Description
These Carrot Bars with Maple Frosting are a perfect blend of spiced carrot cake and smooth, sweet maple frosting. With a soft, moist texture and a delightful walnut crunch, these bars make for a cozy dessert that’s sure to please!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Carrot Bars:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the Maple Frosting:
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix together sugar, oil, and eggs until well blended. Stir in the flour mixture until just moistened. Fold in the carrots and walnuts.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting.
Maple Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Spread frosting over the cooled carrot bars.
Notes
- You can leave out the walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version, or substitute with other nuts like pecans.
- For extra flavor, try adding a few tablespoons of crushed pineapple to the batter.
- These bars can also be served without frosting for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes