Description
Delicious and wholesome carrot cake bars made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, topped with a creamy coconut cream frosting. Perfect for a healthy snack or dessert, these bars combine warm cinnamon spice with the natural sweetness of carrots and maple syrup, offering a nutritious treat that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
- 1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
- Add walnuts (optional): Fold in the chopped walnuts gently if you choose to include them for added crunch and flavor.
- Spread batter into pan: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Prepare frosting: While the bars are baking, whisk together coconut cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth frosting.
- Cool the bars: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt when applied.
- Frost and serve: Spread the prepared coconut cream frosting evenly over the cooled bars, then slice into 9 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- Walnuts are optional, but they add a nice crunch and extra nutrients.
- Ensure bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
