There is something truly magical about a Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe that combines the moist, warmly spiced charm of classic carrot cake with the convenient, handheld delight of a cookie. These cookies capture all the beloved flavors you crave—tender shredded carrots, a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts—all wrapped into an irresistible bite-sized treat. Whether you are baking for a cozy afternoon snack, a tea party, or just because, this Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, staple ingredients is the secret to how this Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe comes together with such ease and wonderful flavor. Each element plays its own role, contributing to the perfect texture, sweetness, and spice balance that makes these cookies pop.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb to the cookies.
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats: Adds a lovely chewiness and hearty texture to every bite.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives deep sweetness and a slight molasses flavor that complements the spices.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and helps keep the cookies soft and moist.
- 1 large egg: Binds all ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots: The star ingredient, delivering natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and keeps them light.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm, aromatic spice that’s essential to carrot cake flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle complexity with its sweet and nutty notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional): Perfect for stirring into the batter for extra moistness or whipping up a dreamy frosting or filling.
How to Make Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once your dough is ready, baking will be consistent and efficient. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help the cookies bake evenly without fuss.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step introduces air into the dough, giving your cookies a soft, tender texture that’s so delightful.
Step 3: Add Egg, Carrots, and Cream Cheese
Beat in the egg until smooth, then stir in the finely shredded carrots along with the optional cream cheese. The carrots add moisture and a gentle sweetness, while the cream cheese enriches the dough, making the cookies irresistibly creamy.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Mix the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl. Then gradually stir this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, combining everything just until blended to keep the cookies tender without overworking the dough.
Step 5: Fold in Walnuts
Gently fold the chopped walnuts into the dough so they’re evenly distributed. These little nuggets of nutty goodness add delightful crunch and contrast to the soft cookie base.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Let the cookies rest on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooldown time helps the cookies set perfectly.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe, consider garnishing with a small dollop of cream cheese frosting or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar. Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts on top just before baking can also create an inviting, rustic look. These little touches make the cookies even more special and inviting to the eye.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee, creating a comforting afternoon ritual. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the richness, making for a well-rounded treat that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re bringing these cookies to a gathering, try stacking them neatly on a pretty platter tied with a simple ribbon for a charming gift-like presentation. You can also sandwich two cookies with cream cheese frosting for luscious mini carrot cake cookie sandwiches that are guaranteed to wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your carrot cake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them moist and preserves those lovely spices. Place a slice of bread inside the container to maintain softness—the cookies will soak up just the right amount of moisture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.
Reheating
To refresh your cookies, pop them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This warms them through and revives their soft, chewy texture, making each bite taste freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts for another nut or omit them entirely?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have allergies, pecans or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes. You can also leave the nuts out for a smoother cookie—just know that you’ll miss out on some of that crunchy contrast.
Is it necessary to include the cream cheese in the recipe?
The cream cheese is optional but highly recommended if you want extra moistness and richness in your cookies. It also pairs beautifully if you choose to frost or fill the cookies later. Without it, the cookies will still be delicious, just a bit less creamy.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. This tweak will keep the texture and flavor delightful while accommodating dietary needs.
How long can I keep the cookies before they start to lose flavor or texture?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy your carrot cake cookies within 4-5 days when stored properly. Beyond that, they might dry out or lose some freshness, but freezing can extend their life significantly.
Can I double the recipe and bake in batches?
Definitely! The dough stores well and baking in batches is an easy way to prepare a larger quantity for parties or gifting. Just keep in mind that dough containing cream cheese should be used within a day or so for best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe is truly a winner in my book—comforting, flavorful, and perfect for sharing or savoring any time you want a cozy, homemade treat. Give it a try, and I’m sure these cookies will become a delicious staple in your baking repertoire. Your friends and family will thank you for introducing such a charming, tasty twist on classic carrot cake!
Print
Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and flavorful Carrot Cake Cookies that combine the classic sweetness of carrot cake with the convenience of a cookie. These treats feature shredded carrots, oats, walnuts, and warm spices, baked to golden perfection. Optionally enhanced with cream cheese for extra richness, they make a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup finely shredded carrots
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened (optional for frosting or filling)
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for tender cookies.
- Add Egg and Carrots: Beat in the egg until fully combined, then mix in the finely shredded carrots and cream cheese if you choose to use it, adding moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the flour, oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep cookies tender.
- Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold the chopped walnuts into the dough to evenly distribute the nuts throughout.
- Portion the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes or until the edges turn a gentle golden brown, indicating doneness.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set properly.
Notes
- For a classic carrot cake flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of raisins or shredded coconut.
- The cream cheese is optional; omit it for a simpler cookie or incorporate it as a frosting or filling after baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To keep cookies soft longer, add a slice of bread in the storage container to retain moisture.
- Chopped walnuts can be substituted with pecans or omitted for a nut-free version.
