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Carrot Cake Bars with Cheesecake Swirl

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A tender carrot cake base meets a silky cheesecake ribbon in these delightful bars, perfect for any gathering.

  • Author: daniel-kim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9 squares 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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 and squeezed lightly
  • 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. 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 and glossy.
  4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt, stirring until just combined.
  5. Gently fold in the shredded carrots.
  6. Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the egg yolk and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined.
  8. Spread half of the carrot batter evenly 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 mixture on top.
  10. Use a knife to swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled pattern.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  12. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and egg yolk for a smooth cheesecake layer. Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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