Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe

Soft, chewy, and loaded with warm spices and shredded carrots, these Carrot Cake Cookies are the perfect sweet treat. Optionally, you can sandwich them with a creamy cream cheese filling for an extra indulgent dessert!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 18-24 cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (90g) finely grated carrots
  • ½ cup (50g) rolled oats
  • ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • ½ cup (75g) raisins (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Filling (Optional):

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
  1. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  3. Fold in the grated carrots, oats, nuts, and raisins (if using).

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

  1. Scoop tablespoons of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  2. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set.
  4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling (Optional)

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and well-combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches (Optional)

  1. Spread or pipe a layer of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
  2. Top with another cookie to form a sandwich.

Tips for Perfect Carrot Cake Cookies:

  • For softer cookies, underbake slightly and let them cool on the baking sheet.
  • Use freshly grated carrots for the best texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter cookie, skip the oats or reduce the amount.

Storage:

  • Cookies only: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • Sandwich cookies: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese filling.

These Carrot Cake Cookies are like your favorite carrot cake in handheld form—deliciously spiced and perfect for any occasion! 🥕🍪✨