These Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of rich, creamy cheesecake and moist, spiced carrot cake! With warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors blended into a soft cake layer and swirled with smooth, tangy cheesecake, this dessert is perfect for Easter, spring gatherings, or any time you crave a unique sweet treat.
The best part? You get two desserts in one—without the hassle of making a layered cake!
Ingredients for Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars
For the Carrot Cake Layer:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Carrot Cake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in shredded carrots and walnuts.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Make the Cheesecake Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars
- Spread ¾ of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture on top and spread evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining carrot cake batter over the cheesecake layer.
- Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the batter and cheesecake together for a marbled effect.
5. Bake the Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
6. Slice & Serve!
- Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out.
- Slice into squares and enjoy these creamy, spiced, and decadent dessert bars!
Expert Tips for the Best Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars
Use room-temperature cream cheese – Ensures a smooth cheesecake layer.
Shred carrots finely – Helps them blend seamlessly into the batter.
Chill before slicing – Helps bars hold their shape and enhances flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the batter – Can make the cake layer dense.
Skipping the chill time – Bars will be too soft to slice neatly.
Using pre-shredded carrots – They are too dry; fresh ones add moisture.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Drizzle with cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
How to Store & Make Ahead
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating:
- These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Freezing:
- Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it nut-free – Skip the walnuts or replace them with raisins.
- Use a spice blend – Add pumpkin spice for extra warmth.
- Try a different cheese – Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a richer taste.
What to Serve with Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars
- A warm cup of chai or coffee
- A fresh fruit salad for contrast
- Homemade whipped cream for extra creaminess
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this in a 9×13-inch pan?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Do I need to peel the carrots?
Yes, peeling removes any bitterness and ensures a smooth texture.
Can I use store-bought cheesecake filling?
Freshly made cheesecake mixture gives the best flavor, but you can use store-bought in a pinch.
Conclusion
These Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars are creamy, spiced, and irresistibly delicious—the perfect fusion of two classic desserts! Whether for Easter, holiday gatherings, or a sweet treat any time of the year, these bars are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more decadent dessert ideas!
Calories Per Serving
Approximate Calories: 290 kcal per bar (based on 12 servings).
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Serves: 12
PrintCarrot Cake Cheesecake Bars – Creamy, Spiced & Irresistible!
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
These Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced carrot cake! A delicious and easy dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Layer:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots
- ½ cup (50g) chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Carrot Cake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in shredded carrots and walnuts.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Make the Cheesecake Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars
- Spread ¾ of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture on top and spread evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining carrot cake batter over the cheesecake layer.
- Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the batter and cheesecake together for a marbled effect.
5. Bake the Carrot Cake Cheesecake Bars
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
6. Slice & Serve!
- Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out.
- Slice into squares and enjoy these creamy, spiced, and decadent dessert bars!
Notes
✔ Use room-temperature cream cheese – Ensures a smooth cheesecake layer.
✔ Shred carrots finely – Helps them blend seamlessly into the batter.
✔ Chill before slicing – Helps bars hold their shape and enhances flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: DESSERT
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 290