
These Carrot Cake Cookies are a perfect blend of the classic flavors of carrot cake in a convenient, easy-to-make cookie form. Soft, spiced, and filled with grated carrots and chopped pecans, these cookies are topped with a creamy and rich cream cheese frosting, just like a traditional carrot cake. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat for dessert or want to impress guests at a gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the comforting flavors of carrot cake with the added bonus of being able to enjoy them in cookie form!

Prep and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14-16 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Cake Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar (add more for desired consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the grated carrots and chopped pecans.
- Chill the Dough:
- Transfer the cookie dough to the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Form the Cookies:
- Using a cookie scoop, form 2-3 tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. You can add more powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Frost the Cookies:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. You can swirl it for a decorative touch or simply frost each cookie to your liking.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Enjoy your carrot cake cookies! They are especially delicious when served chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie – based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 190-220 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25-28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18-20g
- Sodium: 100-120mg
- Cholesterol: 35-40mg

These Carrot Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic carrot cake, combining the rich flavors of cinnamon, carrots, and pecans with a creamy cream cheese frosting. They are the perfect treat for any occasion and can be made ahead for easy enjoyment. The cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with all the best parts of carrot cake, but in a more portable form. Whether for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet indulgence, these cookies will be a crowd-pleaser!
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