Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These carrot cake bars are a unique blend of warm spices, fresh carrots, and a rich cream cheese swirl that takes them to the next level. Unlike traditional carrot cake topped with frosting, this recipe integrates the cheesecake directly into the bars, offering a creamy, decadent bite with every piece.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded carrots
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter with brown sugar. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, then fold in the shredded carrots.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy.
- Spread half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan. Dollop the cheesecake mixture on top and spread the remaining carrot cake batter over it.
- Use a skewer or knife to swirl the cream cheese into the carrot batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9 bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch to the bars.
- Frosting option: If you prefer a cream cheese frosting on top, feel free to add it after the bars have cooled.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed straight from the fridge or brought to room temperature for a softer texture.
FAQs
How long do carrot cake bars last?
These bars last for about 3-5 days when stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze carrot cake bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor, but you can substitute it with white sugar if needed.
What type of flour should I use for carrot cake bars?
All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Can I make these bars without the cheesecake swirl?
Yes, you can skip the cheesecake swirl for a simpler carrot cake bar, but the swirl adds a delicious creamy texture.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots?
Yes, pre-shredded carrots can be used for convenience, though fresh carrots are preferable for the best flavor.
Can I add raisins or coconut to the batter?
Absolutely! Raisins or shredded coconut can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the carrot cake bars are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bars are done.
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes, these carrot cake bars are kid-friendly and perfect for any family gathering.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the swirl?
While you can, full-fat cream cheese offers a creamier and richer texture, which is ideal for the swirl.
Conclusion
These carrot cake bars with a creamy cheesecake swirl are the perfect dessert for any occasion. With their moist, flavorful base and decadent swirl, they are sure to become a family favorite. Try them out and enjoy a delicious, easy-to-make treat!
Carrot Cake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Carrot Cake Bars are the perfect dessert for carrot cake lovers! These moist, spiced bars feature a creamy cheesecake swirl, offering a delicious twist on the traditional carrot cake. Ideal for holidays like Easter or any time you're craving a comforting dessert, these easy-to-make bars are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars:
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded carrots
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix melted butter with brown sugar. Stir in egg and vanilla extract.
- Add flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Fold in shredded carrots.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Spread half of the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan. Dollop cheesecake mixture on top and cover with the remaining carrot cake batter.
- Use a skewer or knife to swirl the cheesecake into the carrot batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Add-ins: Consider adding walnuts, pecans, raisins, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Frosting Option: If you like, you can top the bars with cream cheese frosting once they’ve cooled.
- Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free treat.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
