Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add the Carrots and Pineapple: Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and walnuts (if using).

Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Add the Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.

Frost the Bars: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled carrot cake bars and cut into squares to serve.

Serving and Storage Tips: