As I sunk my teeth into the warm, soft Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookie, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This delightful dessert captures all the beloved flavors of traditional carrot cake, reimagined as a sweet, hand-held treat. With their tender, chewy texture and a heavenly cream cheese frosting, these cookies are made for any occasion, whether you're hosting a brunch or simply craving a comforting snack. The best part? They come together quickly, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss. And if you’re looking for a fun twist, feel free to make them vegan-friendly! Curious to learn how to whip up these mouthwatering cookies in no time?
Why Try Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?
Irresistible flavors: The warm spices and freshly shredded carrots create a scrumptious twist on a classic dessert.
Easy to make: With minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time—perfect for busy days!
Versatile options: Whether you’re accommodating dietary preferences or seasonal changes, this recipe allows for easy substitutions like using vegan margarine or gluten-free flour.
Crowd-pleaser: Moist and rich with cream cheese frosting, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering or just for a cozy night in.
Pairing perfection: Enjoy them alongside a hot latte or refreshing chai tea for the ultimate treat!
Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake the best cookies ever!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with vegan margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture for a chewy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances flavors and adds extra sweetness.
- Freshly Shredded Carrots – Ensures moisture and natural sweetness; pre-shredded options should be fresh, not dry.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Egg Yolk – Contributes to richness and helps bind ingredients; can be swapped for a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Heavy Cream – Adds silkiness to the dough; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a non-dairy option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour with proper adjustments.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for that perfect cookie rise.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Cloves) – Create the beloved carrot cake flavor; cinnamon alone can be a great substitute.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Offers a rich, tangy topping that pairs beautifully with the cookies; choose dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect drizzle.
- Chopped Pecans (for garnish) – Adds a delightful nutty crunch; entirely optional!
With these simple ingredients, you'll be on your way to creating a batch of Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure your Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies bake evenly. This sets the stage for deliciously soft cookies that will be easy to transfer once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sugar has dissolved and the mix appears slightly pale in color, creating a luscious base for your cookies.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the freshly shredded carrots, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is combined smoothly, without overmixing. The carrots will add moisture and natural sweetness, ensuring your Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies are soft and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this might lead to tougher cookies. The goal here is to create a thick, cookie dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the dough into 8 equal balls. Flatten each portion gently to a thickness of about ¾ to 1 inch. Place the shaped dough on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie for rising as they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the cookies to be soft in the center with slightly set edges. They may look underbaked at first, but they will continue to firm up as they cool, resulting in that perfect soft center.
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes. This resting time helps them set completely. After that, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, so they’re ready for their delightful frosting.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until it reaches a fluffy consistency. This luscious cream cheese frosting is what takes your Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies to the next level.
Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Once your cookies have cooled completely, generously frost the tops of each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. For an added touch, sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch. This finishing touch enhances both the visual appeal and texture of your scrumptious Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just scoop the dough into portions and cover it tightly in plastic wrap or a sealed container. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge, let it sit for about 10 minutes to soften, and then shape and bake as directed. The frosted cookies can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll be just as delicious and perfect for dessert or a sweet snack when you need them!
Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these cookies with delightful changes!
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Zucchini Twist: Substitute shredded carrots with shredded zucchini for a lighter, equally moist cookie.
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Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans completely for a nut-free version that’s just as delicious.
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Addicted to Raisins: Incorporate ½ cup of raisins for that classic carrot cake burst of flavor and sweetness.
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Tropical Vibes: Mix in crushed pineapple for a sweet, fruity twist that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
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Vegan Delight: Swap all dairy ingredients for vegan alternatives, like coconut yogurt for the frosting, keeping everyone happy.
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Spice it Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the spices, giving it a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
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Chocolate Lover's Dream: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet contrast to the traditional flavors.
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Extra Crunch: Experiment with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts; they add a delightful crunch while keeping it allergy-friendly.
Feel free to explore these variations and redefine your Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies experience! If you're also looking for ways to make these cookies a hit with friends, consider checking out my tips on pairing desserts with beverages.
What to Serve with Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
These delightful cookies can create a heartwarming meal experience when paired with the right accompaniments.
- Hot Latte: A rich, creamy latte complements the cookies’ sweetness and enhances the warm, spiced flavors of the carrots.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea pair beautifully with the cookies, making for a cozy afternoon treat that warms the soul.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright contrast to the richness of the cookies while keeping the meal balanced.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy, crunchy counterpart that perfectly offsets the cookie’s texture.
- Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides a luscious, cold counterpart, melting into the cookie’s soft surface—pure bliss!
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, adds a savory twist to the sweet cookies, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Spiced Nuts: Mix of roasted spiced nuts brings a satisfying crunch and enhances the cookies’ cozy flavor profile, making every bite delightful.
- Milk: A classic pairing that never goes out of style! The creamy richness of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies and makes for a comforting indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
Fridge: Keep your leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness and moistness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Frosting: If you have leftover cream cheese frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Rewhip before using.
Reheating: To enjoy your Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies warm and fresh, microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Expert Tips for Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix your dough just until everything is combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy; overmixing can toughen them.
- Chill If Needed: If your cookie dough feels sticky or too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop and shape.
- Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked in the center after 12 minutes for that perfect, soft bite.
- Refresh Cookies: To soften day-old cookies, microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy your delicious Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies!
Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of carrots should I use for the cookies?
Freshly shredded carrots are ideal for these cookies as they provide moisture and natural sweetness. If you opt for pre-shredded carrots, make sure they look fresh and not dry, as the latter can affect the texture of your cookies.
How should I store my Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious. If you're storing them for longer, it's best to freeze them.
Can I freeze Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each unfrosted cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and add the frosting afterward.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too soft or sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This helps firm it up for easier handling. It’s okay to chill the dough multiple times if necessary; just make sure not to let it harden too much!
Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Yes! These cookies contain common allergens like dairy (from unsalted butter and cream cheese), gluten (from all-purpose flour), and nuts (if you choose to add pecans). For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts, and for vegan adaptations, use alternatives like vegan margarine and dairy-free cream cheese.
Can I modify the recipe for a gluten-free version?
Certainly! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure you follow the instructions on the packaging as some blends may require additional binding agents. Adjusting the liquid content may also be necessary depending on the flour type used. Enjoy creating your perfect Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies!
Indulgent Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies You'll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the freshly shredded carrots, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream to the butter mixture and mix on low speed until combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently.
- Portion out the dough into 8 equal balls and flatten each to a thickness of about ¾ to 1 inch on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 12 minutes until soft in the center with slightly set edges.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Frost the cooled cookies and optionally sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
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