Carrot Cake Cookies

Name: Carrot Cake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup (100 g) grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots); 1/2 cup (50 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1/2 cup (60 g) raisins (optional); For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):; 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

March 2, 2025

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Carrot Cake Cookies are an exciting and delicious treat that brings the classic flavors of carrot cake right into cookie form. These delightful little bites are soft, chewy, and full of vibrant flavor. Imagine biting into a cookie that has the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the natural sweetness of grated carrots. Not only do they satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also sneak in some veggies, making them feel a bit healthier too. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking for a tasty snack, these cookies are perfect for any moment. Plus, they’re so easy to make! So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on these delightful Carrot Cake Cookies.

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Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Cookies

There are so many reasons to love Carrot Cake Cookies! Firstly, they offer a delightful twist on the traditional dessert we all know and adore. Unlike a heavy slice of cake, these cookies have a lightness that makes them perfect for snacking. You’ll find them perfectly soft and chewy, with a burst of flavor in every bite.

Secondly, they are incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you’ll feel like a pro whipping up these treats. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, these cookies are versatile and can satisfy any sweet tooth. And the best part? You get to incorporate veggies into your snack! Who knew that a cookie could be this fun and a little healthier?

What is a Carrot Cake Cookies

Carrot Cake Cookies are scrumptious cookies inspired by the classic carrot cake. They feature the familiar flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, all brought together with freshly grated carrots. What sets them apart is their delightful soft texture, making them perfect for dunking in milk or coffee.

Additionally, these cookies are often topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, which makes them utterly irresistible. You’ll find that the creamy frosting adds just the right touch of sweetness to complement the spiced cookies underneath. It’s like enjoying two desserts in one bite!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup (100 g) grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
1/2 cup (50 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup (60 g) raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):

4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar

How to Make Carrot Cake Cookies

Creaming the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming the softened butter with both the granulated sugar and light brown sugar in a large bowl. You want this mixture to become light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it introduces air into your dough, leading to soft cookies.

Adding Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This simple addition enriches the cookie mixture, making it even more flavorful.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are well-mixed and will blend smoothly into your wet mixture.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want your cookies to remain tender and soft.

Incorporating Carrots and Nuts

Now it’s time to fold in the grated carrots. If you choose, add the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins at this point. These ingredients bring added texture and flavor to your cookies.

Chilling the Dough

A helpful tip is to chill your cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows it to firm up, helping your cookies maintain their shape as they bake.

Baking the Cookies

When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they start to turn golden around the edges.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Frosting the Cookies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. This frosty finish adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Carrot Cake Cookies warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a comforting cup of coffee or herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Sharing them with friends is a great idea too!

Tips for Success

To ensure that you achieve the best flavor and texture, use fresh carrots. Also, feel free to adjust the spices according to your personal taste. Remember not to skip chilling the dough; this is a key step in enhancing your cookie’s quality.

Variations

If you want to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. You can also substitute coconut for raisins or use different nuts to vary the flavor and texture. Each variation offers a unique and delicious experience.

Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like to make them ahead of time, freeze cookies without frosting, and just thaw them before serving.

Pairing Ideas

These delicious cookies go wonderfully alongside a glass of milk or a cup of herbal tea. For a more decadent dessert, consider serving them with a scoop of ice cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but the cookies might be denser.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend will work well for a gluten-free version.

3. How long do the cookies last?
When stored properly, they can last up to one week at room temperature.

4. Can I omit the nuts and raisins?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to omit any ingredients that you don’t prefer.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover frosting?
Store any leftover frosting in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.

Making Carrot Cake Cookies is not just enjoyable but also rewarding. With their mouthwatering taste and soft texture, they bring the beloved flavors of carrot cake into a convenient form. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try? You won’t regret it!

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Carrot Cake Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Cookies

What is a Carrot Cake Cookies