Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

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Moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting, these Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars bring together everything you love about traditional carrot cake, but in an easy-to-share bar form. With flecks of shredded carrot, cozy cinnamon, and a buttery crumb topping, each bite melts with nostalgic, homemade comfort.

These bars are perfect for spring potlucks, Easter brunches, or simply a weeknight treat with your favorite cup of tea. Whether you serve them chilled or at room temp, they hold up beautifully and taste even better the next day. If you’re a fan of carrot cake but want a no-fuss way to enjoy it, this recipe will be your new go-to.

What Makes Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars So Special?

The magic lies in the balance—moist and slightly dense cake, smooth cream cheese frosting, and that irresistible crumb topping. Unlike layered cakes, bars are easier to portion and pack for picnics or gatherings. Plus, they offer the full carrot cake experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients for the Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Fresh Carrots – Grated finely for that classic carrot cake texture and a naturally sweet, earthy flavor.

Brown Sugar – Brings warmth and depth to the cake, helping it stay moist.

All-Purpose Flour – The sturdy base for both the cake and crumb topping.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Add cozy spice that pairs beautifully with the carrots.

Eggs – Essential for binding and structure.

Vegetable Oil – Keeps the bars ultra-moist without needing butter.

Cream Cheese – The rich, tangy layer that gives these bars their signature topping.

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake and frosting.

Butter – Used in the crumb topping for a golden, slightly crunchy finish.

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How To Make the Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the Carrot Cake Base

In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir in the grated carrots. Add flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Mix just until combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spoon dollops over the carrot batter and gently swirl it in with a knife or spatula.

Step 4: Add the Crumb Topping

Mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the top of the swirled batter.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

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How to Serve and Store Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars

These bars are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Serve them slightly chilled for a firmer texture, or let them sit at room temperature for a softer bite. Perfect with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.

To store, place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual bars wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What to Serve With Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars?

Creamy Cheesecake Fruit Salad

The cool, fruity balance pairs wonderfully with the warm spices in the bars.

Iced Chai Latte

Spiced and smooth, this drink enhances the flavor notes of the dessert.

Deviled Eggs

Great for brunch spreads—savory bites balance the sweet richness.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

For a heartier meal pairing, these bring an earthy, herbaceous contrast.

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Comfort meets comfort. This cozy combo is perfect for holiday tables.

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Want More Bar Dessert Ideas?

If you loved these Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars, don’t miss these other indulgent treats:

• Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies for a fruity twist.
• Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you love a buttery-sweet bite.
• German Chocolate Poke Cake for deep, rich layers.
• Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake if you’re craving something retro and bright.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a creamy, crowd-pleasing finale.

Save This Pin For Later

Pin this dessert to your favorite board so it’s easy to find when you’re in the mood for a sweet slice of cozy comfort.

Tried a variation? Maybe swapped the spice blend or tossed in some walnuts? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments!

Need more daily dessert inspiration? Check out my collection on Pinterest and discover new recipes every week from Savor Queen.

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