Carrot Cake Bars:
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (approximately 2-3 medium carrots)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– ½ cup raisins (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Instructions:
1. Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth. Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Add the carrots: Fold the grated carrots into the wet mixture. If desired, include the nuts or raisins at this stage.
5. Mix in the dry ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
7. Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy.
8. Frost and serve: Once the carrot cake bars have cooled, spread the frosting over the top. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
These bars are moist, delicious, and suitable for any occasion. I would be pleased to hear how they turn out!
