Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

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If you’re craving a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are perfect. Packed with shredded carrots, warm spices, and topped with a creamy vegan glaze, these bars are a delicious treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you want a sweet snack without eggs or dairy. Their rich texture and naturally sweet flavor make them a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike.

creation 2536937274 - Vegan Carrot Cake Bars

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup coconut oil or vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups finely shredded carrots
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)

Vegan Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp plant-based milk
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the oil and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and applesauce.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with plant-based milk, mixing until just combined.
  5. Fold in the shredded carrots carefully.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
  9. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with plant-based milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
  10. Slice into squares and serve. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
  • For more sweetness, include a handful of raisins or chopped dates.
  • Adjust the glaze thickness by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker topping or more milk for a thinner drizzle.
  • These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These Vegan Carrot Cake Bars are an easy, delicious, and wholesome treat that can satisfy any sweet tooth while staying completely plant-based. Moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, they are ideal for snack time, potlucks, or gifting. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a lighter, dairy-free dessert option, these carrot cake bars are sure to impress with their rich taste and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.