Are you ready to indulge in a delicious treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals? Say hello to these Healthy Carrot Cake Bars! Bursting with the natural sweetness of carrots, wholesome oats, and a hint of warm spices, these bars are not just a guilt-free dessert; they're a nutritious snack you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your health in check. Read on to discover how to whip up this delectable recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, oats, honey (or maple syrup), and applesauce. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mixture. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- If using walnuts, fold them into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly spread.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth top.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 even bars and serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Grate Your Carrots Finely: For the best texture, make sure to grate your carrots finely. This will help them blend seamlessly into the batter and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Choose the Right Sweetener: You can customize the sweetness of your bars by choosing between honey or maple syrup. Both options provide a different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and see which one you prefer!
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining the ingredients, be sure to mix them thoroughly to ensure that the spices and sweeteners are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bars at the 25-minute mark. The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This will help them set properly and make it easier to cut into neat squares.
- Store Properly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
