There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about carrot cake. The warm spices, the tender crumb, and that sweet touch of cream cheese frosting — it all reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon. Inspired by her classic carrot cake, these Carrot Cake Cookies deliver all that beloved flavor in a handheld, delightfully chewy form.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday platter, gifting a batch to a friend, or just craving something sweet with your afternoon tea, these cookies are as comforting as they are crave-worthy. And with shredded carrots, warm cinnamon, and optional golden raisins or walnuts, each bite is a mini celebration of cozy baking.
Ingredients Carrot Cake Cookies (Makes 24 Cookies)
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup golden raisins
- ½ cup shredded coconut
For Cream Cheese Frosting (optional but heavenly!):
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Fold in Carrots and Dry Mix
Stir in the grated carrots, then gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork the dough.
Step 6: Optional Goodies
Gently fold in nuts, raisins, or coconut if using. This step brings texture and a rustic touch reminiscent of traditional carrot cake.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are set. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 8: Frost (Optional)
While cookies cool, make your frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Spread or pipe a dollop onto each cooled cookie for an indulgent touch.
Why You’ll Love These Carrot Cake Cookies
- One Bowl, Easy Clean-Up: No complicated steps or specialty equipment.
- Customizable: Add-ins like nuts or coconut offer a lovely crunch and flavor.
- Perfect Texture: Chewy centers with lightly crisp edges.
- Healthier Dessert Option: A bit of veg never hurts, right?
Seasonal Touches & Variations
For Autumn Vibes:
Add a pinch of clove or substitute pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
For Spring Brunch:
Omit the frosting and pair cookies with a citrus glaze using orange juice and zest.
Vegan-Friendly Option:
Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) for a dairy-free version.
Tips from My Kitchen
- Grate the carrots finely. The finer the shred, the better they bake into the cookie.
- Don’t skip the chill (if your dough feels too sticky): 30 minutes in the fridge firms it up for perfect scooping.
- Pair with tea or chai. These flavors bloom beautifully with warm drinks.
Storing & Freezing
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing for best texture.
A Final Note from My Heart
These cookies were born from a chilly afternoon and a craving for something nostalgic. The first batch I made reminded me so much of my grandmother’s spice-laced carrot cake — only in cookie form — that I couldn’t stop at just one (or three). I hope they bring the same kind of joy, comfort, and coziness to your home as they have to mine.