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Carrot Cake Bars with Cheesecake Swirl

Warm, tender, and gently spiced, these Carrot Cake Bars with a creamy cheesecake swirl combine cozy flavors in a delightful bar-style format.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shredded carrots, packed
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with nonstick spray.
  2. Whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until combined and glossy.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, stirring until just combined. Fold in the shredded carrots.
  5. Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  6. Spread half of the carrot batter into the prepared pan and dollop half of the cheesecake mixture over it.
  7. Layer the remaining carrot batter on top, then spoon the remaining cheesecake mixture across the top.
  8. Use a knife to gently swirl the batters together.
  9. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth texture. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: carrot cake, cheesecake swirl, dessert bars, baking, easy dessert