Prepare to enjoy these scrumptious Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting, a delightful dessert that combines the wholesome flavors of carrots and warm spices with a creamy maple-infused frosting! These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day. They’re easy to make and are sure to be a hit with everyone!
With their moist texture and sweet frosting, these Carrot Bars are a must-try for carrot cake lovers. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Resume of the Recipe
Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting feature a soft and spiced carrot cake base topped with a luscious maple frosting. They are quick to prepare and provide a wonderful balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for more!
Exciting Story:
I first made these Carrot Bars for a spring picnic, wanting to create a dessert that was both delicious and easy to transport. The idea of combining moist carrots with a sweet maple frosting was irresistible, and I couldn’t wait to see how they would turn out. As I mixed the batter and prepared the frosting, the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled my kitchen, making everyone eager to taste.
When I served the bars, they were an instant hit! The combination of spiced carrot flavor and sweet maple frosting created a delightful experience, and everyone raved about them. Since that day, these bars have become a go-to recipe in my household, always bringing smiles and satisfaction!
Why These Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting are a Must-Try
- Deliciously Spiced: The combination of warm spices and fresh carrots creates a comforting flavor.
- Moist and Tender: These bars are incredibly soft and moist, making them a pleasure to eat.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up these bars quickly!
How to Make Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
Prepare the Carrot Bars:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and grated carrots until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Maple Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
Frost the Bars:
Once the carrot bars have cooled completely, spread the maple frosting evenly over the top.
Serve:
Slice into bars and enjoy your Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting!
Tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth frosting.
- Grate the carrots finely for better texture in the bars.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Reduce the sugar to 1 1/2 cups for a lighter dessert.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting for a lighter option.
Closing
And there you have it! These Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting are a delicious and satisfying treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to let us know how your bars turn out, and check out some of our other delightful recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, they can be made a day ahead; just store them in the refrigerator. - How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before serving. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Dairy-free cream cheese or whipped coconut cream can be used as a substitute. - How do I know when the bars are done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs. - Can I add raisins to the batter?
Yes! Raisins can add a nice texture and sweetness. - What’s the best way to serve these bars?
Serve them chilled for a refreshing dessert or snack. - Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes! Almond extract can add a nice touch of flavor. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the batter for extra warmth. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
These bars are best enjoyed cold; there’s no need to reheat. - Can I use different types of nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds can also be used. - How do I achieve the best flavor?
Use fresh ingredients, especially for the carrots and maple syrup!
Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Carrot Bars:
2 cups 2 all-purpose flour
2 cups 2 granulated sugar
1 tsp 1 baking powder
1/2 tsp 1/2 baking soda
1/2 tsp 1/2 salt
1 tsp 1 ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp 1/2 ground nutmeg
1/2 cup 1/2 vegetable oil
4 large 4 eggs
2 cups 2 grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots)
1/2 cup 1/2 chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Maple Frosting:
8 oz 8 cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup 1/4 unsalted butter, softened
2 cups 2 powdered sugar
1/4 cup 1/4 pure maple syrup
1 tsp 1 vanilla extract
Directions
- Prepare the Carrot Bars:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and grated carrots until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Maple Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
- Frost the Bars:
- Once the carrot bars have cooled completely, spread the maple frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve:
- Slice into bars and enjoy your Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting!
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