These Carrot Cake Cookies are soft, chewy, and full of warm spices. They have all the flavors of classic carrot cake but in a perfectly portioned cookie form. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they make for a delightful treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and helps create a tender texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and slight crispness.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Gives moisture and a slight caramelized flavor.
- 1 large egg – Binds the dough together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become soft.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds extra lift and lightness.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Warm and cozy spice that defines carrot cake.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Enhances the spice flavor.
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots) – Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and texture.
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
- ½ cup raisins (optional) – Classic carrot cake add-in for extra sweetness and chewiness.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the frosting, adding tangy richness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened – Helps make the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and structure.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the shredded carrots, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using).
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
Step 5: Frost & Enjoy!
- Once the cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top.
- Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon for decoration.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
For extra moisture: Add 1 tablespoon of applesauce or crushed pineapple to the dough for an even softer texture.
Skip the frosting? These cookies taste delicious plain or simply dusted with powdered sugar.
Want a deeper flavor? Toast the pecans or walnuts before adding them to the dough.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigeration: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Room Temperature: If unfrosted, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days.
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Freezing:
- Unfrosted cookies: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- Frosted cookies: Place parchment paper between layers and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
✔ All the flavors of carrot cake in a handheld treat
✔ Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced
✔ Easy to make & great for sharing
✔ Can be made with or without frosting
These Carrot Cake Cookies are the perfect balance of warm spices, sweet carrots, and creamy frosting. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because—everyone will love them!