Cake Bars are moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, making them the perfect dessert for Easter, spring gatherings, or anytime you crave carrot cake!

With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bars deliver all the flavors of classic carrot cake in an easy-to-slice bar form. No layers, no fuss—just pure carrot cake goodness!

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Ingredients for Carrot Cake Bars

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups (220g) grated carrots
• ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra chopped walnuts or pecans
• Shredded coconut
• A sprinkle of cinnamon

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Hand or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

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2. Make the Carrot Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
5. Fold in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).

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3. Bake the Bars

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

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4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract for extra flavor.

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5. Frost & Serve

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a dusting of cinnamon for garnish.
3. Slice into squares and serve!

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Expert Tips for the Best Carrot Cake Bars

Use freshly grated carrots – They add moisture and better texture than pre-shredded carrots.
Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
Let the bars cool before frosting – This prevents the frosting from melting.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the parchment paper – Makes removal and slicing easier.
Overbaking the bars – Check at 25 minutes to prevent dryness.
Using too much flour – Spoon and level it instead of scooping to avoid dense bars.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced chai.
• Top with extra nuts or coconut for a bakery-style finish.
• Drizzle with a touch of caramel sauce for added decadence.

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How to Store & Make Ahead

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Make Ahead:

• Bake the bars 1-2 days ahead and store them covered. Frost just before serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it gluten-free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Add raisins – Mix in ½ cup golden raisins for extra sweetness.
• Swap the frosting – Try maple or cinnamon buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting.

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What to Serve with Carrot Cake Bars

• A glass of cold milk or almond milk
• Fresh fruit like sliced apples or strawberries
• A warm chai latte or cinnamon-spiced coffee

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these bars without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

How do I make the frosting firmer?

Chill the frosting for 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the bars.

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Conclusion

These Carrot Cake Bars are soft, moist, and packed with warm spices, making them the perfect dessert for Easter, spring, or any time of year! With rich cream cheese frosting and easy prep, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious dessert ideas!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 280 kcal per bar (based on 15 servings).

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Serves: 15

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