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Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting and Walnut Topping Recipe

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4.4 from 1 review

Delicious and easy Carrot Cake Bars made with a Betty Crocker carrot cake mix, topped with a rich homemade cream cheese frosting and optional chopped walnuts for added crunch. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack that combines the moistness of carrot cake with the convenience of a simple cake mix.

  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Carrot Cake Bars

  • 1 box Betty Crocker carrot cake cake mix (15.25 ounces)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup salted butter, room temperature

Homemade Frosting

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray an 8x8-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Bar Dough: In a small bowl, combine the dry carrot cake mix, 4 ounces of cream cheese, egg, and 1/4 cup of salted butter. Mix thoroughly until a thick dough forms.
  3. Press and Bake: Press the thick batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 18 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely.
  4. Make the Frosting: Using an electric mixer, beat 6 tablespoons of salted butter and 4 ounces of cream cheese together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar in 1/2 cup increments on low speed until fully incorporated. Add 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract and beat on medium speed for an additional 3 minutes until creamy.
  5. Frost and Garnish: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled carrot cake bars. Sprinkle the optional chopped walnuts evenly over the top to add texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and a creamy texture.
  • The frosting can be adjusted in sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh. They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days.
  • Walnuts can be omitted or substituted with pecans or other nuts according to preference or allergy considerations.
  • For a richer flavor, you can toast the walnuts lightly before adding them as a topping.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/carrot-cake-bars-with-cream-cheese-frosting-and-walnut-topping-recipe/