Introduction: Craving a delicious and easy-to-make dessert? Look no further than these Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! Packed with warm spices and topped with a creamy frosting, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
6. Spread cream cheese frosting over cooled carrot cake bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– Cholesterol: 40mg
– Sodium: 200mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 28g
– Protein: 3g
Popular questions:
1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts in this recipe?
– Yes, you can use pecans or almonds as an alternative to walnuts.
2. Can I substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter?
– Yes, you can use melted butter instead of vegetable oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
3. Can I refrigerate these bars after frosting them?
– Yes, you can refrigerate the bars after frosting, but make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
4. Can I make these bars ahead of time and freeze them?
– Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. Can I add shredded coconut to the batter for extra flavor?
– Yes, shredded coconut can be added for extra flavor and texture in the bars.
6. Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
– Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
7. Can I reduce the sugar in the cream cheese frosting?
– Yes, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting to suit your taste preferences.
8. Can I use light cream cheese and butter in the frosting?
– Yes, you can use light versions of cream cheese and butter for a lighter option.
9. Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
– Yes, you can omit the nuts if you have a nut allergy or prefer the bars without them.
10. Can I make these bars into cupcakes instead?
– Yes, you can portion the batter into cupcake liners and adjust the baking time accordingly for carrot cake cupcakes.
Helpful tips:
1. Grate carrots finely for a smoother texture in the bars.
2. Toast the chopped walnuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
3. Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smoother frosting consistency.
4. Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra spice in the bars.
5. Dust the bars with cinnamon or chopped nuts for presentation.
6. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. For a festive touch, top with edible flowers or orange zest.
8. Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
9. Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the bars for added decadence.
10. Serve bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
Expert Secrets:
1. Grate carrots by hand for the best texture, avoiding pre-packaged shredded carrots.
2. Use high-quality cream cheese for a creamier frosting.
3. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
4. Adjust the amount of cinnamon to suit your taste preference.
5. For a softer texture, reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness.
6. Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the frosting for a citrusy twist.
7. Experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
8. Dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant presentation.
9. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
10. Customize the frosting with a hint of lemon extract for a tangy flavor.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delectable Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!