Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
  2.5 cup all-purpose flour
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  2.5 cup all-purpose flour
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans (if using).
  2.5 cup all-purpose flour
• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
• While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  2.5 cup all-purpose flour
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and fluffy.
  2.5 cup all-purpose flour
• Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake bars.
• Cut into bars and serve.