Description
These Perfect Carrot Cake Cookies combine the moist, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake into a convenient, handheld treat. Loaded with grated carrots, warm cinnamon and nutmeg, and optional walnuts and raisins, these cookies are soft, tender, and deliciously satisfying. They make a great snack or dessert that captures all the cozy elements of carrot cake in a quick 30-minute bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fully combined.
- Add egg and vanilla: Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, beating until smooth and uniform.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough.
- Stir in carrots and optional add-ins: Fold in the grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins if using, evenly distributing them throughout the dough.
- Portion the dough: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- You can omit the walnuts and raisins if you prefer a nut-free or simpler cookie.
- Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture in the cookies.
- Use freshly grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor.
- These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
