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Carrot Cake Bars

Tender, moist cake infused with warm spice and dotted with sweet carrots, these Carrot Cake Bars are simple to make and a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups grated carrots Make sure they are not too watery; pat dry if needed.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour You can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a lighter taste.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 eggs Add one at a time, stirring well after each.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional for added crunch.
  • 1 cream cheese frosting Optional for topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
  5. Fold in the grated carrots and walnuts or pecans if using, until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Frost with cream cheese frosting if desired before serving.

Notes

These bars are best stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, allow to thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20-30 seconds.