Craving a dessert recipe that’s rich, spiced, and topped with luscious frosting? These decadent carrot cake bars are the perfect treat! They bring the classic flavors of a traditional carrot cake into an easy-to-make bar format.
With a moist texture, warm spices, and a creamy cream cheese frosting, this dessert recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are a must-try!
The Perfect Texture: Moist & Flavorful
The key to an irresistible cake bar recipe is achieving the perfect texture. These bars are soft, tender, and packed with flavor.
The combination of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives them a cozy, comforting taste, while grated carrots add natural moisture.
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A touch of crushed pineapple enhances the overall texture, making every bite incredibly soft and flavorful. The balance of sweet and spiced flavors makes them a crowd favorite.
Why This Cake Bar Recipe Stand Out
- Easy to make: No layering, no complicated steps—just mix, bake, and frost!
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or casual dessert, these bars are always a hit.
- Rich and creamy frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the spiced cake.
- Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or a caramel drizzle to personalize the recipe.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
- With a warm beverage: Pair these bars with a spiced chai latte, black coffee, or a glass of milk.
- As a dessert platter: Serve alongside other sweet treats for a stunning dessert spread.
- With an extra topping: Garnish with chopped walnuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even toasted coconut for added texture and flavor.
Storage Tips: Keeping Your Cake Bars Fresh
To keep these cake bars fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The frosting stays firm, and the flavors deepen over time.
- Freezing: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Room temperature storage: If unfrosted, these bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for two days.
Variations to Try
- Gluten-free option: Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Nut-free version: Skip the walnuts or replace them with raisins for a chewy texture.
- Spice twist: Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
- Dairy-free alternative: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese for a completely dairy-free version.
This dessert recipe is a must-have for any sweet lover. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing.
Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with your afternoon coffee, these carrot cake bars will always be a delicious choice!
Best Decadent Carrot Cake Bar Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts optional
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combining Ingredients and Baking:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots, drained crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Frosting and Serving:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Cut into bars of your desired size.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.