Name: Soft Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies You’ll Adore
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (light); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups shredded carrots (fresh or pre-shredded); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces cream cheese (full-fat); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup pecans (chopped)

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As I sunk my teeth into a soft, spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookie, the warmth of cinnamon and hints of ginger danced across my palate. These delightful cookies, topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting, perfectly capture the essence of classic carrot cake while boasting the irresistible perks of quick prep and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe for spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home. Have you ever wondered how a simple cookie could evoke such comfort and joy? Let’s dive deeper into the scrumptiousness that awaits you!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Soft, Chewy Texture: Each bite features a melt-in-your-mouth experience reminiscent of classic carrot cake.

Warm Spices: A delightful mix of cinnamon, ginger, and allspice adds an inviting warmth, turning every cookie into a cozy treat.

Velvety Frosting: Topping these cookies with homemade cream cheese frosting transforms them into a decadent dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy bakers, allowing you to whip up a batch in under an hour—ideal for last-minute gatherings!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are a hit at any occasion, from holiday parties to afternoon teas, ensuring there’s always a smile at the table.

Versatile Variations: Add twists like crushed pineapple or shredded coconut to keep your cookie game exciting and fresh!

Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Provides moisture and richness; use unsalted for better salt control.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; light brown can be substituted with granulated sugar.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies for a balanced taste; brown sugar may be substituted for a chewier texture.
• Shredded Carrots – Base ingredient that adds moisture and flavor; can use pre-shredded or fresh carrots.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; substitute with almond extract for a different twist.
• Egg Yolk – Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients; avoid substituting with egg whites to maintain moisture.
• Heavy Cream – Adds moisture to the dough; may use half-and-half, but results will vary slightly.
• All-Purpose Flour – Main structure of the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise for a soft texture; ensure freshness for best results.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Cloves) – Add warmth and depth of flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookie.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; a pinch of sea salt can enhance flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Base for frosting providing tanginess; use full-fat for richer frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; for sugar-free, use a suitable sugar alternative.

For the Topping
• Pecans – Adds crunch and flavor; can substitute with walnuts or omit for nut allergies.

These delicious spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin 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 even baking. This crucial step sets the stage for baking your delightful spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies to perfection.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the mixture at medium speed until it’s smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The light, airy texture of the mixture will ensure your cookies come out soft and chewy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, beat in the shredded carrots, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until fully incorporated. This combination adds moisture and flavor to your dough, which is essential for creating those irresistible spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies. Look for a well-mixed, cohesive batter before moving on.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix it gently on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this will make your cookies tough. The dough should be slightly sticky but well blended with hints of aromatic spices.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop equal portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between. Flatten each scoop slightly with your palm to form even cookies. Make sure to aim for about 8 cookies per batch, setting the perfect size for the spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. This will ensure your cookies have that desired chewy texture. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as they will continue to set after removal.

Step 7: Cool on the Baking Sheet
Once your cookies are baked to perfection, allow them to cool on the sheet for about 20 minutes. This cooling period helps the cookies firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. They should be soft but not falling apart, creating the ultimate base for that cream cheese frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies cool, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter in a bowl until smooth. Slowly add sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until creamy and fluffy. This decadently smooth frosting will be the crowning glory on your spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Once the cookies have completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture and flavor. These delightful specks not only enhance the cookie’s appearance but also bring an additional crunch to every sweet bite.

How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delightful softness.

Fridge: If you prefer them cooler, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Allow cookies to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual cookies, layered between parchment paper, for up to 3 months. This will preserve the soft texture of your spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies.

Reheating: To revive the cookies, microwave for 5-10 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the comforting flavors like they’re fresh out of the oven!

Expert Tips for Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter, which will help in achieving those soft, delicious spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies.

Don’t Overmix: Combine the dry and wet ingredients just until mixed; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want them tender and chewy.

Chill the Dough (Optional): For an even thicker cookie, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, which can enhance their texture and flavor.

Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool fully on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack; this step prevents them from breaking apart.

Frost Before Serving: Frost your cookies just before serving for the freshest taste and texture, and store any leftovers unfrosted in an airtight container.

Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with variations! Add-ins like chopped dried fruits or coconut can elevate your spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies experience.

What to Serve with Decadent Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies?

These cozy delights pair beautifully with various treats and beverages to create a memorable dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm spices in the cookies, adding a cool and creamy contrast that simply melts in your mouth.
Fresh Brewed Coffee: Enjoy the rich aroma and flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee alongside your cookies. The slight bitterness complements the sweetness and richness of the cream cheese frosting.
Spiced Chai Latte: Serve with a warm spiced chai latte for a comforting combo. The fragrant spices will resonate beautifully with the flavors of your carrot cake cookies.
Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds crunch and enhances the nuttiness of the cookie. This pairing creates delightful textural contrasts in every bite.
Fruit Compote: A dollop of tangy fruit compote, like raspberry or peach, cuts through the sweetness and complements the flavors, bringing a refreshing twist to your plate.
Herbal Tea: Brew a cup of chamomile or mint herbal tea to enjoy with your cookies. The soothing notes of tea pair splendidly with the warmth of the cookies, perfect for an afternoon treat.
Caramel Drizzle: For an indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel over the frosted cookies. The gooey sweetness enhances every bite and feels like a warm hug.
Chocolate Milk: The nostalgic flavor of chocolate milk offers a sweet and rich drink that pairs notably with the spiced notes of the cookies, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Lemon Zest: Shaving a bit of lemon zest over the frosting can brighten the entire cookie experience. The zest brings a refreshing, tart contrast to the rich flavors.

These delectable pairings elevate your Decadent Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies to new heights, making each bite a blend of flavors and textures to savor.

Make Ahead Options

These spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients as outlined. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. For even more convenience, you can scoop the dough into individual portions and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. By prepping ahead, you’ll ensure each bite remains just as delightful and fresh as if you had made them on the spot!

Variations & Substitutions for Spiced Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cookies to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!

Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple or shredded coconut to the dough for a burst of tropical flavor. These additions pair beautifully with the spices and create a bright, refreshing cookie experience.
Nut-Free Option: Swap pecans with walnuts or simply omit nuts altogether to make these cookies safe for those with nut allergies. You won’t miss the crunch, and the cookies will still have that unbeatable softness!
Gluten-Free Choice: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
Spice Up the Flavor: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to give the cookies a personalized touch. Alternatively, you can increase or decrease existing spices to find your perfect flavor balance.
Fruit Add-Ins: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a traditional carrot cake twist. They add a delightful chewy texture and a hint of natural sweetness that harmonizes with the cookie’s spiced profile.
Cream Cheese Alternative: Use cream cheese or Mascarpone for frosting interchangeably. The latter offers a slightly different flavor profile that can make your frosting uniquely delicious!
Sugar Reduction: If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, try using half the amount of granulated sugar and rely more on the natural sweetness of carrots and any added fruit.
Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat. The spice creates an unexpected but delightful contrast to the sweetness!

And while you’re at it, why not check out our recipes for Cookies Cream Oreo and Gingerbread Men Cookies for additional inspirations that will keep your baking adventures exciting and flavorful!

Crumbl Carrot Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of carrots should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, I recommend using fresh carrots that you shred yourself. If you’re short on time, pre-shredded carrots work beautifully as well. Just make sure they are bright and free of dark spots to ensure freshness.

How should I store leftover Crumbl carrot cake cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying them again for the best taste!

Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Certainly! To freeze your spiced Crumbl carrot cake cookies, first, layer them between sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or 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 warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

What if my cookie dough seems too wet?
No worries! If your dough feels too wet, you can sprinkle in a bit more all-purpose flour, about one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together nicely but remains soft. Just be careful not to overmix once you’ve added the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! If you’re concerned about nut allergies, you can either omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds or leave them out completely. The cookies are still delicious without nuts, maintaining their delightful softness and flavorful spices.