Carrot Cake Bars
User Reviews
4.5
Carrot Cake Bars
Description
The Carrot Cake Bars use a dry carrot cake mix combined with softened cream cheese, egg, and butter to create a thick batter. Pressed into an 8x8-inch pan and baked at 350°F for about 14-18 minutes, the bars become soft and slightly dense with a tender crumb. Baking times can be adjusted depending on the desired cakiness or firmness. Once cooled, the bars are topped with a classic cream cheese frosting made by whipping butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, then gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla. Chopped walnuts can be sprinkled on top to add texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
These bars streamline traditional carrot cake preparation, delivering the familiar carrot and spice flavors with a smooth, sweet cream cheese topping. Their soft yet sturdy texture makes them easy to serve for snacking or dessert without needing slicing like a traditional layer cake.
They are practical for gatherings or lunchboxes where individual servings are preferred. The recipe involves common pantry ingredients and a minimal frosting method, making it accessible for home bakers.
Ingredients
- 1 box carrot cake mix 15.25 ounces, Betty Crocker brand
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup butter softened
Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 6 tablespoons butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla
- 1/2 cup walnuts optional, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a small bowl, mix together the dry cake mix, cream cheese, egg and butter until completely mixed. The dough will be very thick.
- Press the dough into a greased 8x8 baking pan. Bake for 14-18 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool.
- For the frosting: Using an electric mixer, mix the butter and cream cheese, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 5 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar, 1/2 a cup at at time, until it is thoroughly mixed. Add the vanilla and beat the frosting on medium speed for about 3 minutes.
- Frost the carrot cake bars with the frosting and top with the chopped walnuts.
Notes
- Baking for exactly 14 minutes yields a very soft texture; extend baking by 3-4 minutes for a cakier result.
- Use softened cream cheese and butter to ensure the batter and frosting blend smoothly.
- The frosting is best made with an electric mixer on medium speed for fluffiness.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 412 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 96g | |
| Calories | 412kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 52g | 17% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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