Carrot Cake Cookies
Looking for a sweet treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of carrot cake with the delightful texture of a cookie? Look no further! These carrot cake cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with spices, making them a perfect dessert or snack. With a hint of cream cheese frosting, they’ll be a hit with friends and family alike. Let’s dive into this easy recipe to create your new favorite cookie!
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup raisins or walnuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (approximately 1 cookie) contains about 150 calories, 7 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the grated carrots and raisins or walnuts, if using.
7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Optional: Drizzle with cream cheese frosting once cooled for an extra treat!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, you can use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener. Dairy-free butter can be used for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served alongside a light fruit salad for a refreshing dessert option.
Storage and Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for better creaming.
- Measure your flour correctly; too much can make the cookies dry.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before moving them to prevent breaking.
- Don’t skip the spices; they are key to the flavor!
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh carrots for the best flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with add-ins like coconut or chocolate chips.
- Keep an eye on baking time; cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain this quality.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden brown, while the center may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add other ingredients to the cookies?
Absolutely! You can include nuts, chocolate chips, or even shredded coconut to enhance the flavor and texture.
How should I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use pre-packaged grated carrots?
Yes, pre-packaged grated carrots can save time, but fresh carrots will provide better flavor and texture in the cookies.
Conclusion
Carrot cake cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the rich flavors of carrot cake in a convenient cookie form. They are perfect for any occasion, easy to make, and sure to impress. Enjoy baking these scrumptious treats for your family and friends!
Carrot Cake Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup raisins or walnuts optional
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, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and raisins or walnuts, if using.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Drizzle with cream cheese frosting once cooled for an extra treat!
