Ultra-Moist Spiced Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Swirl
Introduction
These Carrot Cake Bars are the perfect blend of cozy spices, tender carrot‑infused batter, and a luscious cream cheese swirl baked right in. Think of them as a cross between classic carrot cake and cheesecake — moist, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy. They’re ideal for spring gatherings, Easter celebrations, or simply when you want a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients
Carrot Cake Batter
1 cup all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup finely grated carrots
½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (optional for extra moisture)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Cream Cheese Swirl
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8‑inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Prepare Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk sugars, oil, and eggs until smooth. Stir in grated carrots (and pineapple if using).
Combine Batter
Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Fold gently until just combined. Stir in nuts if desired.
Make Cream Cheese Swirl
Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until creamy.
Assemble Bars
Spread carrot cake batter into pan. Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife to swirl gently for a marbled effect.
Bake
Bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (avoid cream cheese pockets when testing).
Cool & Slice
Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Yield: 12–16 bars
Tips & Tricks
Extra moist: Pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Texture boost: Toast nuts before adding for crunch.
Perfect swirl: Don’t overmix cream cheese into batter — distinct ribbons look best.
Storage: Refrigerate bars in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Variations
Carrot Cake Blondies: Skip cream cheese swirl and add white chocolate chips.
Spiced Apple Carrot Bars: Replace pineapple with grated apple.
Glazed Finish: Drizzle with cream cheese glaze after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for a cheesecake‑like texture.
Pair with hot tea or coffee.
Dust with powdered sugar for a bakery‑style finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre‑shredded carrots?
A: Freshly grated carrots give better moisture and texture.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, bake in a 9×13‑inch pan and adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Absolutely — wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Conclusion
These Ultra‑Moist Spiced Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Swirl are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With their tender crumb, warm spices, and creamy swirl, they’re guaranteed to impress at any occasion.