Carrot Cake Bars With Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl & Orange Glaze

These aren’t your grandma’s carrot cake (though grandma would *love* them!). We’re taking all the cozy flavors of classic carrot cake – warm spices, sweet carrots, and a tangy cream cheese frosting – and transforming them into easy-to-slice, utterly irresistible bars. The addition of cardamom to the cream cheese swirl and a bright orange glaze elevates these bars to something truly special. Perfect for afternoon tea, a potluck, or simply a delightful treat with your coffee. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite!

What You’ll Need

• 200g (7oz) Finely Grated Carrots: Freshly grated carrots are key here! Avoid pre-shredded carrots as they tend to be dry. Grating them yourself ensures maximum moisture and flavor.
• 150g (1 cup) All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for our bars. Spoon and level the flour when measuring to avoid packing it in, which can result in dense bars.
• 100g (½ cup) Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 100g (½ cup) Packed Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contributes moisture, a subtle molasses flavor, and a lovely chewiness to the bars. Be sure to pack it firmly into the measuring cup.
• 1 tsp (5g) Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the bars rise and become light and fluffy.
• ½ tsp (2g) Baking Powder: Works in tandem with baking soda to provide extra lift and a tender texture.
• ¼ tsp (1g) Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp (2.5g) Ground Cinnamon: A classic spice in carrot cake, providing warmth and depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp (1g) Ground Nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon beautifully, adding a subtle nutty and aromatic note.
• 2 Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the richness and structure of the bars.
• 120ml (½ cup) Neutral Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bars moist and tender. Canola or sunflower oil work well.
• 1 tsp (5ml) Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• 150g (5.3oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: The base of our luscious cardamom swirl. Make sure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
• 60g (¼ cup) Unsalted Butter, Softened: Adds richness and flavor to the cream cheese swirl. Softened butter blends seamlessly for a smooth texture.
• 80g (⅔ cup) Powdered Sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese swirl and creates a light and airy texture.
• ½ tsp (1g) Ground Cardamom: This aromatic spice adds a unique and sophisticated flavor to the cream cheese swirl, complementing the carrots and cinnamon.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Fresh Orange Juice (for filling): Brightens the cream cheese swirl and adds a hint of citrusy freshness.
• Zest of 1 Orange (≈1 tsp): Intensifies the orange flavor and adds a vibrant aroma.
• 60g (½ cup) Powdered Sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth and glossy orange glaze.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Orange Juice (for glaze): Adds flavor and helps achieve the desired glaze consistency.
• 30g (¼ cup) Sliced Toasted Almonds, plus extra for garnish: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor.
• Pinch of Sea Salt (optional, for glaze): Balances the sweetness of the glaze and enhances the orange flavor.

Substitutions

Flour: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding.

Oil: Melted coconut oil can be used in place of vegetable oil, but it will impart a slight coconut flavor.

Cardamom: If you’re not a fan of cardamom, you can substitute it with an equal amount of ground ginger or allspice.

Baking the Bars to Golden Perfection: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures even baking. Line a 20x20cm (8×8-inch) square pan with parchment paper, allowing for an overhang. This overhang is crucial for easily lifting the baked bars out of the pan without breakage.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is vital for a consistent texture and flavor throughout the bars.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. This creates an emulsion that will bind the dry ingredients together. Then, gently stir in the grated carrots.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined. *Do not overmix!* Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough bars. A few streaks of flour are okay.
5. Reserve Batter: Set aside approximately one-third of the batter. This reserved portion will be used as a final layer on top, creating a beautiful contrast in texture and appearance.
6. Prepare the Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cardamom, orange juice, and orange zest. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. The cardamom and orange zest are key to the unique flavor profile of these bars.
7. Layer and Swirl: Spread the remaining carrot cake batter evenly into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cardamom cream cheese mixture over the batter. Using a knife or spatula, gently swirl the cream cheese mixture through the batter, creating marbled ribbons. Avoid over-swirling, as this can muddy the colors and flavors.
8. Top with Reserved Batter: Carefully spoon the reserved carrot cake batter over the swirled layer, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. This creates a beautiful, finished look.
9. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary.
10. Cool and Remove: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer to the wire rack and let cool completely before glazing.

The Magic of Cardamom: Why It Elevates Carrot Cake

While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic carrot cake spices, cardamom adds a sophisticated, floral warmth that truly elevates the flavor profile. Originating from India and Scandinavia, cardamom’s complex aroma complements the sweetness of the carrots and the tang of the cream cheese beautifully. It’s a secret ingredient that transforms a familiar treat into something truly special.

Creating the Perfect Orange Glaze: A Balance of Sweetness and Citrus

The orange glaze isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s a crucial component of the overall flavor experience. The bright, zesty orange cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and the sweetness of the cake, providing a refreshing counterpoint. Using fresh orange juice is essential for the best flavor – bottled juice simply doesn’t compare. A tiny pinch of sea salt in the glaze enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle complexity.

Toasting Almonds: Unlocking Maximum Flavor

Don’t skip toasting the almonds! Toasting brings out their natural oils, intensifying their nutty flavor and adding a delightful crunch. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, or in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Storing Your Carrot Cake Bars

These Carrot Cake Bars are best enjoyed within 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage. If refrigerating, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or raisins would all be delicious additions. Add about ½ cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter along with the carrots.

These Carrot Cake Bars with Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl & Orange Glaze are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can easily find it again when you’re ready to bake!

Carrot Cake Bars With Cardamom Cream Cheese Swirl & Orange Glaze

---

• Author: Amanda Miller
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Diet: General

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These carrot cake bars offer a delightful twist on a classic, featuring warm spices, sweet carrots, and a tangy cream cheese frosting with a hint of cardamom and a bright orange glaze. They’re easy to slice and perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g (7oz) Finely Grated Carrots: Freshly grated for maximum moisture.
• 150g (1 cup) All-Purpose Flour: Spoon and level for accurate measurement.
• 100g (½ cup) Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and tenderness.
• 100g (½ cup) Packed Light Brown Sugar: Contributes moisture and chewiness.
• 1 tsp (5g) Baking Soda: Leavening agent for a light texture.
• ½ tsp (2g) Baking Powder: Provides extra lift.
• ¼ tsp (1g) Salt: Enhances flavors.
• 1 tsp (2.5g) Ground Cinnamon: Classic carrot cake spice.
• ½ tsp (1g) Ground Nutmeg: Complements cinnamon with a nutty note.
• 2 Large Eggs: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• 120ml (½ cup) Neutral Vegetable Oil: Keeps bars moist.
• 1 tsp (5ml) Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
• 150g (5.3oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: Base for the cardamom swirl.
• 60g (¼ cup) Unsalted Butter, Softened: Adds richness to the swirl.
• 80g (⅔ cup) Powdered Sugar (for filling): Sweetens the swirl.
• ½ tsp (1g) Ground Cardamom: Unique aromatic spice for the swirl.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Orange Juice (for filling): Brightens the swirl.
• 1 tsp Orange Zest: Intensifies orange flavor.
• 60g (½ cup) Powdered Sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth glaze.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Orange Juice (for glaze): Adds flavor to the glaze.
• 30g (¼ cup) Sliced Toasted Almonds: Provides crunch and nutty flavor.
• Pinch Sea Salt (optional, for glaze): Balances glaze sweetness.

---

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 20x20cm (8×8-inch) pan with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat eggs, oil, and vanilla, then stir in carrots.
4. Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: Beat cream cheese and butter, then add powdered sugar, cardamom, orange juice, and zest.
6. Layer & Swirl: Spread batter, drop swirl mixture, and gently swirl.
7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool & Remove: Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then lift out and cool completely before glazing.

Notes

Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: carrot cake,bars,cardamom,orange,cream cheese,baking,dessert,spiced