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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

These Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars combine everything you love about classic carrot cake with a rich cream cheese layer, making them a delightful, handheld dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Carrot Cake Batter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups finely shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional but highly recommended
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a larger bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in the finely shredded carrots and nuts, if using.
  6. In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla, and beat until creamy.
Assembly
  1. Spread the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan.
  2. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top and gently swirl with a knife.
Baking
  1. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
  2. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing.

Notes

For best results, finely shred your carrots and ensure your cream cheese is fully softened. Store bars in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.