Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe
Ingredients
For the Carrot Bars:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) grated carrots
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Maple Frosting:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bars:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch (23x23cm) baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and nuts (if using).
2. Bake the Bars:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Maple Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until creamy and spreadable.
4. Frost and Serve:
- Spread the maple frosting evenly over the cooled carrot bars.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Enjoy these moist carrot bars topped with luscious maple frosting!