Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting

 

These Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting are moist, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy treat! The warm spices in the bars pair beautifully with the rich maple frosting.

Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting

Ingredients:

For the Carrot Bars:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup grated carrots
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Maple Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Make the Carrot Bars:

   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • In another bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
   • Fold in grated carrots and nuts.
   • Gently add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

3. Bake:

   • Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let cool completely before frosting.

4. Make the Maple Frosting:

   • Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
   • Add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla, mixing until creamy.

5. Assemble & Serve:

   • Spread frosting over cooled carrot bars.
   • Cut into squares and enjoy!

Would you like to add raisins or coconut for extra texture?