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There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm spices of a freshly baked carrot cake. When I decided to elevate this classic into a cookie form, I didn’t know I was about to stumble upon what would become my favorite holiday treat: Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy cookie, the aroma of cinnamon and ginger enveloping your senses, each bite offering a burst of buttery richness that reminds you of the special moments spent in the kitchen.

As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season approaches, these cookies are perfect for any gathering, delivering all the nostalgia of carrot cake, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’ll leave your guests reaching for seconds. Plus, with the option to go gluten-free, everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert. So roll up your sleeves and let’s whip up these delicious treats that are bound to bring a smile to faces, spark joy in hearts, and heat up your kitchen with their cozy scent!

Why love Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?

Versatile Delight: These cookies shine at any festive occasion, from Christmas to Thanksgiving, making them a versatile holiday staple.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices and buttery richness creates an enchanting taste that echoes traditional carrot cake.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time, impressing friends and family effortlessly.
Gluten-Free Option: By using a gluten-free flour blend, everyone can indulge without worry, making these cookies inclusive and thoughtful.
Flavorful Frosting: Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, each cookie is enhanced by a velvety burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Nostalgic Aroma: As they bake, your home will fill with the nostalgic scent of spices, turning your kitchen into a warm and inviting haven.

Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor; swap with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the base; for a lower-calorie option, consider a sweetener like Stevia.
Carrots (shredded) – The star ingredient that delivers moisture and flavor; finely shred them for better mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a more authentic taste.
Egg Yolk – Essential for structure and richness; avoid using a whole egg for best texture.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with buttermilk for a tangy note.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookies; for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Key leavening agents for a light texture; don’t skip these!
Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Cloves – Infuse warming spice goodness; adjust these spices to your taste preference.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; essential to bring out all the flavors.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – The frosting base that adds creaminess and flavor; make sure it’s softened for smooth results.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a light, fluffy texture; use less for a less sweet option.

For Topping

Pecans – Chopped for a delightful crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted for those with nut allergies.

Get ready to create these delightful Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies that will make your holidays unforgettable!

How to Make Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the perfect stage for your cookies to bake evenly, ensuring a lovely, golden finish.
Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes, creating a smooth base that brings out the rich flavors.
Mix in the shredded carrots, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and heavy cream until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be vibrant and slightly thick; this is where the magic starts to take shape!
Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies tender.
Scoop out 8 portions of cookie dough, shaping each into a ball, and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten them to about ¾-1 inch thick; this helps them bake evenly and attain that ideal cookie texture.
Bake for about 12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Frost the cooled cookies by whipping cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a light and fluffy frosting that’s a dream to spread.
Decorate each cookie with a generous dollop of frosting and a sprinkle of chopped pecans before serving, adding an extra crunch that complements the soft cookie beautifully.

Optional: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for an added layer of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by scooping it into balls and chilling them in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes shaping and baking easier when you’re ready to enjoy them. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to frost them before serving to prevent the cream cheese frosting from becoming soggy. Whether you prep ahead or bake in advance, these cookies retain their delightful taste and texture, making them just as delicious for your gathering!

Expert Tips for Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming; this ensures a smooth mixture and better texture in your cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the flour is incorporated into the dough to avoid tough cookies. A light hand keeps the cookies pillowy soft.
Cooling is Key: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes to set properly before transferring. This step helps maintain their shape and texture.
Adjust for Flavor: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your palate; this way, you can create the perfect balance for your very own spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies.
Frosting Smoothness: Ensure your cream cheese is softened well for frosting that’s easy to spread. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your frosting.
Storing Cookies: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring their delightful taste lasts longer.

Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas to make your cookies uniquely yours!

Nut-Free: Swap pecans with sunflower seeds for crunch without the nuts. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious treat without worry.
Extra Spice: Increase the cinnamon and ginger amounts for an aromatic kick that warms the soul. Your kitchen will smell heavenly while they bake!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting to cater to lactose intolerant guests. They won’t miss the dairy in this decadent treat.
Fruit-Filled Delight: Incorporate chopped pineapple or apples into the dough for a fruity twist that complements the spices. This adds a delightful surprise with every bite.
Choco-Infusion: Mix in chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey contrast to the traditional flavor. Who can resist a touch of chocolate?
Maple Magic: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a naturally sweetened cookie. It lends a warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness. It’s a fun way to spice things up!
Zesty Lemon: Fold in lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist that contrasts beautifully with the warming spices. The citrus will elevate your cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their delicious softness.

Fridge: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to an airtight container, layering with parchment paper; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw cookies in the fridge overnight before serving, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again.

What to Serve with Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?

Elevate your cookie experience with delightful pairings that complement the spices and sweetness of these treats.

Warm Spiced Chai: A cup of this fragrant tea beautifully enhances the warm spices in the cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture balances the warm, spiced cookies perfectly—like an embrace of flavors in every bite.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer cookies with yogurt and granola for a delightful breakfast or snack that combines soft, crunchy, and creamy textures.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A sprinkle of warm caramel sauce over the frosting adds an indulgent sweetness that will melt in your mouth.
Festive Fruit Salad: A burst of fresh fruit can brighten the palate after enjoying a rich cookie, balancing flavors while adding a refreshing touch.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea blends well with the cookie’s spices, offering a gentle and calming pairing without overpowering the dessert.

Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of carrots should I use?
For the best results, opt for fresh, medium-sized carrots that are firm to the touch. Look for carrots that are vibrant in color without dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate freshness. Finely shred the carrots for even mixing and to ensure they blend well into the cookie dough.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh for a longer period, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 7 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor, making them a perfect grab-and-go treat!

Can I freeze Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer the cookies to an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

What if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies end up dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or baking them for too long. To help prevent this, make sure you mix just until combined and keep an eye on the baking time; aim for a light golden color on the edges, and remember they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet once removed from the oven!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you have allergies to nuts, feel free to omit the chopped pecans used for topping. For those watching their sugar intake, you can swap brown and granulated sugar for coconut sugar or Stevia for a healthier alternative.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a gathering?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and then freeze them (as mentioned earlier), frosting them just before serving to ensure their creaminess shines through. This way, you’ll have a fantastic and festive dessert ready to impress your guests!