Easter Carrot Cake Blondie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Deliciously soft and chewy blondie bars infused with the classic flavors of carrot cake, topped with tangy cream cheese frosting—perfect for Easter celebrations.
Ingredients
Blondie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted Ensure it's melted for easy mixing.
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar Provides a rich flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for best flavor.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature Helps achieve a rich texture.
- 1 1/4 cups finely grated carrots Freshly grated for moisture.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Add warmth to the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Adds a nice spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts, optional Add for crunch.
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter, softened Must be softened for mixing.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For flavor enhancement.
- 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar Adjust for sweetness and consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk until well combined.
- Fold in the finely grated carrots.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- If desired, fold in the nuts.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frosting
- In a medium bowl, mix softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Blend in vanilla extract, then gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency.
Serving
- Once the blondies have cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Sprinkle with additional nuts if desired.
Notes
Serve at room temperature or chilled. Consider pairing with fresh fruit or a mixed berry compote for variety. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.