These Carrot Cake Cookies are the perfect blend of spiced sweetness and chewy texture, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With hints of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, each bite offers a comforting, fall-inspired flavor that will transport you to your favorite cozy moments.
These cookies are also incredibly versatile. You can add or subtract ingredients like raisins, walnuts, or even substitute the oats with coconut for an extra flair. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are bound to become a go-to dessert for any time of the year.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
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1/2 cup rolled oats
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
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1/4 cup raisins (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
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In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
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Stir in the grated carrots, oats, walnuts, and raisins (if using).
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Drop rounded tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are set.
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Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 170 kcal per cookie | Servings: 18 cookies
What Makes Carrot Cake Cookies So Special?
The allure of carrot cake has always been its combination of warm spices, the subtle sweetness of carrots, and the delicious cream cheese frosting that tops it all off. However, making a full-sized carrot cake can sometimes feel like too much effort. Carrot cake cookies take all the elements that make the original cake special and condense them into a much simpler, yet just as satisfying, treat.
The texture of these cookies is also a standout feature. They are soft, chewy, and moist—thanks to the grated carrots and the right balance of fat and moisture. Unlike many cookies that can become dry or overly crisp, carrot cake cookies maintain a chewy interior with a slight crispness on the edges, creating the perfect cookie texture. This makes them a perfect option for people who like cookies with a little more substance and flavor.
Health Benefits of Carrots in Cookies
Carrots are a well-known superfood packed with nutrients, and incorporating them into your baking brings some nutritional benefits to your sweet treat. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, immune health, and skin health. They also provide a healthy dose of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full for longer.
Although carrot cake cookies are still a dessert, adding carrots to the mix brings a little more nutritional value compared to other cookies. This makes them a great option for those looking to sneak some extra veggies into their diet without compromising on taste.
Customizing Carrot Cake Cookies
One of the best aspects of baking is the ability to make a recipe your own. While the classic carrot cake cookie calls for ingredients like walnuts and raisins, there are many variations you can try to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions.
If you’re looking to make the cookies a bit lighter, you can try using applesauce in place of some of the butter, or swap out the brown sugar for a healthier sweetener like maple syrup or honey. For those following a gluten-free diet, simply use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for your needs. You can also experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to add extra flavor and texture.
For a more decadent version, consider adding white chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top of the cookies once they’ve cooled. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing carrot cake cookies, and it’s a fun way to explore new flavor combinations.
Perfect Pairings for Carrot Cake Cookies
While carrot cake cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with the right beverage or additional treats can elevate the experience. These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, enhancing the spiced flavors and offering a cozy treat on a chilly day.
For a more indulgent pairing, you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, creating a dessert experience that combines warm and cold textures. They’re also delicious when served alongside a fruit compote or yogurt for a lighter snack that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
How to Store and Freeze Carrot Cake Cookies
One of the great things about carrot cake cookies is that they store really well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Once the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep them for even longer, freezing carrot cake cookies is a great option. To freeze them, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for an hour. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Frozen carrot cake cookies will last for up to 3 months, so you can always have a batch on hand whenever you’re craving something sweet.
To enjoy them, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that freshly baked taste.
Making Carrot Cake Cookies for Special Occasions
Carrot cake cookies are an excellent choice for various special occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, or a festive gathering during the holidays, these cookies are sure to impress guests.
For an extra touch of celebration, consider decorating your carrot cake cookies with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add an attractive finishing touch to your homemade cookies.
These cookies are perfect for potlucks, tea parties, and even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Their charming and rustic appearance makes them a crowd-pleasing treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Carrot Cake Cookies
Carrot cake cookies are an irresistible fusion of flavor, texture, and convenience. They take all the best parts of traditional carrot cake—the warm spices, the sweet carrots, and the soft, moist texture—and transform them into an easy-to-make, bite-sized dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just starting to experiment in the kitchen, these cookies are simple to prepare and offer a perfect balance of flavor and sweetness.
From their health benefits to their endless customization options, carrot cake cookies are a fun and creative way to enjoy the classic flavors of carrot cake without the hassle of a full-sized cake. The versatility of these cookies makes them suitable for any occasion, and their delightful flavor will make them a favorite in your baking repertoire. So, preheat your oven, grab some carrots, and get baking—you’re just a few steps away from enjoying these delicious, spiced treats!