Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting and Pecans

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting and Pecans

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a rich, comforting dessert that combines warm spices, tender carrot cake, and a smooth, creamy topping. Moist and flavorful, each bar is layered with luscious cream cheese frosting and finished with crunchy pecans for the perfect balance of texture and taste. This recipe is ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a classic dessert with a homemade touch. It delivers all the charm of traditional carrot cake in an easy-to-serve bar form.

Introduction

Carrot cake has long been loved for its moist crumb and comforting spices, and these bars capture everything people adore about the classic dessert. Freshly grated carrots add natural sweetness and softness, while cinnamon and vanilla bring warmth and depth. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious contrast, making every bite rich yet balanced. These bars are simple to prepare, bake beautifully, and slice cleanly, making them perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

For the carrot cake bars:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

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• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

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• 3/4 cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups finely grated carrots

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Topping:

• Chopped pecans for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.

5. Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans.

6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

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8. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

To prepare the frosting:

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.

3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

4. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for garnish.

Serving Suggestions

Slice these carrot cake bars into neat squares and serve at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Store leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and creamy.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a timeless dessert that brings warmth, sweetness, and comfort to any table. Moist, spiced cake combined with smooth frosting and crunchy pecans makes this recipe both satisfying and memorable. Whether baked for a celebration or a quiet treat at home, these bars are guaranteed to be enjoyed from the first bite to the last.