How do I ensure my Bars come out moist and not dry?

To ensure moist Dessert Bars, don't overbake, and measure ingredients accurately. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry and wet ingredients are combined.

Can I freeze cake batter or dough for later use?

Yes, many cake batters and doughs freeze well. Freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature before baking. Note that freezing may affect the rising agent's effectiveness, so it's best with recipes that don't rely heavily on leavening for their structure.

Carrot Cake Bars with Easy Cream Cheese Frosting

Description

Indulge in the sweetness of this Carrot Cake Bars with Easy Cream Cheese Frosting recipe – a moist, spiced treat topped with a luscious layer of frosting, perfect for sharing and enjoying any time.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake Bars:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cups butter, melted but not hot
4 large eggs
2 cups grated carrots (about 3-4 medium carrots)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and baking soda. Make sure to break up any lumps of brown sugar.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the butter and eggs until well combined. Stir in the grated carrots, nuts (if using), and raisins (if using).
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
Pour into baking pan: Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, preferably at the very end of the 2 hours, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and smooth.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Allow to Cool: Cool in the refrigerator for a bit, but can serve immediately in a pinch
Cut into Bars and Serve: Cut the frosted cake into bars.

Notes

Make sure bars are cool before frosting
Softened butter and cream cheese are critical for making the frosting easy to make
You can use a mixer for the frosting, but it mixes easily by hand, as well.