Description
These Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines moist, spiced carrot cake with a creamy, tangy cream cheese layer. Perfect for a snack or a sweet ending to any meal, these bars offer a wonderful twist on traditional carrot cake in an easy-to-make, portable form.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrot Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Cream Cheese Layer
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Make the carrot cake batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine dry ingredients and carrots: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and fold in the shredded carrots until evenly incorporated.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Assemble the bars: Pour half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over this layer. Then, dollop the remaining carrot batter on top and gently swirl it into the cream cheese layer using a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the bars comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 bars.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the carrot batter for added texture if desired.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These bars can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Use freshly shredded carrots for the best texture and flavor.
