Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Carrots, Oats, and Nuts/Raisins: Gently fold in the shredded carrots, rolled oats, walnuts or pecans (if using), and raisins (if using).
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- 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.
- 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
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie.
- 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!