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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Delicious Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars for Cozy Nights

Delicious Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are a handheld twist on traditional carrot cake, perfect for cozy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter Ensure it’s softened but not too warm.
  • 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together and contributes to texture.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar Provides deep, caramel-like sweetness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt Essential for enhancing overall flavor in baking.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Gives structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Key to the cozy spice flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg Brings an earthy depth; freshly grated is best.
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Ensures a light and airy texture.
  • 1 cup freshly grated carrots Avoid pre-shredded for best results.
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 4 ounces softened cream cheese Offers a creamy, tangy swirl.
  • 1 large egg yolk Adds richness.
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar Substitute with a preferred sweetener if needed.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Knife

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.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until completely liquid and allow it to cool slightly.
  3. Whisk the melted butter with egg, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Sift flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the wet mixture and gently stir until combined.
  5. Carefully fold in the grated carrots using a spatula.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, egg yolk, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  7. Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared baking pan, dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, and swirl with a knife.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 105mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 220IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh carrots for the best moisture and sweetness. Cool completely for the best texture before slicing.

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