The scent of warm spices wafting through my kitchen never fails to evoke memories of spirited holiday gatherings. Inspired by the delectable Crumbl carrot cake cookies, these treats combine the best of a carrot cake with the irresistible ease of cookie format. Picture soft, chewy cookies infused with a vibrant blend of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice, then generously topped with a creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. They’re the perfect crowd-pleaser for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, elevating your dessert spread without the hassle of a full cake. Each bite is like a hug from an old friend, reminding us of cozy celebrations and the joy of homemade treats. Ready to bring a taste of holiday magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Irresistible?
Warm, Inviting Flavors: The combination of fragrant spices like cinnamon and ginger creates an aroma that evokes the spirit of holiday gatherings.
Easy Baking Process: With simple steps and no complicated techniques, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all levels.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for festive occasions such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, they effortlessly fit into any dessert lineup.
Deliciously Soft Texture: Each cookie boasts a soft and chewy center, making them a satisfying alternative to traditional cakes.
Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting: The rich cream cheese topping elevates the flavor profile, delivering a creaminess that’s truly indulgent.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies have broad appeal, ensuring that everyone at your gathering will savor each bite! If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, don’t miss the other tasty treats in our cookie collection.
Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; Can use margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness; Can substitute with coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and aids in browning; Substitutable with more brown sugar if desired.
• Carrots – Essential for flavor and moisture, giving the cookie its characteristic taste; Use finely shredded carrots for best incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; Can replace with almond extract for a different taste.
• Egg Yolk – Provides fat and helps bind the cookies; Aquafaba may be used as a vegan substitute.
• Heavy Cream – Contributes to the dough’s richness; Substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie; Gluten-free flour blend can be used as an alternative.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents essential for the right rise; Using both helps achieve a balanced lift.
• Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Cloves – These spices provide the warm, holiday flavor profile; Adjust spices according to personal taste preferences.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile; A pinch of sea salt is ideal.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base for the frosting, providing tanginess; Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free frosting.
• Butter – Adds creaminess to the frosting; Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Imparts flavor to the frosting; Use the same as in the cookie dough for consistency.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; Sift for a smoother texture.
For Garnish
• Pecans – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor; Can be omitted or substituted with walnuts if preferred.
These Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies are packed with flavor and are sure to delight your friends and family!
How to Make Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and effortlessly release after baking.
- Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for a light and tender cookie texture.
- Mix in the finely shredded carrots, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream until everything is fully combined, creating a colorful and fragrant cookie dough.
- Incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and salt gradually until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ tenderness.
- Shape the dough into 8 equal cookie balls and flatten them slightly before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. This helps the cookies spread evenly while baking.
- Bake the cookies for 12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This will give your cookies a luscious topping!
- Frost the cooled cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Optional: Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for added warmth and spice.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without compromising on flavor. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply shape the cookies into balls and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the cookies just as delicious. Additionally, make the cream cheese frosting ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the chilled cookie dough and frost them right after they cool. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have fresh cookies with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?
Looking to create a delightful spread that complements the cozy flavors of these spiced cookies? Let’s explore some perfect pairings!
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich and velvety drink that enhances the spice notes in the cookies, creating a comforting duo perfect for chilly evenings.
- Chai Latte: This spiced tea beverage echoes the warm flavors of cinnamon and ginger, making it an ideal partner for your carrot cake cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the cookies, elevating each bite into a delightful experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing choice, the natural sweetness and acidity of fresh fruits cut through the richness of the cookies, balancing flavors perfectly.
- Maple Glazed Pecans: A crunchy, sweet-tart garnish adds additional texture and a nutty flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with the spiced cookies.
- Festive Holiday Punch: A fruity, sparkling drink adds a celebratory touch, making it a fun addition to holiday gatherings alongside your yummy cookies!
These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies but also create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing moments with loved ones.
Expert Tips for Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming; this helps achieve that light, fluffy texture you want in each cookie.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft centers we love!
- Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
- Check for Doneness: Pull the cookies out when the edges are golden but the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook while cooling, giving you that nice chewy texture.
- Customize the Frosting: Play with the sweetness of your cream cheese frosting by adjusting the powdered sugar. A little less can highlight the tangy cream cheese flavor beautifully.
- Mix Up the Garnish: Feel free to swap pecans for your favorite nuts or omit them altogether for a nut-free version of these spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain softness. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!
Fridge: Store cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days. Ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To warm the cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just heated through, revitalizing the soft, chewy texture.
Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them uniquely yours.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. Enjoy the same soft texture without the gluten!
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without allergens. These cookies will still shine with flavor!
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and cream cheese for a completely dairy-free version that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Everyone can indulge!
- Flavor Twists: Add raisins or chopped pineapple to the batter for a tropical flair. The juicy bursts complement the spices beautifully!
- Spice Adjustments: Tweak the spice amounts based on your palate; reduce cloves or increase ginger for a personal touch. Customize to your heart’s delight!
- Frosting Options: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a coconut whipped cream for a lighter topping. This airy touch adds a refreshing twist to the cookies!
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips alongside the carrots for an indulgent surprise in each bite. Chocolate and spice make everything nice!
- Additional Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a bright zing that complements the flavors perfectly. A little citrus goes a long way in elevating taste!
Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best carrots for my cookies?
Absolutely! When picking carrots, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. Fresh carrots should feel crisp to the touch. I often buy organic carrots as they have a more vibrant flavor, which enhances the cookies. Be sure to finely shred them for the best incorporation into your cookie dough!
What’s the best way to store the cookies after baking?
Very important! Once your Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, place them in the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to 7 days — just ensure they’re sealed well to prevent any drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Definitely! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely and then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their soft, chewy texture.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies are a bit dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or not enough fat in the recipe. Always mix until just combined once you add the flour, and ensure your butter is at room temperature. For ultimate softness, you can also try adding a tablespoon of milk or more heavy cream into the dough to help retain moisture during baking.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! To cater to those with nut allergies, you can simply omit the pecans from the cookie or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead. Just be cautious with cross-contamination and consider offering alternative toppings if needed.
Is there a way to make these cookies healthier?
Yes! To make your Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Additionally, reducing the amount of sugar or using applesauce in place of some of the fat can also provide a lighter version while keeping them delicious!
Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the finely shredded carrots, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Incorporate all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and salt gradually until just combined.
- Shape the dough into 8 equal cookie balls and flatten them slightly before placing on the baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
- Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the cooled cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with chopped pecans for extra texture.
