01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with heavy-duty non-stick aluminum foil and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
02 -
Melt 0.5 cup unsalted butter in a large microwave-safe bowl for approximately 1 minute; allow to cool slightly.
03 -
Whisk in 1 large egg, 1 cup light brown sugar, 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well blended.
04 -
Sift in 1 cup all-purpose flour, 0.5 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; stir gently just until combined.
05 -
Fold in 1 cup freshly grated carrots until the batter is evenly mixed.
06 -
In a separate bowl, beat 4 ounces softened cream cheese with 1 large egg yolk and 0.5 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
07 -
Spread carrot batter in the prepared pan, then spoon and swirl the cream cheese mixture over the top.
08 -
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
09 -
Allow bars to cool in the pan at room temperature for at least 2 hours. Lift from the pan using foil and cut into squares.