Carrot Cake Bars Dessert (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Carrot Cake Bars

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp baking powder
03 - 1/2 tsp baking soda
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
07 - 1/4 tsp ground ginger
08 - 2 large eggs
09 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
11 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
12 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
13 - 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
14 - 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
15 - 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

16 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
17 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
18 - 1 cup powdered sugar
19 - 1 tsp vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the oil and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, the nuts and raisins.
05 - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
06 - In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy.
07 - Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars.
08 - Slice into squares and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

# Notes:

01 - For a healthier twist, substitute half the oil with applesauce and reduce the sugar slightly.
02 - Add shredded coconut or pineapple for a tropical flavor twist.
03 - These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator before frosting.