Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Rich, moist, and completely irresistible—these Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced cake bursting with shredded carrots, finely chopped nuts, and a touch of vanilla, topped with a thick, luscious layer of tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite melts in your mouth with a balance of warmth, sweetness, and just the right hint of spice.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dessert, a sweet brunch addition, or a standout party snack, these carrot cake bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crumbly golden topping adds a lovely texture, and the cream cheese layer brings that signature tangy finish we all crave. It’s comfort food in dessert form—easy to slice, easy to serve, and impossible to stop at just one.

Ingredients for Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the Carrot Cake Bars:

2 cups finely grated carrots
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Topping:

Reserved crumbled cake bits or extra chopped nuts for garnish

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This makes it easier to lift the bars out later for clean slicing.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be light and slightly frothy.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt directly into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix or the bars may turn dense.

Step 4: Fold in Carrots and Nuts

Using a spatula, fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using). The batter will be thick and textured, which is exactly what you want for those rich, dense bars.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fluffy and smooth.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle with crumbled cake bits or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Chill the frosted bars for 20–30 minutes for easier slicing. Cut into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature—either way, they’re absolutely divine.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Decadent Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days. If you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bars (frosted or unfrosted) by wrapping each piece in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a couple of hours.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 1 of 12 bars):

Calories: ~290
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 160mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these bars more moist?

Be sure not to overbake them, and use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture. You can also add a tablespoon of applesauce for extra softness.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best because pre-shredded ones tend to be drier and less flavorful.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s labeled for baking to ensure the best texture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You can try a simple vanilla glaze or a whipped coconut cream topping for a lighter option.

Can I add raisins or pineapple to the batter?

Absolutely. Fold in ¼ cup of raisins or crushed pineapple (well-drained) for a classic carrot cake twist.

Do the bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is recommended for freshness and food safety.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by about 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make these in advance?

You can bake the bars a day ahead and frost them just before serving, or frost and chill the full batch overnight.