Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

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Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese layer and buttery streusel, these Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are everything you love about carrot cake but in a perfectly portioned bar form. Whether you’re baking for Easter, a spring brunch, or simply want a cozy sweet treat, these bars are a standout with their soft crumb and hint of crunch on top.

Unlike traditional carrot cake, these bars are easier to slice, serve, and store—ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or a grab-and-go treat. The cream cheese topping adds that tangy richness we crave, while the crumble and grated carrots offer beautiful texture and flavor in each bite.

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What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

For the smoothest, most luscious topping, stick with full-fat block cream cheese. Avoid the whipped or spreadable types from tubs, which tend to be too soft and can cause the topping to be runny or unstable. Let the cream cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing and a silky consistency.

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Ingredients for the Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Grated Carrots
The star ingredient adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a pleasant texture. Use freshly grated carrots for best results.

Brown Sugar
It deepens the flavor with warm molasses notes that pair beautifully with the spices.

Granulated Sugar
Helps balance the sweetness and structure in the cake base.

Vegetable Oil
Gives the bars their moist, tender crumb. You could use canola oil as an alternative.

Eggs
Provide structure and richness to the batter.

All-Purpose Flour
The sturdy base that holds everything together.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda
Together, these ensure the bars rise perfectly with just the right fluffiness.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg & Clove
A trio of cozy spices that elevate the carrot cake flavor to irresistible.

Salt
Balances out all the sweetness and highlights the flavors.

Cream Cheese
Used for the frosting layer. Its tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet carrot base.

Powdered Sugar
Gives the frosting a smooth, sweet finish.

Vanilla Extract
Adds depth and warmth to both the cake and frosting.

Crumb Topping (flour, butter, sugar)
The finishing touch: a golden, buttery layer that adds texture and a bit of crunch.

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How To Make the Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Carrot Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until light and frothy. Slowly add in the oil, continuing to mix until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mixture and fold until just combined. Stir in the grated carrots.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and lump-free.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour the carrot cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and use a knife to swirl it gently through the batter for a marbled effect or spread it evenly for a solid topping.

Step 5: Add Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbs form. Sprinkle generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

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How to Serve and Store These Bars

Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. The cream cheese layer sets beautifully when cold, making it easier to slice clean squares.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual bars tightly wrapped—they thaw well without losing texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How fine should I grate the carrots?

Use the small holes on a box grater for a finer texture that blends seamlessly into the batter.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

It’s not recommended. Pre-shredded carrots are often too dry and thick. Freshly grated gives better moisture and texture.

Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

How do I prevent the cream cheese topping from cracking?

Avoid overbaking and let the bars cool gradually. Using room temperature cream cheese also helps.

What other nuts or add-ins can I use?

Feel free to mix in chopped walnuts or raisins to the carrot base for extra flavor and texture.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If these Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars have won your heart, you’ll love exploring more rich and creative bar treats like:

• Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars with a soft green hue and nutty flavor.
• Blueberry Swirl Yogurt Bites that balance creamy and fruity in one bite.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding for a layered dessert that doubles down on comfort.
• No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies for a crunchy, nutty no-bake option.
• Oreo Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls if you want to push the indulgence even further.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you keep the swirl or spread the cream cheese evenly? Add nuts or raisins?

I love seeing your delicious spins on these bars. Questions? Tips? Drop them below or tag me on Pinterest at Life with Nina. Let’s inspire each other!

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