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Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars: A Sweet Slice of Happiness

Irresistibly indulgent Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars combine the comfort of carrot cake with a creamy cheesecake swirl.
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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 Batter
  • 1 cup Light Brown Sugar adds deep, caramel-like sweetness to the bars.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract brings warmth and depth to the batter.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour provides structure for the bars.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon adds cozy, warming spice to the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg contributes a hint of earthiness to balance the sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder ensures a light and airy texture.
  • 1 large Egg binds ingredients together, contributing to the overall texture.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter creates a tender crumb and rich flavor.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Carrots adds moisture and nutrition, enhancing the sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese provides a creamy, tangy swirl in the bars.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk adds richness to the cream cheese mixture.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar sweetens the cream cheese layer.

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Sifter

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 for easy removal.
  2. Melt unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 to 45 seconds and let it cool slightly.
  3. Whisk in the light brown sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract into the melted butter, followed by a large egg.
  4. Sift in all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg; gently stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in the freshly grated carrots until evenly distributed.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the egg yolk and granulated sugar until smooth.
  7. Pour the carrot batter into the prepared baking pan, dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, and swirl together.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  9. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 6IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use freshly grated carrots for maximum moisture. Avoid overmixing for a fluffy texture. Check for doneness a few minutes early, and cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

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