Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are a delicious twist on the classic carrot cake, combining warm spices, tender grated carrots, and a smooth cream cheese layer in an easy-to-slice dessert. Instead of baking a traditional layered cake, these bars simplify the process while keeping all the comforting flavors people love. They are soft, slightly dense, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy.
Whether you’re baking for a gathering, preparing treats for the week, or simply craving something cozy and homemade, these bars offer an elegant dessert that feels both rustic and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love These Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars
These bars are popular because they bring together texture and flavor in every bite. The carrot cake base stays moist thanks to fresh carrots and butter, while the cream cheese topping adds a creamy contrast that melts into the surface as it bakes.
They are also:
- Easy to prepare in one pan
- Perfect for beginner bakers
- Full of warm cinnamon flavor
- Ideal for slicing and sharing
- Great for meal prep or dessert boxes
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 200 g cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides to make removal easier later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated and glossy.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars soft.
Step 4: Fold in the Carrots
Add the finely grated carrots and stir until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The mixture will be thick and slightly textured.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, then mix until silky.
Step 6: Assemble the Bars
Spread the carrot cake batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top in small dollops. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out mostly clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles for serving.
Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars
- Use freshly grated carrots instead of pre-shredded ones for better moisture and flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the bars dense.
- Let the bars cool fully before cutting to achieve clean slices.
- For extra texture, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual bars wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Serving Ideas
Serve these carrot cake cream cheese bars with coffee, tea, or a light fruit salad. For a more indulgent dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also make beautiful additions to brunch tables or holiday dessert trays.