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Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting


Description

Hello, dear readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a mouth-watering recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delightful treat for a family gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to hit the spot.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  • Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts.
  • Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  • Make the Frosting: To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until creamy and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Cut into bars and garnish with additional chopped walnuts, if desired.

Notes

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
  • Drain the Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.