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Carrot Cake Bars with Cheesecake Swirl

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Warm, tender bars featuring a spiced carrot layer with a creamy cheesecake swirl, perfect for afternoon tea or dessert.

Ingredients

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  • 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 and squeezed lightly to remove excess moisture
  • 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 lightly spray it with nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until combined.
  3. Add the large egg and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
  4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gently fold in the shredded carrots.
  6. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.
  7. Add the egg yolk and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and combine well.
  8. Spread half of the carrot batter into the prepared pan. Add spoonfuls of half the cheesecake mixture on top.
  9. Dollop the remaining carrot batter over the cheesecake, then add the remaining cheesecake on top.
  10. Use a knife to swirl the batters together.
  11. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  12. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container for freshness.

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