Carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These bars are moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making them a favorite among bakers and food lovers alike. I remember the first time I made these bars for a family gathering; they disappeared within minutes! Not only do they showcase vibrant carrots, but the addition of crushed pineapple adds a lovely sweetness and moisture that elevates them to pure bliss.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting. For one, they are budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Ideal for every occasion, be it a cozy family brunch or a festive holiday gathering, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they are kid-approved, so you can enjoy the satisfaction of tempting even the pickiest eaters!

"These carrot cake bars are a game changer! The cream cheese frosting takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. I can’t wait to make them again!" – Happy Baker

Preparing Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Making these carrot cake bars is a straightforward process that brings all the flavors and textures together in just a few steps. You’ll start by preparing the oven and pan before mixing your ingredients to create a delicious batter. Once you pour that batter into the baking dish and let it bake, the enticing aroma will fill your kitchen. The final touch is the velvety cream cheese frosting, ready to be spread over the cooled bars—this is where the magic happens!

What you’ll need

To create these delectable carrot cake bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to substitute crushed pineapple with applesauce for a different flavor or leave out the walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version!