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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Delicious Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars for Easy Indulgence

Irresistibly Indulgent Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars offer a delicious twist on classic dessert with a creamy texture and a blend of warm spices.
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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: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • ½ cup light brown sugar Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt Enhances overall flavor
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Provides warmth and depth
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Gives structure
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds cozy spice notes
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg Infuses earthy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures light texture
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter Contributes to tender crumb
  • 1 cup freshly grated carrots Adds moisture and nutrition
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened) Provides creamy swirl
  • 1 large egg yolk Adds richness
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar Sweetens the mixture

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with non-stick foil and cooking spray.
  2. Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds, then let cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg, and gently stir into the wet mixture.
  5. Fold in 1 cup of freshly grated carrots until evenly distributed.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg yolk, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  7. Pour the carrot batter into the prepared pan, dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, and swirl gently.
  8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 510IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use freshly grated carrots for the best flavor and moisture. Avoid overmixing for a light texture. Check for doneness early to prevent overbaking.

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