Description

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat, combining the sweetness of carrots and coconut, topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a quick dessert at home, they are easy to make and simply delicious!

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 (pecans optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, not drained! (use the pineapple in juice, not syrup)
½ cup salted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pound powdered sugar

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix the applesauce or oil and granulated sugar until combined.
Add the eggs, mixing well until the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the carrots, coconut, nuts (if using), and vanilla extract.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the bars cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars and cut into squares before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add nuts according to your preference.
Make sure to use crushed pineapple in juice for optimal sweetness.
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 230
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg