Craving something sweet, cozy, and just a little bit nostalgic? Carrot Cake Cookies might be your new go-to treat. They take everything you love about classic carrot cake—warm spices, soft texture, and that dreamy cream cheese frosting—and wrap it up in a handheld, cookie-sized delight. Whether it’s for Easter brunch, a fall afternoon snack, or just a cozy baking day, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
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Why Everyone’s Obsessed with Carrot Cake Cookies
There’s a reason carrot cake has stood the test of time, and turning it into cookies just makes sense. These little guys offer the soft chew of cake with the crisp edges of a cookie. And they’re super versatile—perfect for gifting, potlucks, or sneaking one in with your morning coffee. You can even sandwich them with cream cheese frosting, like a twist on our cookie cakes idea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bake your own batch of magic:
- Fresh carrots, finely grated (not pre-shredded!)
- All-purpose flour
- Brown sugar & white sugar
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of ginger
- Baking soda & salt
- Optional add-ins: raisins, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or white chocolate chips
Let’s Bake Some Cookies!
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Cream Butter & Sugars
Beat your butter and sugars until light and fluffy—this adds air for that perfect texture.
3. Add Eggs & Vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices together, then slowly mix into the wet ingredients.
5. Fold in Carrots & Add-ins
Gently stir in your grated carrots and whatever add-ins you love.
6. Scoop & Bake
Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto your tray, leaving room between each. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden.
7. Cool & Frost
Let cookies cool before frosting. You can even turn them into mini dessert sandwiches!
Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional but Highly Recommended)
This silky frosting takes your cookies over the top:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Beat until smooth and fluffy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cookies and refrigerate briefly before serving.
People Also Ask
How Do You Make Carrot Cake Cookies from Scratch?
Start with a standard cookie dough base—cream butter and sugars, add eggs and vanilla, then fold in spiced flour and freshly grated carrots. Add-ins like walnuts or raisins are optional but tasty! For detailed steps, check out our Carrot Cake Recipe for inspiration.
Can You Make Carrot Cake Cookies from Cake Mix?
Absolutely! Combine a box of carrot cake mix with 2 eggs and ½ cup of oil. Fold in extras like shredded carrots or chopped nuts. Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Simple and delicious!
Where Can I Buy Carrot Cake Cookies?
You might find them at local bakeries, farmer’s markets, or specialty food stores. Some online retailers like Etsy or Goldbelly even offer gourmet versions shipped to your door.
Are Carrot Cake Cookies Available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
They’ve been spotted at the Trolley Car Café, but availability can change. It’s best to check with the park’s current food offerings or on Disney fan forums.
What’s the Difference Between Carrot Cake and Carrot Cake Cookies?
Carrot cake is moist, sliceable, and layered, often topped with thick frosting. Carrot cake cookies are bite-sized, chewy, and portable—with a hint of crispiness on the edges. Like a fusion of cookie and cake!
Fun Twists to Try
Want to get creative? Here are some ideas:
- Sandwich Cookies: Fill with cream cheese frosting for a treat similar to cookie cakes.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs and vegan butter.
- Gluten-Free: Try almond flour or a GF blend—like we used in our best gluten-free bread guide.
- Tropical Vibe: Add coconut for extra texture.
- White Chocolate Chips: Creamy bursts in every bite!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Don’t overmix your dough.
- Always use freshly grated carrots.
- Chill the dough if it feels too soft.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
- Underbake slightly for chewy centers.
Storage & Freezing
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days. Planning ahead? Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months, then frost when you’re ready to serve.
Related Recipes You Might Love
- Carrot Cake Recipe – the inspiration behind these cookies!
- Hot Fudge Brownie Bread – a rich, chocolatey loaf you’ll adore.
- Double Chocolate Banana Bread – perfect for cozy mornings.
- Cookie Cakes – for another fun dessert spin.
- Butterscotch Candy – for something buttery and nostalgic.
Conclusion: You’ve Got to Try These
If you haven’t made Carrot Cake Cookies yet, it’s time. They’re simple to whip up, fun to customize, and seriously addicting. Whether you go traditional with frosting or add a modern twist, they’re bound to become a new favorite. And hey, maybe pair one with a cup of light roast coffee for the ultimate afternoon break.
Want more cozy baking inspiration? Don’t miss what RecipeTin Eats and Mom on Timeout have to offer—tons of classic comfort recipes and creative baking ideas await.