Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 cups grated carrots
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using), and beat until creamy and well blended.
Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories:
380
Fat:
20
Carbohydrates:
46
Protein:
4.5
Sodium:
220
Fiber:
2.5
Sugar:
32
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