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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Deliciously Easy Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars to Savor

Savor irresistible Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars with a quick prep time and delightful flavors that blend sweet carrots and creamy swirls.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Base
  • 1 cup Light Brown Sugar Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds warmth and depth
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Provides structure
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Adds cozy spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds hint of earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensures light texture
  • 1 large Egg Binds ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Adds moisture
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Carrots Provides moisture and sweetness
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened) Creates creamy swirl
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Adds richness
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens cream cheese

Equipment

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

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with non-stick foil, lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
  2. Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute, then allow to cool slightly.
  3. Whisk in 1 large egg, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Sift in 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Stir gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in 1 cup freshly grated carrots until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 large egg yolk, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
  7. Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Swirl the cream cheese mixture over the top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until edges are light golden brown. Check doneness with a toothpick.
  9. Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, lift out of the pan, and cut into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Fresh ingredients matter: use firm carrots for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Flavors may improve over time.

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