Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are soft, moist dessert bars infused with warm spices, shredded carrots, and a luscious layer of smooth cream cheese frosting. These bars offer all the flavors of traditional carrot cake in a quick, easy-to-serve form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easier and faster than making a layered carrot cake.
Moist, tender texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
Rich cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, creamy contrast.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or afternoon snacks.
Stores and transports well—ideal for make-ahead desserts.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the carrot cake bars:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Eggs
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Vanilla extract
Finely grated carrots
Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins

For the cream cheese frosting:

Cream cheese (softened)
Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Optional: a pinch of salt or lemon zest for added flavor

directions

Preheat oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large bowl, mix eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir in the grated carrots.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fold in nuts or raisins if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until creamy.
Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–16 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Pineapple carrot bars: Add crushed pineapple for extra moisture and sweetness.
Spiced version: Include ground ginger or cloves for deeper flavor.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Vegan: Use flax eggs, dairy-free cream cheese, and plant-based butter.
Frosting alternative: Top with whipped cream cheese or a light glaze if preferred.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze frosted or unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Not typically reheated. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best for moisture and texture. Pre-shredded carrots are often too dry and thick.

Can I make the bars ahead of time?

Yes, bake the bars a day in advance and frost just before serving for best results.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes, a simple vanilla glaze or whipped cream cheese frosting also works well.

Are these bars dense or fluffy?

They are moist and slightly dense like traditional carrot cake but with a tender crumb.

Can I skip the nuts or raisins?

Absolutely, they are optional and can be left out without affecting the structure.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking pan or bake in two separate pans. Adjust baking time accordingly.

How long do they last in the fridge?

They will keep well for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat flour for a denser, more wholesome bar.

Can I add coconut?

Yes, shredded coconut adds flavor and texture. Add ¼ to ½ cup to the batter.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, melted butter works well and adds richness, though oil typically yields a moister result.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that combines all the flavors of classic carrot cake in a compact, shareable form. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy dessert at home, these bars are a sweet and spiced favorite that never disappoints.