Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or half whole wheat)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter/applesauce)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl until well combined.
- Beat the eggs with the oil and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until blended.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded carrots and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before frosting.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Frost the cooled bars, cut them into squares, and serve.
Notes
For a healthier option, substitute unsweetened applesauce for oil and reduced-fat cream cheese for the frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian