Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars
Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the best of cake and comfort food. With their sweet, moist texture and hints of cinnamon, these bars are perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to afternoon snacks. Topped with a simple, warm glaze, they make for a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s easy to make, even for beginners. The ingredients are simple and commonly found in most kitchens. Second, these bars are not just delicious; they are also packed with carrots, giving you a bit of nutrition along with your sweet treat. Finally, the warm glaze adds an irresistible touch that takes these bars to the next level, making them a hit at any party or gathering.
How to Make Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using). Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Stir in milk and vanilla; bring to a simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the warm glaze over the cooled cake bars and let set before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
How to Serve Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars
These bars are best served warm or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or rectangles, making them easy to grab and enjoy. They pair nicely with coffee or tea, making them perfect for an afternoon snack. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a tasty dessert.
How to Store Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars
To store these bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the bars in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to Make Honeybun Carrot Cake Bars
- Make sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid a dense cake.
- For extra flavor, consider adding raisins or coconut along with the carrots and pineapple.
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, as this will help create a smoother batter.
Variation
You can adjust this recipe by using different nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, or by swapping the pineapple for applesauce for a different flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You may want to combine it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them covered at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.
3. Is it necessary to add nuts to the recipe?
No, adding nuts is optional. You can enjoy these bars without them or replace them with chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.
