If you have a soft spot for the luscious flavors of carrot cake but want something a bit more portable and fun to share, the Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine moist, warmly spiced carrot cake swirled with luscious cream cheese frosting and topped with a delicate crumbly crust, all baked into perfectly portioned bars. These bars marry classic comfort with convenience, making them ideal for everything from afternoon tea to potlucks or a cozy night in. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why these bars are such a beloved twist on a traditional dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in giving the bars their signature moistness, spice, and richness. From freshly grated carrots to a blend of warm spices, these essentials come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor you won’t soon forget.
- 2 cups grated carrots: Freshly grated for natural sweetness and vibrant texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the batter.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness with a clean flavor.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bars tender and moist without heaviness.
- 3 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a subtle lift paired with acidity from the carrots.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Classic warmth that makes carrot cake so irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A gentle hint of spice to deepen flavor complexity.
- 1/8 teaspoon clove: Just a whisper to enhance the spice profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): For that creamy, dreamy swirl that’s pure indulgence.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese frosting without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the cream cheese mixture with a smooth aroma.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb): Forms the base of the crumb topping for crunch and contrast.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crumb): Adds just the right sweetness and structure to the crumb.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for crumb): Binds the crumb topping with rich, buttery goodness.
How to Make Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper—this simple step ensures your bars come out in one perfect piece and makes cleanup a breeze. With your oven heating, you’re ready to dive into mixing your lovely batter.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is frothy and light, signaling the start of that wonderful rise. Adding the vegetable oil next dissolves the sugars and enriches the batter, ensuring every bite stays moist and tender.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and salt. This aromatic spice mix is what makes this recipe stand out, giving you the nostalgia of classic carrot cake but in a new form. Gradually fold this dry blend into the wet ingredients, making sure everything is fully incorporated but not overmixed. The key is a tender crumb.
Step 4: Add the Carrots
Gently fold the grated carrots into your batter until they are well distributed. The carrots bring natural sweetness, moisture, and that signature orange flecked texture that makes carrot cake so charming. You’ll be amazed at how this simple addition transforms the whole batter.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and lump-free. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until silky and creamy. This luscious cream cheese mixture is going to swirl beautifully through your bars, balancing sweet spice with tangy richness.
Step 6: Assemble the Bars
Pour the carrot cake batter evenly into your prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife or a skewer to create swirls by gently swirling the cream cheese into the carrot batter — or keep it simple and spread it evenly for a more uniform layer of creamy heaven.
Step 7: Add the Crumb Topping
Mix together the extra flour, granulated sugar, and melted butter until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle this crumbly topping generously over the surface. This final layer adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the moist cake and creamy filling.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs). The aroma alone will have you eagerly waiting to take these out!
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. This cooling step is crucial—it allows the cream cheese filling to set and makes slicing neat, beautiful bars that hold together well.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy accent that harmonizes with the crumb topping. A dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey can also elevate the presentation and flavor. Fresh grated carrot curls or a small dollop of whipped cream can add a charming touch.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee or spicy chai tea, making them a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. For a brunch crowd, serve alongside fresh fruit like berries or a citrus salad to add a bright, refreshing contrast to the warm spices.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress at a gathering, cut the bars into smaller bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter with edible flowers or mint sprigs. Layer them with dollops of extra cream cheese frosting or cream cheese dip for a more decadent dessert buffet option that invites guests to customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store the carrot cake cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, maintaining their moist texture and fresh flavor. Perfect for preparing ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars far in advance, freeze them after baking and cooling. Wrap individual bars tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy these bars warm, simply heat them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or place them in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Reheating enhances the cream cheese swirl’s melt-in-your-mouth charm without drying out the cake.
FAQs
Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?
Absolutely! While brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor, you can substitute with coconut sugar or a mix of white sugar and molasses to mimic that richness. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for stability. The bars may be a bit more delicate but still delicious.
How do I ensure the cream cheese swirl is smooth and doesn’t mix fully into the batter?
The key is to soften the cream cheese well before mixing with powdered sugar and vanilla, then gently dollop it over the batter without over-mixing. Swirling lightly with a knife creates that beautiful marbled effect.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the batter before baking adds great texture and flavor. Fold them in gently with the grated carrots for best distribution.
What’s the best way to cut neat bars without crumbling?
Make sure the bars have cooled completely to set. Using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts gives smooth edges. Chilling the bars for an hour before slicing can also help achieve cleaner cuts.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Recipe truly brings the best parts of a classic dessert into an easy, sliceable treat full of warmth, spice, and creamy indulgence. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or simply yourself, it’s guaranteed to become a fast favorite. So grab your grater and cream cheese, and get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty bars that deliver comfort with every bite!
Print
Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 15 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these moist and flavorful Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars, featuring freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a luscious cream cheese swirl topped with a buttery crumb. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at any time.
Ingredients
Carrot Cake Batter
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon clove
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture becomes frothy. Then add the vegetable oil and mix well to combine all wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
- Form Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter tender. Then, fold in the grated carrots evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble in Pan: Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect or spread it evenly if preferred.
- Make Crumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour and granulated sugar. Pour the melted unsalted butter over the dry ingredients and mix until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set fully before slicing into 15 bars for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese swirl.
- Grate fresh carrots finely for even distribution and moisture.
- The crumb topping can be omitted if you prefer a smoother top.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For easier slicing, chill bars before cutting.
