Are you a fan of Crumbl's carrot cake cookies but disappointed when they're not featured on the weekly menu? Well, fret not! We've crafted a recipe that brings the same delightful flavors right into your own kitchen. These cookies are a true labor of love, combining the warmth of cinnamon and ginger with the natural sweetness of finely shredded carrots. And let's not forget about the decadent cream cheese frosting and toasted pecans that top it all off.
To start, gather your ingredients. You'll need all - purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and of course, plenty of fresh carrots. The carrots are the star of the show here, so make sure to shred them as finely as possible. This will ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough and add a wonderful texture.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium - sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger. Set this dry mixture aside for now. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a softer and more tender cookie.
Next, add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix, as this can make the cookies tough. Finally, fold in the shredded carrots. The dough should be thick and moist, with the carrots adding a lovely orange hue.
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Make sure to space the cookies at least 2 inches apart, as they will spread during baking. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 - 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
While the cookies are baking, it's time to prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The frosting should have a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the spiced carrot cookies.
Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of each cookie. Then, sprinkle some toasted pecans on the frosting for an added crunch and nutty flavor. The toasted pecans not only add a delicious taste but also a beautiful visual element to the cookies.
These homemade carrot cake cookies are a wonderful treat for any occasion. Whether you're having a family gathering, a party with friends, or just looking for a sweet snack to enjoy on a lazy afternoon, they are sure to be a hit. The combination of the spiced carrot cookie base, the creamy cheese frosting, and the crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
You can also get creative with these cookies. You could add raisins or walnuts to the dough for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try adding a bit of lemon zest to the frosting for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless!
So, the next time you're missing Crumbl's carrot cake cookies, don't despair. With this recipe, you can make your own batch right at home. The preparation may take a bit of time and effort, but the end result is well worth it. Enjoy these delicious cookies and share them with your loved ones. You'll be the hero of the dessert table!