Introduction
Irresistibly Indulgent Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the warmth of spices and the sweetness of carrots and pineapple. These moist and flavorful bars topped with creamy frosting are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12-16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well.
- Add eggs to the sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Notes or Tips
- For a nutty twist, add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the light and fluffy treat you desire.
FAQ
- Can I substitute the oil for applesauce? Yes, this will create a lighter version of the bars.
- Can I freeze these bars? Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months.
- What can I use instead of cream cheese? Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a tangy flavor.
Conclusion
These Irresistibly Indulgent Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet evenings at home. Enjoy every mouthful of this scrumptious dessert that embraces the sweetness of carrots and the lusciousness of cream cheese frosting. Happy baking!