Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease.
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until fully combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely after baking.
- While the bars are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until creamy and fluffy.
- Once the bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For the best texture, refrigerate the frosted bars for at least 30 minutes before slicing them into bars.
How to serve Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These carrot cake bars shine when served fresh and chilled from the fridge. For a charming presentation, cut them into elegant squares and plate them on a beautiful serving dish. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and perhaps garnish with a sprinkle of grated carrot or crushed walnuts on top. They are also fantastic enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your carrot cake bars delectable and moist, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best consumed within a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze wonderfully. Just wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Extra advice
For the best flavor, be sure to use fresh spices. Ground spices can lose their potency over time, so check the expiration dates or switch them out for fresher alternatives if needed. Another tip is to grate your carrots finely to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter, enhancing the sweetness without overwhelming the texture.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with your carrot cake bars! You can add raisins or swap the walnuts for pecans. For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut to the batter. If you’re looking for a healthier option, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Experimenting with various spices, like cardamom or cloves, can also add a unique flavor profile!
FAQ
What is the prep time for carrot cake bars?
The prep time for this recipe is approximately 20-25 minutes, with an additional 30-35 minutes of baking time.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the same delicious result.
Is it okay to freeze the bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped, and they can last up to three months in the freezer.
Dive into this delightful recipe, and experience the joy of baking these scrumptious carrot cake bars at home! Happy baking!
