Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting and Pecans

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
• 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moistness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

Instructions

 Prepare the Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

 Mix Wet Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil until smooth.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in vanilla extract.

 Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

 Combine:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Fold in grated carrots, pecans, and pineapple (if using).

 Bake:

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

 Make the Frosting:

• In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
• Stir in vanilla extract.

 Frost and Garnish:

• Spread frosting evenly over cooled carrot cake bars.
• Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for crunch and visual appeal.
• Chill for 20–30 minutes for easier slicing.

 Serve:

• Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Methods & Tips

• Grating the carrots finely ensures even moisture and prevents a gritty texture.
• Optional pineapple adds a tropical sweetness and extra moisture.
• Cooling completely before frosting prevents the cream cheese from melting.
• Make-ahead: These bars taste even better the next day after flavors meld.