Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the grated carrots and rolled oats, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins if you choose to use them.
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough (about 1 tablespoon per cookie) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of sweetness if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Carrot Cake Cookies are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a few creative serving ideas. Consider dusting them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance or sandwiching two cookies together with a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting for a delightful treat. Pair with a warm cup of cinnamon tea or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To maintain the softness of your Carrot Cake Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Helpful cooking tips
- Grate Your Carrots: Use the small side of a box grater for finely grated carrots to ensure they blend well into the dough.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to create a tender cookie.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add in ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor if you’re a spice lover.
Flavor swaps
Looking to shake things up? Here are some creative twists you might enjoy:
- Chocolate Chips: Add dark or white chocolate chips in place of nuts for a sweeter version.
- Pineapple: Mix in crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Coconut: Shredded coconut can add a chewy texture and flavor.
- Dried Fruits: Experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for added sweetness and tartness.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
From start to finish, you can expect about 30-40 minutes, including baking time.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if necessary. Just note that the texture might be slightly different.
What if I’m allergic to nuts?
No problem! You can simply omit the nuts or use pumpkin seeds as a great alternative for crunch without allergens.
