1. Introduction Welcome to a world where the warmth of carrot cake meets the delight of cookies. Our Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is a heavenly blend of spices, sweetness, and texture. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft, rich with cinnamon, and speckled with fresh carrots, all crowned with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of pecans. This treat is perfect for any season, be it a cozy autumn evening or a sunny spring picnic. Let’s embark on this culinary journey to bake cookies that’ll warm hearts and bring smiles.
2. Ingredients
- 1 cup Sweet Cream Salted Butter
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups grated or chopped raw Carrots
- 1 cup Cream Cheese Frosting (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup chopped Pecans
3. & 4. Directions & How to Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Begin by grating and chopping your raw carrots.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in the flour until just combined, then stir in the grated carrots.
- On a lined baking sheet, drop spoonfuls of the dough.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool before frosting them with cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish with chopped pecans around the edges.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
6. Servings This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
7. FAQs
- Can I use pre-grated carrots? Freshly grated carrots are recommended for moisture and flavor.
- How do I store these cookies? Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze them? Yes, without frosting, for up to 3 months.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it might alter the texture slightly.
- Can I reduce the sugar? Yes, but it will affect the sweetness and texture.
8. Conclusion Baking these Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just creating a dessert; it’s about crafting memories and spreading joy. Each cookie, with its moist carrot flecks, spicy aroma, and creamy frosting, is a testament to the simple pleasures of life. These cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting during holidays, or just enjoying with your afternoon tea. Embrace the ease and satisfaction of baking, and let these golden delights brighten up your day.