Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Hello, dear readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a mouth-watering recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delightful treat for a family gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to hit the spot.

Introduction

Carrot cake has always been a beloved classic, known for its moist texture and rich flavor. These carrot cake bars take that tradition to the next level with a creamy, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the spiced cake. This recipe has a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of baking spices filled the air.

Ingredients

To prepare this comforting recipe, you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own delicious carrot cake bars:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the 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.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
6. Make the Frosting: To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until creamy and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Cut into bars and garnish with additional chopped walnuts, if desired.