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Carrot Cake Bars

Carrot Cake Bars

These Carrot Cake Bars redefine the standard for dense, spiced desserts with their superior moisture levels and bold flavor profile. The recipe is engineered for maximum efficiency and structural integrity, achieving a perfect balance of ginger, cinnamon, and fresh produce in every bite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 servings servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups finely grated fresh carrots (approximately 4 large carrots)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamo
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, full-fat and softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your square baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Grate your carrots finely using the box grater or food processor.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract last.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, folding in the grated carrots and toasted walnuts last.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, testing the center with a toothpick.
  7. Allow the base to cool completely for at least one hour before moving it to a wire rack.
  8. Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and frost the cooled base.
  9. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing into bars.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for optimal results. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.