Description

Moist, spiced, and irresistibly sweet, Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are the perfect treat when you’re craving an easy dessert that delivers bold flavor. With fresh grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and a lush cream cheese frosting, these bars combine the best parts of classic carrot cake in a simplified format. Perfect for those looking for easy recipes, quick dessert ideas, or a delicious twist on brunch favorites. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this easy recipe is ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a make-ahead snack.

Ingredients

2 cups finely grated carrots

1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs (room temperature)

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1/3 cup raisins (optional)

8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)

1/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Pinch of salt (for frosting)

2 tbsp brown sugar (optional topping)

2 tbsp finely grated carrots (optional topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with grease or parchment.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, white sugar, oil, yogurt, vanilla, and pineapple.

3. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

4. Add dry ingredients to wet and mix until just combined. Fold in carrots, and optional nuts or raisins.

5. Pour batter into the pan, smooth out evenly, and bake for 28–32 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Cool the cake completely in the pan.

7. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and salt. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.

8. Spread frosting on the cooled cake.

9. Mix brown sugar with grated carrots and sprinkle on top if using.

10. Chill bars before slicing for clean edges and serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Use fresh carrots for best texture and moisture—avoid pre-shredded.

For clean slices, chill the bars before cutting and wipe the knife between cuts.

The flavors deepen and improve the next day, making these ideal for make-ahead events.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 310
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: easy dessert, carrot cake bars, cream cheese frosting, quick recipes, brunch desserts, holiday treats