Chef Mitchell preparing Carrot Cream Dessert Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with a classic carrot cake idea. After several trials, I perfected it into these bars that are easier to serve and just as delicious. The creamy frosting adds a wonderful touch that elevates the humble carrot to dessert status. Now, it's a family favorite that I enjoy sharing with friends."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience crafting delicious American desserts. He is known for his creative takes on traditional recipes, ensuring they are accessible and enjoyable for everyone. With numerous dessert recipes to his name, his expertise shines through in every creation.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Carrot Cream Dessert Bars served on a plate

Why This Carrot Cream Dessert Bars Recipe Works

This recipe works because it balances the natural sweetness of carrots with a creamy, tangy frosting. The combination of spices enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a delicious experience. The bars are moist yet firm, perfect for cutting and serving. It's a dessert that stands out while being simple to prepare.

The technique of creaming the butter and sugars ensures a light texture, while incorporating the dry ingredients carefully prevents overmixing. This results in perfectly baked bars that are neither too dense nor too crumbly. The addition of the cream cheese frosting is a game-changer, adding richness that complements the carrot flavors beautifully.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, be sure to use freshly grated carrots. Pre-packaged grated carrots may not have the same moisture content, which can affect the texture of the bars. Also, allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make Carrot Cream Dessert Bars ahead of time. They store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure they are covered tightly to maintain freshness. You can frost them right before serving if you prefer, which keeps the frosting looking fresh and appealing.

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you want a gluten-free option. Almond flour can also be used for a nutty flavor, but you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients since it absorbs more moisture. Always check the ratios as needed when substituting.

The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan slightly. If the top is golden brown, it’s a good sign that they’re ready.

Yes, you can freeze Carrot Cream Dessert Bars. After baking, allow them to cool completely and then cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Carrot Cream Dessert Bars pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added softness and creaminess. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance the flavors. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a wonderful afternoon treat.

In the fridge, Carrot Cream Dessert Bars last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture. If they start to dry out, adding a slice of bread in the container can help keep them moist.

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just bring it to room temperature before pouring it into the pan and baking. This can help save time on busy days.

To reheat Carrot Cream Dessert Bars, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds just until warm. Alternatively, you can use the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help retain their moisture and texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Carrot Cream Dessert Bars come out too dry, it could be due to overbaking or improper measuring of flour.

Solution: To remedy this in the future, make sure to check your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Also, consider weighing your flour for accuracy instead of using volume measurements.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the bars are not crispy enough on the edges, it may be due to the baking time or temperature.

Solution: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly. If your bars are still soft after baking, you can bake them a few minutes longer, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If your Carrot Cream Dessert Bars are overcooked, they might have a dry texture and a hard crust.

Prevention: To prevent this, always use a toothpick test and avoid opening the oven door too frequently while baking to ensure even cooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center may lead to a gooey texture that is not pleasant.

Recovery: To fix this, return the cake to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Cover the top with foil if it browns too quickly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior could be a result of too high of an oven temperature or baking too long.

Prevention: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate, and consider using an oven thermometer. Reduce the baking time if you notice the edges browning too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup next time.

Too Salty: If they taste too salty, check the salt content in both the batter and frosting to ensure proper measurements.

Bland: To fix bland bars, add a teaspoon more of spices or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Carrot Cream Dessert Bars

Essential Ingredients for Carrot Cream Dessert Bars

The key ingredients in Carrot Cream Dessert Bars are fresh carrots, which provide moisture and natural sweetness. Using high-quality cream cheese ensures a rich and creamy frosting that complements the bars perfectly. The mix of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds depth to the flavor, creating a deliciously aromatic dessert.

Selecting the best ingredients is crucial for achieving the best results. Freshly grated carrots enhance the texture, while room temperature butter and cream cheese blend more smoothly, resulting in a better overall consistency. Using organic sugar can elevate the taste, making your dessert even more delightful.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key for flavor and moisture. Opt for organic carrots when possible for the best taste. Shred them just before use to maintain their freshness.
  • Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the frosting to ensure creaminess. Allow it to soften at room temperature for smoother mixing. Low-fat versions can lead to a less creamy frosting.
  • Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and complexity to the bars. Always use freshly ground spices for the best flavor enhancement. Adjust the spices according to your preference for a personal touch.
Cooking process for Carrot Cream Dessert Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Carrot Cream Dessert Bars involves mixing wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This ensures that the batter is evenly mixed without overworking it, which keeps the bars light and fluffy. The baking time is crucial, so be attentive to avoid overcooking.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to detail. Measuring ingredients accurately is key, as is the temperature of your ingredients. Cool the bars completely before frosting for a neat finish and to prevent the frosting from melting.

Key Technique for Perfect Carrot Cream Dessert Bars

The key technique for perfect Carrot Cream Dessert Bars is to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter texture. Be careful not to overmix after adding the flour, as this can lead to dense bars.

Carrot Cream Dessert Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For a creamier frosting
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups grated carrots
    Freshly grated
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    Sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    For depth of flavor
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    Softened
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
    Softened
  • 2 large eggs
    Room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp baking powder
    To help rise
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    To help rise
  • 1/2 tsp salt
    To balance flavors
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
    For warmth
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
    For depth
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
    Optional, for crunch
  • 1/4 cup raisins
    Optional, for sweetness

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. Prepare the Batter

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time and stir in the vanilla.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined.

  4. Add Carrots and Nuts

    Fold in the grated carrots, walnuts, and raisins (if using) until evenly distributed.

  5. Pour into the Pan

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

  6. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

    While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

  8. Frost the Bars

    Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.

  9. Serve

    Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your Carrot Cream Dessert Bars!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store Carrot Cream Dessert Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap the bars individually and freeze. They can be reheated in the microwave or enjoyed cold.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carrot Cream Dessert Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect dessert experience.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with different add-ins like coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for a unique twist on these Carrot Cream Dessert Bars. You can also try a lemon frosting for a zesty flavor.