Carrot Cake Bars
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute if preferred
1/2 cup vegetable oil or you can use melted butter for extra flavor
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups grated carrots about 2-3 medium carrots
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
1/2 cup raisins optional
For Cream Cheese Frosting optional but highly recommended:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350F 175C. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the grated carrots, and if using, add the walnuts or pecans and raisins.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For Frosting:
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Cut into bars and serve!