Description

These Carrot Cake Bars topped with Cream Cheese Frosting are a perfect sweet treat. Featuring shredded carrots, coconut, and nuts, they offer an irresistible flavor. Ideal for gatherings or as a comforting dessert, they’re simple to prepare and always a hit!

Ingredients

Scale

1¼ cups unsweetened applesauce or oil
2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups grated carrots, finely shredded
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup chopped nuts, optional (pecans suggested)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, not drained
½ cup salted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound powdered sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce or oil with granulated sugar and mix well.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, sea salt, and ground cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, if using, and vanilla extract.
Mix in the crushed pineapple, ensuring it is well incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and one teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and slice into squares to serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
These bars are perfect for parties and can be garnished with additional coconut if desired.
Feel free to substitute nuts with your favorite mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg