Carrot Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flourbaking sodabaking powdersaltcinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, beat the buttervegetable oilbrown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Add Carrots, Oats, and Nuts/Raisins: Gently fold in the shredded carrotsrolled oatswalnuts or pecans (if using), and raisins (if using).

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

  1. Portion the Dough: Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and place it onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.
  2. Decorate (Optional): For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on the frosting.

Tips for Success

  • Grate the Carrots Finely: Finely grated carrots blend well with the dough and help the cookies stay soft.
  • Chill the Dough (Optional): If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 20 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
  • Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough blend more smoothly and the cookies bake evenly.

Serving Suggestions

  • With a Warm Drink: These cookies pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or warm spiced cider.
  • As a Sandwich Cookie: For extra decadence, sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting in between.

Storing Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

These Carrot Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, with all the flavors you love in an easy-to-eat cookie form. Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced, these cookies are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy!

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