Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: Moist, Spiced, and Perfectly Sweet

A tender spiced cake packed with carrots and pineapple, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting—these bars are pure comfort

Introduction: A Classic Dessert in Bar Form

Carrot cake is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. It’s warm, spiced, and comforting—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy afternoon treat. These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting take everything you love about traditional carrot cake and simplify it into a fuss-free, sliceable format that’s ideal for sharing.

With a moist crumb, a hint of pineapple for sweetness, and a rich cream cheese frosting, these bars are a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to bring joy in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so irresistible:

Dry Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
  Provides structure and a tender crumb.
• Baking powder (1½ tsp) + Baking soda (1 tsp)
  Helps the bars rise and stay light.
• Salt (½ tsp)
  Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and classic carrot cake flavor.
• Ground nutmeg (½ tsp)
  Deepens the spice profile.
• Ground ginger (½ tsp)
  Adds a subtle zing and complements the carrots.

Optional: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra depth.

Wet Ingredients:

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
  Adds richness and moisture.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup) + Brown sugar (½ cup)
  Sweetens and adds a hint of molasses flavor.
• Eggs (3 large)
  Bind the batter and add structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor.

Mix-Ins:

• Grated carrots (2 cups)
  Moist and naturally sweet—essential for carrot cake.
• Crushed pineapple (½ cup, drained)
  Adds moisture and a tropical twist.
• Chopped walnuts (½ cup, optional)
  Adds crunch and nutty flavor.

Optional: Use pecans or shredded coconut for variation.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
  Tangy and creamy—perfect for frosting.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup, softened)
  Adds richness and helps with texture.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups)
  Sweetens and creates a smooth finish.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds flavor and balances the tang.

Optional: Add a pinch of salt or lemon zest for brightness.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Grater for carrots
• Toothpick for testing doneness

Tip: Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner cuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.

Tip: Lightly flour the pan after greasing for extra non-stick protection.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:

• Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Set aside.

Optional: Sift the flour for a lighter texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:

• Beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

This creates a smooth base and helps incorporate air.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract.

Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Carrots, Pineapple, and Walnuts

Gently fold in:

• Grated carrots
• Drained crushed pineapple
• Chopped walnuts (if using)

Mix until evenly distributed.

Optional: Add raisins or shredded coconut for extra texture.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until:

• A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
• The top is golden and slightly springy

Let cool completely in the pan.

Tip: Cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl:

• Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

Mix until light, fluffy, and spreadable.

Optional: Chill frosting for 10 minutes before spreading.

Step 9: Frost and Slice

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars.

Cut into squares or rectangles.

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Yields:

• 12–16 bars, depending on size

Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Easter brunch
• Afternoon tea
• Bake sales
• Holiday dessert trays
• Weekday indulgence

Pair with:

• Hot coffee or chai
• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh fruit
• Sparkling cider

Tip: Serve on a vintage platter or cake stand for a charming presentation.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Tropical Carrot Bars

Add coconut flakes and swap walnuts for macadamia nuts.

Chocolate Chip Carrot Bars

Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, egg substitute, and dairy-free cream cheese.

Cupcake Format

Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

Citrus Twist

Add orange or lemon zest to the batter and frosting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Bake bars and store unfrosted for up to 2 days. Frost before serving.
• Refrigerate: Store frosted bars in airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Tip: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~15g
• Sugar: ~20g
• Sodium: ~180mg
• Fiber: ~2g

These bars are:

• Moist and spiced
• Easy to make
• Perfectly portioned
• Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of cozy flavors, nostalgic baking, and sweet simplicity. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a gathering, or just because, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy every craving.