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Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting offer the perfect balance of moist, flavorful cake and rich, creamy frosting in a convenient, easy-to-serve bar format. A quick and simple alternative to traditional carrot cake, these bars are made with grated carrots, pineapple, coconut, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, making them a crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1¼ cups unsweetened applesauce or oil

2 cups sugar

3 eggs

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups flour

1 tsp baking soda

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

Other Ingredients:

2 cups grated carrots

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup crushed pineapple (not drained; use pineapple in juice, not syrup)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

½ cup butter, softened

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 lb powdered sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce (or oil), sugar, and eggs. Mix well until combined.

  • In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.

  • Stir in grated carrots, coconut, nuts (if using), vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple.

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out.

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely.

  • While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat together butter and cream cheese until fluffy, then add vanilla and powdered sugar. Continue beating until smooth.

  • Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.

  • Cut into 36 bars and serve!

Notes

  • Variations: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture. For a unique twist, mix cinnamon or maple syrup into the frosting.

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 2-3 months.

  • Healthier Option: Substitute part of the sugar with honey and use whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/carrot-cake-bars-with-cream-cheese-frosting/