CARROT CAKE COOKIES
These soft, chewy carrot cake cookies are packed with spices, grated carrots, and a touch of cream cheese frosting. They make for a deliciously unique twist on the classic carrot cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots about 2 medium carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in grated carrots, oats, and nuts (if using).
Shape the Cookies:
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and mix until smooth.
Frost the Cookies:
- Once the cookies have cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting using a spoon or piping bag.
Notes
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the cookies before frosting for up to 1 month.
- Customizing the Flavor: Add raisins or shredded coconut to the dough for added texture. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack, dessert table, or as a gift during the holiday season.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.
- Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If frosted, keep them refrigerated.