Carrot Cake Bars

Carrot Cake Bars – Best Easy Dessert Recipe

by
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving the comfort of carrot cake without the hassle of baking an entire layer cake, these Carrot Cake Bars are the perfect solution. Incredibly moist, warmly spiced, and topped with silky cream cheese frosting, they come together effortlessly and deliver all the flavor of classic carrot cake in a convenient bar form. Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering, celebrating Easter, or just want a cozy treat for the weekend, these carrot cake bars are a must-try. Plus, they’re just as good for breakfast the next day with a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love These Carrot Cake Bars

These Carrot Cake Bars strike a perfect balance between convenience and indulgence. They’re soft, tender, and full of fresh grated carrots, with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adding depth and aroma. Unlike traditional layer cakes, these bars require minimal effort — no stacking or decorating, just a smooth spread of cream cheese frosting. Ideal for sharing or storing, they’re also easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts, raisins, or coconut. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple, forgiving, and reliably delicious.

What You’ll Need to Make Carrot Cake Bars

  • Avocado Oil: Adds moisture without a strong flavor; vegetable or canola oil also work
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness and structure
  • Brown Sugar: Deepens flavor with a hint of molasses
  • Eggs: Provide structure and richness
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base for a light, tender crumb
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds signature warmth
  • Ground Nutmeg: Contributes subtle spice
  • Ground Cloves: Offers a fragrant note that elevates the cake
  • Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Help the bars rise and stay fluffy
  • Fine Sea Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors
  • Freshly-Grated Carrots: Add moisture, texture, and natural sweetness
  • Optional Add-Ins (Pecans, Walnuts, Raisins, Coconut): Add crunch and variety
  • Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the rich, tangy frosting
  • Butter: Adds creaminess and flavor to the frosting
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting
  • Vanilla Extract (in frosting): Rounds out the creamy topping

Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ons You’ll Love

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and butter
  • Healthier Version: Try using applesauce for part of the oil or swap in white whole wheat flour
  • Nut-Free: Omit nuts or use sunflower seeds for a similar texture
  • Extra Flavor: Stir cinnamon or ginger into the frosting for added warmth

How to Make Carrot Cake Bars (Step-by-Step)

  1. Preheat and Prep
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients
    In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, whisking until fully combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, baking powder, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly distributed.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry
    Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until smooth and lump-free.
  5. Fold in Carrots (and Add-Ins)
    Gently fold in the grated carrots. If using nuts, raisins, or coconut, stir them in now.
  6. Bake
    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare the Frosting
    In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Frost and Serve
    Once the bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and enjoy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake Bars

  • Use Freshly Grated Carrots: Pre-shredded carrots tend to be dry and tough. Freshly grated carrots provide better moisture and texture.
  • Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, stir just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
  • Cool Completely Before Frosting: Warm bars can cause frosting to melt and slide.
  • Adjust Frosting Sweetness: Taste as you go — add more or less powdered sugar to suit your preference.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify after a day!

Serving Ideas and Creative Twists

  • Serve with: Hot tea, fresh coffee, or a glass of milk
  • Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or coconut on top of the frosting for crunch
  • Spicy Version: Add a dash of ginger to both batter and frosting for extra kick
  • Zesty Note: Add orange zest to the batter or frosting for brightness
  • Mini Bars: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats perfect for parties
  • Make-Ahead: Bake a day in advance and frost before serving to let flavors meld
  • Freezing Option: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months; thaw and frost when ready

Carrot Cake Bars: A Seasonal Favorite with Year-Round Appeal

While Carrot Cake Bars are especially popular around Easter and spring holidays, they’re truly a year-round delight. Their spiced aroma and rich frosting make them cozy enough for fall gatherings, yet light and fresh for warm-weather brunches. Plus, the use of carrots adds a nutritious twist that pairs beautifully with seasonal produce. Whether you’re hosting a holiday event or just baking up a comforting classic, these bars bring a little joy to every season.

Conclusion: Simple, Sweet, and Absolutely Irresistible

If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that delivers the comforting flavor of classic carrot cake, these Carrot Cake Bars are the perfect bake. With their moist crumb, fresh carrots, and rich cream cheese frosting, they’re a crowd-pleaser at any event — or a quiet treat for yourself. Customizable, easy to prepare, and freezer-friendly, this recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation all year round. Whether you’re making them for Easter brunch, a birthday party, or just to satisfy a weekday craving, these bars are a guaranteed hit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake Bars

How do I store carrot cake bars and how long do they last?

You can store carrot cake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture and flavor, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you need to store them longer, freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost when ready.

Can I make carrot cake bars without cream cheese frosting?

Yes, although the cream cheese frosting adds signature flavor, you can leave it off or substitute it with a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice or milk. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.

Can I make these carrot cake bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture will remain moist and tender, and the flavor will still shine through.

What’s the best way to shred carrots for this recipe?

For the moistest bars, use freshly grated carrots. A box grater or the shredding attachment on a food processor works well. Avoid pre-shredded carrots, as they’re often too dry and thick for baked goods.

More Relevant Recipes

  • Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: These moist banana bars are topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, offering a similar texture and flavor profile to carrot cake bars. They’re easy to make and perfect for any time you’re craving a sweet, spiced treat.
  • Gingerbread Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese: With warm spices and a soft, dense crumb, this gingerbread cake delivers seasonal flavors reminiscent of carrot cake. The cream cheese frosting ties it together beautifully.
  • Mandarin Orange Cake – Easy Recipe: Lightly spiced and citrus-forward, this cake offers a refreshing twist while keeping that moist, tender crumb found in carrot cake bars. A great alternative with a fruity flair.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Carrot Cake Bars

Carrot Cake Bars

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Elina
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9–12 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

These carrot cake bars are moist, tender, and loaded with warm spices and fresh grated carrots. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect easy dessert for any occasion, delivering all the cozy comfort of traditional carrot cake in a convenient bar form.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup avocado oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves
  • 8 ounces finely grated fresh carrots
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup raisins
  • 8 ounces (1 package) low-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (adjust for consistency)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, baking powder, nutmeg, and cloves.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  6. Fold in the grated carrots and any optional add-ins like nuts or raisins.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  10. In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Gradually mix in sifted powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
  12. Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top.
  13. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated carrots for best moisture and texture.
  • Cool the bars completely before frosting to avoid melting.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Frosting sweetness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing powdered sugar.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 29g
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star