Experience the delightful fusion of classic flavors and effortless baking with our incredibly moist and sweet Carrot Cake Bars, generously topped with a rich, tangy vanilla cream cheese frosting. These delightful dessert bars are infused with the warm, inviting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by the natural sweetness of puréed carrots, creating a treat that promises to bring joy with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are destined to become your new favorite!
Indulge in the Ultimate Soft and Easy Carrot Cake Bars Recipe
There’s a special kind of magic in a really good carrot cake, and this recipe captures it perfectly in a convenient bar form. From the first time I discovered this gem in an old church cookbook dating back to 1980, it has been a consistent crowd-pleaser, always vanishing from the plate in record time. The simplicity of this carrot bar recipe is truly unmatched, making it a go-to for both seasoned bakers and beginners. Each bar is crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting, which provides the quintessential tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the spiced cake, elevating these carrot cake bars to a truly unforgettable dessert.
This recipe isn’t just about baking; it’s about creating moments of pure comfort and satisfaction. The batter comes together effortlessly in mere minutes, transforming into treats that are incredibly moist, wonderfully pleasant, and an absolute triumph for anyone who loves carrot cake. The secret to their unparalleled pillowy softness and delicate, light textures lies in a surprising ingredient: baby food carrots. Who would have thought that this simple addition could yield such a moist and tender crumb? This ingenious trick infuses the bars with intense carrot flavor and moisture, making them melt in your mouth and leave you craving more.
These delightful carrot squares are remarkably versatile, making them ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re planning a picnic, celebrating holidays, hosting a potluck, or simply looking to impress someone special (including yourself!), these bars fit the bill. The recipe truly captured my attention years ago, and ever since I unearthed it from that cherished old-fashioned cookbook, it has become a beloved family tradition. Whenever the craving for those timeless, classic flavors of carrot cake strikes, these dessert bars are our immediate answer, delivering that comforting taste of home with every bite.
What is it about carrot cake that holds such a special place in our hearts? Perhaps it’s the warm spices, the undeniable sweetness, or the comforting association with cherished memories. There’s nothing quite like the wave of nostalgia that washes over you when you bite into your favorite carrot-flavored desserts. The iconic combination of rich, spiced carrot cake and the silky, tangy goodness of cream cheese frosting is a culinary duo that simply can’t be beaten. This magical pairing appears in many beloved forms, from this very recipe to a fan-favorite carrot bundt cake. While I could extol the virtues of these recipes endlessly, I believe the extraordinary flavors themselves are the most eloquent spokespeople!
A Nod to National Cookbook Month and Cherished Recipes
October is a wonderful time to celebrate the culinary treasures found within cookbooks during National Cookbook Month. As a passionate collector, I’ve amassed hundreds of cookbooks over the years, but without a doubt, my most treasured volumes are the good old-fashioned community and church cookbooks. They hold a unique charm, brimming with recipes passed down through generations, often handwritten and full of heartwarming stories.
It’s in the spirit of this special month that I’m participating in an event with fellow food bloggers, each showcasing a beloved recipe from a cookbook of their choosing. You’ll find a list of all their delightful selections at the end of this post, just below our printable recipe card. This particular recipe for Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting was lovingly adapted from one I discovered in the Centennial Cookbook from Havelock United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska – a true testament to the timeless appeal of community recipes.
Why These Carrot Cake Bars Are Simply the Best
- Effortless Baking: One of the most remarkable aspects of this recipe is its sheer simplicity. The batter comes together quickly, and the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting can be effortlessly prepared while the carrot cake bars are baking. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you simply crave a homemade treat without the fuss. It proves that creating an incredibly delicious dessert doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
- Irresistible Indulgence: Prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavors! The warm, inviting notes of cinnamon and nutmeg truly shine through in every bite, creating a harmonious blend that perfectly complements the creamy, tangy topping. The secret ingredient – puréed baby food carrots – plays a crucial role here, ensuring each bar is exceptionally moist, tender, and almost impossibly easy to bite into. This combination results in a truly indulgent experience that satisfies both the craving for spice and sweetness.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: These bars strike the ideal balance of sweetness. They are sweet enough to thoroughly satisfy your dessert desires and sweet tooth cravings without being overly saccharine. This thoughtful balance makes them appealing to a wide range of palates, ensuring that everyone, from young children to adults, will find them utterly delightful and reach for a second piece.
- A Guaranteed Family Favorite: This recipe is designed to be loved by all ages. Its soft texture, familiar flavors, and comforting aroma make it an instant hit with everyone in the family. In my experience, these cake bars disappear so quickly that I always make sure to bake an extra batch. They are perfect for family desserts, school lunchboxes, holiday gatherings, or just a simple afternoon treat that brings smiles all around.
Essential Ingredients for Carrot Cake Perfection
Dry Ingredients
Granulated White Sugar: Beyond providing sweetness, sugar contributes significantly to the tender and soft texture of these cake bars. It helps retain moisture, ensuring a delightful crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
All-Purpose Flour: This versatile flour forms the foundational structure of our carrot cake bars. It’s a pantry staple, making this recipe convenient and accessible for almost any home baker.
Baking Soda: As a crucial leavening agent, baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients in the batter to produce carbon dioxide, which helps the cake rise, creating that wonderfully fluffy and light texture we all love.
Salt: A small amount of salt is essential for enhancing and balancing the overall flavors of the cake. It subtly highlights the sweetness and spices, preventing the bars from tasting bland or one-dimensional.
Ground Cinnamon: This warm, aromatic spice is a hallmark of classic carrot cake. Ground cinnamon infuses the bars with its distinctive comforting and slightly spicy notes, which are absolutely vital for that nostalgic flavor profile. If you only have cinnamon sticks, you can finely grate them or process them into a powder for use.
Ground Nutmeg: Often paired with cinnamon, ground nutmeg adds a deeply aromatic, subtly sweet, and woody spice note that rounds out the flavor of the carrot cake. For the best aroma, use freshly grated whole nutmeg if you have it; otherwise, ground nutmeg works perfectly.
Wet Ingredients
Large Eggs: You’ll need four large eggs for this recipe, acting as both a binder and a source of richness. For optimal incorporation and a smoother batter, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before you begin mixing.
Vegetable Oil: Unlike butter, oil stays liquid at room temperature, contributing significantly to the incredible moisture and tenderness of these carrot cake bars. It results in a consistently soft crumb that lasts for days.
Puréed Baby Food Carrots: This is the brilliant secret ingredient that sets this recipe apart! Using jars of strained baby food carrots provides an effortless way to incorporate intense, true carrot flavor and exceptional moisture without any chunky texture. The finely puréed carrots blend seamlessly into the batter, ensuring a supremely soft and delicious bar.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioner’s sugar or icing sugar, this finely milled sugar is key to creating a smooth, lump-free frosting with a delightful sweetness. It dissolves easily, giving the frosting its characteristic silky texture.
Pure Vanilla Extract: A generous dash of pure vanilla extract is an absolute must for the frosting. It infuses the cream cheese mixture with a warm, inviting aroma and a classic flavor that beautifully complements the spiced carrot cake.
Unsalted Butter: We use softened butter in the frosting to provide richness and structure. Make sure your butter is truly softened (but not melted) to ensure it creams smoothly with the cream cheese, resulting in a light and airy frosting.
Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, softened cream cheese delivers that signature tangy, rich, and slightly savory flavor that is the perfect counterpoint to sweet carrot cake. Ensure it’s properly softened for a wonderfully fluffy and smooth consistency.
Wondering where to find jars of baby food carrots? Look no further than the baby food aisle of your local well-stocked grocery store or supermarket. These stores almost always carry a variety of puréed baby vegetables, including carrots, making this special ingredient easy to find.
How to Make Irresistible Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these detailed steps closely, and your carrot cake bars will turn out perfectly delicious and incredibly moist every single time. The accompanying images will guide you through each stage of the process, from left to right.
First Step – Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your batter is ready. Next, take a jelly roll pan, typically measuring 10 ½” x 15 ½”, and generously grease it. You can use butter, shortening, or a baking spray to ensure the bars release easily after baking. Once prepared, set the pan aside.
Second Step – Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature eggs and granulated sugar. Using either a sturdy wooden spoon or an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), cream these ingredients together until the mixture becomes pale, light, and wonderfully fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s tender texture. After achieving a fluffy consistency, gradually mix in the vegetable oil until it is fully incorporated. Finally, gently stir in the puréed baby food carrots until they are just combined and the batter appears smooth and uniform.
Third Step – Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, it’s time to prepare your dry ingredients. Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Sifting is an important step as it removes any lumps, aerates the flour, and ensures all the spices are evenly distributed, leading to a lighter and more consistent cake texture. Once sifted, gradually pour these dry ingredients into the wet carrot mixture. Stir gently as you add them, mixing just until the flour streaks disappear. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten too much and result in tough, dry bars.
Fourth Step – Bake to Golden Perfection
Carefully spread the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased jelly roll pan, making sure it covers the entire surface for uniform baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. The key to knowing they’re done is the toothpick test: insert a wooden toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean with no wet batter clinging to it, your bars are ready. Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on your bars during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overbaking.
Fifth Step – Cool Completely
Once your carrot cake bars are perfectly baked, carefully remove them from the oven. It is absolutely essential to allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial! Attempting to frost warm or even slightly warm bars will cause your beautiful cream cheese frosting to melt and slide right off, ruining the presentation and texture. Use this cooling time to prepare your luscious cream cheese frosting, ensuring everything is ready for assembly.
Prepare the Silky Cream Cheese Frosting
While your carrot cake bars are cooling, you can whip up the divine cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and softened cream cheese. It’s important that both are at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free frosting. Cream these two ingredients together until they are light, fluffy, and well combined. Next, add the pure vanilla extract and gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed initially to prevent a cloud of sugar. Increase the speed to medium and beat the frosting until it is exceptionally smooth, completely lump-free, and delightfully fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
Frost the Carrot Bars with Love
Once your carrot cake has completely cooled to room temperature, it’s time for the crowning glory: the cream cheese frosting! Using a rubber spatula or an offset spatula, gently spread the prepared frosting evenly over the entire surface of the cooled cake. Aim for a smooth, consistent layer to ensure every bite gets a generous dollop of that delicious tangy sweetness. Take your time to achieve a beautiful finish.
Once frosted, you can slice and enjoy these delectable bars immediately. If you prefer, or if you’re making them ahead of time, refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Trust me, you are going to absolutely LOVE these moist, spiced, and perfectly frosted carrot cake bars!
Love This Carrot Cake Bars Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away! Be sure to save these delightful carrot cake bars with cream cheese frosting for the next time that craving for a classic, comforting carrot cake strikes. This recipe is celebrated for its ease, with the batter often coming together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Make it simple to revisit this family favorite by pinning it to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest!
Expert Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake Bars
- Avoid Overbaking for Ultimate Moistness: To guarantee your carrot cake bars remain incredibly moist and tender, it’s crucial not to overbake them. Keep a close eye on the baking time, and always rely on the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the bars are done. Overbaking is the quickest way to dry out any cake.
- Enhance with Delicious Add-ins: For an extra layer of flavor and delightful texture, consider folding in ½ to 1 cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or golden raisins into the batter before baking. These additions complement the spices beautifully and add a wonderful chewiness or crunch.
- Proper Storage for Lasting Freshness: To keep your carrot cake bars fresh, arrange them in a single layer within an airtight container. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where they will maintain their deliciousness for up to three days. For longer storage, you can even freeze individual bars, well-wrapped, for up to a month.
- Creative Flavor Variations: While carrots are classic, feel free to experiment with other puréed vegetables for a twist. Puréed pumpkin or butternut squash can make excellent substitutes for the baby food carrots, offering a similar moist texture and a delicious seasonal flavor. Adjust spices as needed to complement your chosen vegetable.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
These heavenly baked treats are absolutely perfect as a sweet finish after main course meals or a casual lunch. I often find myself baking these bars when we’re preparing for tailgating events, knowing they’ll be an immediate hit and everyone will be clamoring for more! This carrot bar recipe is also wonderfully versatile for quieter moments. Enjoy a piece with a refreshing glass of your favorite cold milk, or pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and utterly delicious afternoon indulgence. The possibilities are endless for enjoying these flavorful bars!
Discover Other Tasty Bars and Desserts You Will Enjoy
If you’ve enjoyed these Carrot Cake Bars, you’re in for a treat! Be sure to explore all of my dessert recipes to find another delightful treat that perfectly suits your taste. There’s truly something for everyone to discover and enjoy in my collection!
- Bright & Zesty Lemon Brownies
- Decadent Double Chocolate Caramel Brownies
- Refreshing Citrus Carrot Cookies
- Cozy Pumpkin Spice Bars
- Sweet & Salty Salted Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Bars
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Rating: 4.86 from 14 votes
Print Recipe
Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist carrot bars baked with cinnamon and nutmeg, slathered with creamy, tangy vanilla cream cheese frosting. These delightful snack cakes are perfect for any time of the year, offering a taste of comfort and indulgence.
10 mins
30 mins
40 mins
Cuisine: American |
Keywords: cake bars, carrot bars with baby food, carrot bars with cream cheese frosting, Carrot cake bars, jelly roll pan, recipe, snack cakes
Servings: 20 bars |
Calories: 303kcal |
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Offset Spatula, SIMEEGO Icing Spatula Set with 6 8 10 Inch Stainless Steel Blades
- Glass Batter Bowl
- Rubber Spatulas
- Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Hand Mixer
- Wilton Performance Pans Aluminum Jelly Roll and Cookie Pan, 10.5 x 15.5-Inch
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 4 eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 (4 ounce) jars of strained baby food carrots
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Icing
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (160°C). Lightly grease a jelly roll pan (10 ½” x 15 ½”) and set it aside. This ensures a clean release for your baked bars.
- In a large mixing bowl, using either a wooden spoon or an electric mixer (stand or hand-held), cream together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This aeration is key to a tender cake. Gradually mix in the vegetable oil until fully combined and smooth.
- Gently stir in the puréed baby food carrots until they are just incorporated into the wet mixture and the batter appears smooth. Avoid overmixing at this stage.
- In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Sifting ensures uniform distribution of dry ingredients and prevents lumps. Slowly add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet carrot mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Mix only until no dry streaks remain to prevent developing too much gluten, which can lead to tough bars.
- Carefully spread the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased jelly roll pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so monitor your bars closely towards the end of the baking time.
- Once baked, remove the carrot cake bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. It is crucial for the cake to be entirely cool before you apply the frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off.
- While the bars cool, prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is very smooth, lump-free, and creamy.
- Finally, once the cake is fully cooled, use a rubber spatula or an offset spatula to evenly spread the creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting over the entire surface of the carrot cake bars.
Nutrition
Serving: 2 | Calories: 303kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 280mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 28g
National Cookbook Month Blog Post Contributors
- Betty Crocker Blueberry Muffins by Art of Natural Living
- BBQ Chicken Tortilla Wraps by A Day in the Life on the Farm
- Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting by An Affair from the Heart
- Chickpea Tortilla Soup by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
- Chocolate Crepes by That Recipe
- Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies by Jen Around the World
- French Classics Made Easy: Savory Stuffed Crepes by Our Good Life
- German Chocolate Cookies by Blogghetti
- Helga’s Meatballs by Palatable Pastime
- Lima Beans with Bacon and Mustard by Food Lust People Love
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins by Family Around the Table
- Vegan Green Loobia Polo by Magical Ingredients
- Wild Rice and Onion Bread by Karen’s Kitchen Stories