Carrot Cake Bars Recipe

Name: Carrot Cake Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter; 2/3 cup brown sugar, firmly packed divided; 1 egg, room temp; 1 egg yolk, room temp; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1 1/2 cups grated carrot; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 2 cups confectioner's sugar

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe yields 16 delicious carrot cake bars, perfect for any occasion. The rich flavor comes from browned butter, freshly grated carrots, and a decadent cream cheese frosting that ties it all together. Follow the steps below to create a perfect batch!

Ingredients

Bars:

3/4 cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar, divided
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 1/2 cups grated carrot

Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese
1 pinch salt
2 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter begins to brown and release a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Carefully measure out 1/4 cup of the browned butter and set it aside for the frosting. Pour the remaining butter into a large mixing bowl and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring there's an overhang on all sides for easy removal later.

Step 3: To the cooled brown butter in the mixing bowl, add the brown sugar. Whisk until fully combined. Then, whisk in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, nutmeg, and allspice to the bowl. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Gently fold in the grated carrots until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.

Step 7: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a light press on the center of the bars causes them to spring back. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.

Step 10: Beat in the reserved 1/4 cup of browned butter until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and salt, then beat in 1 cup of powdered sugar. Once smooth, add the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar and beat until fully incorporated. Continue beating for another 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is completely smooth.

Step 11: Cover the frosting and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 12: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. For best results, refrigerate the frosted bars for about 1 hour before slicing. This allows the frosting to firm up for easier cutting.

Step 13: Once chilled, cut the bars into 16 equal pieces and enjoy!

Cook's Note:

You can customize these carrot cake bars by adding toasted walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the batter when you fold in the carrots, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 247
Total Fat: 14g (19% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (43% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 72mg (24% Daily Value)
Sodium: 218mg (9% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 27g (10% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 22g
Protein: 3g (5% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium: 34mg (3% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (3% Daily Value)
Potassium: 84mg (2% Daily Value)

Note: Nutritional values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful dessert known for their moist, spiced flavor and creamy frosting. Unlike traditional carrot cake, these bars are a simpler and quicker alternative, but without sacrificing any of the rich, comforting taste. They feature a beautifully golden brown butter base that adds a deep, nutty flavor to the cake, balanced perfectly by the smooth cream cheese frosting.

Origin and History

The origin of carrot cake can be traced back to the medieval era when sweeteners like honey and fruits were hard to come by. People used carrots, which were plentiful and naturally sweet, in cakes as a substitute for sugar. The modern version of carrot cake, with the familiar combination of spiced cake and cream cheese frosting, became popular in the United States during the 1960s. However, the idea of combining carrots with baked goods has much older roots, dating back to the times when carrots were widely used in European sweet dishes, especially during wartime, when sugar was rationed.

Regional Features

Carrot cake is widely popular across the globe, particularly in the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe. In the U.S., carrot cake became a staple at holiday gatherings, especially during Easter, when its warm, spiced flavors complement the season. While the recipe is relatively universal, some regional variations exist. For instance, in the Southern U.S., nuts like walnuts or pecans and raisins are often added, providing a crunch and additional sweetness. In contrast, British versions sometimes include less spice and a simpler icing, making the cake less indulgent but equally flavorful.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Carrot Cake Bars differ from traditional carrot cake primarily in their form. While carrot cake is typically made as a layered cake, carrot cake bars are baked in a shallow pan and cut into squares, making them a more portable, casual option. Additionally, carrot cake bars often have a lighter, fluffier texture due to the way they are mixed, and they are typically topped with a rich cream cheese frosting thats easy to spread. In comparison, traditional carrot cake often features a denser texture and sometimes includes additional ingredients like pineapples or coconut, which are absent from these bars.

Where They're Usually Served

Carrot cake bars are a versatile treat that can be served in a variety of settings. They are commonly found at casual gatherings, such as picnics, coffee breaks, and afternoon tea parties, thanks to their easy-to-serve square shape. They're also popular as an office snack or at family gatherings, where they can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike. These bars are especially perfect for people who enjoy the flavors of traditional carrot cake but need a quicker, more accessible option.

Interesting Facts

The addition of browned butter in this recipe adds a unique depth of flavor, giving the bars a subtle caramelized taste thats different from the usual butter used in carrot cake recipes.
Carrot cake bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them ideal for meal prep or as a dessert to enjoy over multiple days.
Carrot cakes popularity soared in the U.S. after it was featured in a 1970s cookbook, and it has since become a beloved dessert that is often associated with holiday celebrations.
For a unique twist, try adding toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter, or even a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

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FAQ about Carrot Cake Bars Recipe

Store the carrot cake bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them for longer, it's best to refrigerate them. They can stay fresh for up to 1 week when refrigerated.

Yes, you can freeze the carrot cake bars. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

The cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze the frosting for up to 1 month.

Yes, you can make the bars without the brown butter. The brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with regular melted unsalted butter if preferred. The bars will still be delicious but with a slightly different taste.

Yes, you can add toasted walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the bars. Simply fold them into the batter along with the grated carrots. Just be sure not to overmix the batter after adding these ingredients.

If your carrot cake bars don't spring back when touched, they may need more time to bake. Check them with a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, they are done. If not, bake them for an additional 5 minutes, checking periodically.

Yes, you can use a different frosting if you prefer. A simple buttercream frosting or a tangy cream cheese frosting (without brown butter) can also be used. The bars will still be delicious with any frosting option.

For clean slices, refrigerate the frosted carrot cake bars for about 1 hour before cutting. The frosting will set up a bit, making it easier to slice into neat pieces. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to ensure clean edges.

Yes, you can double the recipe. If doubling, use a larger pan (such as a 9x13-inch baking dish) and adjust the baking time. Keep an eye on the bars as they bake and check for doneness by gently pressing the center to see if it springs back.

It is recommended to refrigerate the frosting until ready to use, as this helps it firm up and spread more easily on the bars. The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before use.

Comments

Deborah Hernandez

06/24/2023 08:47:28 PM

Oh my goodness, these treats are incredibly delicious! I followed your recipe to the letter, only opting to bake them in a 9x9 pan instead of making bars. I ended up with a double-layer carrot cake that tasted even better than anything from a store. Next time, I'm thinking of adding some chopped pecans for extra flavor. Despite my lack of confidence in baking pastries, this recipe turned out absolutely fantastic. Without a doubt, five stars!

Samuel Lewis

02/27/2024 07:00:43 AM

I followed the recipe exactly as written and the result was absolutely fantastic! Even the neighbors couldn't get enough of it!

Patrick Torres

08/01/2023 07:58:33 PM

Recently completed preparing these and they are absolutely delicious! Just like many others here, I followed the recipe precisely and wouldn't make any changes. They turned out excellent!

Larry Davis

02/26/2023 07:30:16 AM

I have finally discovered an amazing carrot cake recipe without any nuts, raisins, or pineapple. My children prefer a simple carrot cake, and this recipe is just fantastic! The cake is incredibly moist, and the spices have a lovely, gradual kick to them. The frosting is mouthwatering and perfectly balanced with the cake. I absolutely adore this carrot cake! Thank you so much, thank you!

Christopher Martinez

01/10/2025 10:40:06 AM

Tastes delicious but slightly too spongy for my liking.

Paul Johnson

02/22/2025 07:58:04 PM

"So delicious! Highly recommended!"

Heather Thompson

05/06/2024 11:23:00 PM

Oh my goodness! These are absolutely amazing! I will definitely be adding this recipe to my personal collection. They are so delicious.

Victoria Brown

12/04/2022 06:25:52 PM

Turned it into a cake! Absolutely adore the rich flavor of brown butter! Simply delicious! 😊

Patricia Edwards

04/14/2023 12:17:47 AM

Outstanding! I followed the recipe precisely without making any alterations. Although the brown butter required more time to cook, the end result was incredible, and the aroma was heavenly. This recipe is definitely worth keeping.

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Carrot Cake Bars Recipe