Go Back

Easy Carrot Cake Bars

Easy Carrot Cake Bars are quick to make and feature soft cake, sweet spices, and creamy icing, perfect for a delightful treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • ⅔ cup melted butter Use unsalted butter for better flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar Packed brown sugar works best.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature eggs mix better.
  • 1 1/2 cups flour All-purpose flour is recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Freshly ground makes a difference.
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup carrots, shredded Use fresh carrots for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Plus ¼ cup for topping.
  • 1/2 cup coconut, shredded Optional ingredient.
  • 1/3 cup milk Whole milk recommended.
  • 1/2 cup raisins Optional ingredient.
Icing Ingredients
  • 4 oz cream cheese Softened.
  • 1/4 cup butter Softened.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups icing or powdered sugar Add ½ - 1 cup more if needed for desired thickness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and coat with nonstick spray. Set aside.
Mixing Batter
  1. In a large bowl, beat together the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs, then mix in the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Continue mixing until well blended.
  4. Fold in the shredded carrots, walnuts or pecans, and raisins (if using).
  5. Mix in the milk until fully incorporated.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the middle is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before icing.
Making the Icing
  1. In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk until thick and fluffy.
  2. Spread over the cooled carrot cake bars and sprinkle with additional walnuts or pecans.
Serving
  1. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Notes

Serve bars at room temperature for the best texture. You can also warm one slightly in the microwave for a soft bite.