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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Delicious Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars Everyone Will Love

Enjoy these Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars combining comforting flavors with a creamy swirl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 9 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness. Substitution: Use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors. Note: Sea salt can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Brings warmth and depth. Optional: Use maple syrup for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structural integrity. Substitution: Use gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds cozy spice. Substitution: Pumpkin spice if preferred.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds earthiness. Optional: Omit for milder flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Ensures light texture. Note: Baking soda can be used, adjust amount.
  • 1 large egg Binds ingredients. Substitution: Use a flax egg for vegan version.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter Creates tender crumb. Substitution: Coconut oil for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup freshly grated carrots Adds moisture and nutrition. Note: Avoid pre-packaged shredded carrots.
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened) Provides creamy swirl. Substitution: Use dairy-free cream cheese for vegan option.
  • 1 large egg yolk Adds richness. Note: Omit for lighter option.
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar Sweetens cream cheese. Substitution: Use less sugar or sugar substitute.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Whisk
  • sifter
  • Microwave

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with non-stick foil, lightly spray with cooking spray.
  2. Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter until liquid and allow it to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Sift all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg into the wet mixture and stir gently until combined.
  5. Fold in freshly grated carrots until evenly incorporated into the batter.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, egg yolk, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  7. Pour the carrot batter into the prepared baking pan, dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, and swirl gently.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Use freshly grated carrots for better moisture and flavor. Be gentle while mixing to avoid dense bars. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, flavors improve after a day.

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