Description
These Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are a plant-based, healthier version of the classic carrot cake. Packed with warm spices, shredded carrots, and a touch of natural sweetness, they make the perfect snack or dessert, and can be easily customized with optional mix-ins like nuts or raisins.
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)
Instructions
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.
Notes
- If you want a richer flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cloves for a more aromatic twist.
- To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Feel free to add 1/2 cup of raisins, pineapple, or shredded coconut for additional flavor and moisture.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the coconut sugar or maple syrup by 2 tablespoons.
- For an oil-free version, replace the oil with more applesauce or mashed banana.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
