Name: Vegan Carrot Cake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-487087H29M56S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded carrots (about 2 medium-sized carrots); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy); 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are the ultimate treat for those who want a healthy, yet indulgent, dessert. The carrots add natural sweetness and moisture, while the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring the flavors of a traditional carrot cake into a simple bar form. Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to holiday gatherings, these bars are easy to make and taste absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

2 cups shredded carrots (about 2 medium-sized carrots)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut sugar, applesauce, plant-based milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the shredded carrots and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using).
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 bars
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Frosted Carrot Cake Bars: Top with a vegan cream cheese frosting or coconut whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.
Raisin Carrot Cake Bars: Add 1/2 cup of raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
Spicy Carrot Cake Bars: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for more warmth and depth of flavor.
Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Bars: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Coconut Carrot Cake Bars: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing: These bars freeze well! After they’ve cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of coconut sugar?

Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar with maple syrup, agave, or even white sugar, though the flavor may vary slightly.

2. Can I make these bars without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the nuts if you’re not a fan or have a nut allergy. The bars will still be delicious!

3. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use melted coconut oil, avocado oil, or any other neutral-flavored oil in place of vegetable oil.

4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these bars gluten-free.

5. Can I add other spices to these bars?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice for extra flavor. Experiment with your favorite warm spices!

6. Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Yes, you can use baby carrots; just make sure to grate them finely.

7. How do I prevent the bars from being too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and that the dry ingredients are well-incorporated into the wet ingredients without being overworked.

8. Can I add pineapple to these bars?

Yes, you can add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (drained) for extra moisture and flavor.

9. How can I make these bars oil-free?

You can replace the oil with additional applesauce or mashed banana for a healthier, oil-free option.

10. Can I make these bars in a larger pan?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

These Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are the perfect treat for anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based version of the classic carrot cake. They’re soft, moist, and packed with flavor, making them an ideal snack or dessert. Whether you keep them simple or top them with a creamy frosting, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection! Enjoy the rich flavor of autumn in every bite.