If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, this Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is absolutely going to steal your heart. Imagine moist, warmly spiced carrot cake in convenient bars, topped with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter folded into silky cream cheese frosting. This recipe captures all the cozy comfort of traditional carrot cake but with the ease and fun of bars, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in a personal treat. Get ready to bring a new favorite to your dessert rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply but are essential to achieving that perfect balance of moistness, spice, and rich frosting in the Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each element plays a unique role, from the aromatic cinnamon to the juicy crushed pineapple that keeps the bars tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the classic texture of the cake bars.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings warm, comforting spice that defines carrot cake flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and earthiness to the spice blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise gently for a light crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Work together with the acids in the recipe to create perfect lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and contributes to moisture.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds rich molasses notes and helps keep the cake tender.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender without heaviness.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and give structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aromatic sweetness.
- 2 cups finely grated carrots: The star ingredient, giving natural sweetness, moisture, and texture.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple drained: Adds extra moisture and a subtle fruity tang.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Introduces crunch and toasty flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting): Browned for that irresistible nutty flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened: Creates the creamy base for the frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts frosting consistency for spreading.
How to Make Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This not only ensures non-stick bars but makes cleanup easier. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a consistent texture and spice in every bite.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients and Sugars
In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth and combined. The mix of white and brown sugar balances sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor. Next, add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated. This creates a rich, velvety base that holds the grated carrots beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Carrots, Pineapple, and Dry Ingredients
Fold the finely grated carrots and well-drained crushed pineapple gently into the wet mixture. These ingredients give the bars their signature moisture and subtle fruity brightness. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into this wet mixture just until combined — overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which you want to avoid. If you love a little crunch, stir in the chopped walnuts at this point.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth out the surface. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars will rise slightly and develop a golden crust on top. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting. Cooling is essential—frosting warm bars will cause it to melt and lose its signature texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully as it foams and then turns golden brown, releasing a delightful nutty aroma — this takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add the browned butter, mixing until combined. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy. Add milk by the tablespoon if the frosting feels too thick to spread easily.
Step 6: Frost and Slice
Spread the luscious browned butter cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars. The rich frosting creates the perfect balance to the warmly spiced cake beneath. Slice the whole sheet into 16 bars and get ready to indulge or share this delectable treat with friends and family.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming finishing touch, consider sprinkling chopped toasted walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting. A few shredded carrot curls or an edible flower also make these bars visually stunning when serving guests.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal accompaniment for breakfast or afternoon snack time. For a more indulgent pairing, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate your presentation, place the bars on a decorative wooden board or tiered cake stand. Layer individual bars in pretty cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go treats at parties. You can also drizzle a little extra browned butter over each bar just before serving for an elegant, glossy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, keep your carrot cake bars refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They will stay moist and delicious for up to four days — perfect for planning ahead for busy weeks or events.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars slightly warm, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature. You can also microwave a single bar for about 10 to 15 seconds to soften the frosting and warm the cake without melting the frosting completely.
FAQs
Can I make these carrot cake bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the walnuts for a nut-free version. The cake bars will still be wonderfully flavorful and moist thanks to the pineapple and browned butter frosting.
What if I don’t have crushed pineapple? Can I substitute it?
If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can try using applesauce or extra grated carrot for moisture, but the flavor will be slightly different. Pineapple adds a subtle tang and sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted for the frosting?
It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the frosting. If salted butter is your only option, reduce or skip adding extra salt to avoid an overly salty frosting.
Is it necessary to brown the butter for the frosting?
The browned butter adds a rich, nutty depth to the cream cheese frosting that’s truly special and elevates these bars above typical carrot cake. It’s worth the extra step for that unmistakable flavor.
How do I get the carrots finely grated? Should I use a food processor?
Finely grate carrots using the small holes of a box grater for the ideal texture. A food processor with a grating attachment works great too and saves time. Just be careful not to over-process into mush.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is such a joy to make and share. Every bite is bursting with tender, spiced cake balanced by the irresistibly rich frosting that has that one-of-a-kind browned butter goodness. Whether for a casual weekend dessert or a festive occasion, I hope you give this recipe a try and find it as comforting and delicious as I do. Happy baking!
Print
Carrot Cake Bars with Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and moist carrot cake bars topped with a rich browned butter cream cheese frosting. These easy-to-make sheet pan bars combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with grated carrots, pineapple, and optional walnuts, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
For the Carrot Cake Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Browned Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Add Carrots and Pineapple: Stir the finely grated carrots and drained crushed pineapple into the wet ingredients to add moisture and flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Add Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare Browned Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the slightly cooled browned butter and mix until fully incorporated. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk as needed to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the browned butter cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars using a spatula or knife.
- Serve: Slice the frosted bars into 16 squares and serve immediately, or store for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure the carrot cake bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- For enhanced flavor, toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the batter.
