Dive into the world of these lusciously chewy carrot cake cookies, bursting with fresh carrots and warm spices, and filled with a rich cream cheese heart. Each bite delivers the comforting flavors of carrot cake paired with the smooth, creamy surprise of cheesecake filling. Topped with playful carrot-themed frosting, these cookies are a delight for both the palate and the eyes.
Why You'll Love These Carrot Cake Cookies
These cookies are a perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The chewy exterior, enriched with spices and carrots, provides a satisfying bite leading to the creamy and tangy cream cheese center. It's a gourmet experience that combines the homely comfort of carrot cake with the decadence of a filled cookie. Ideal for those who love a twist on classic flavors!
Perfect for Celebratory Occasions
Whether it's Easter, a spring gathering, or just a special treat for the family, these carrot cake cookies are sure to impress. Their unique filled center and adorable decoration make them stand out at any dessert table. Celebrate the freshness of spring or any festive occasion with these delightful cookies that promise to be a conversation starter.
Decoration Tips for an Adorable Finish
These cookies are finished with a charming carrot and leaf frosting design, perfect for adding a whimsical touch. For a professional look, use a fine tip for the carrot details and a leaf tip for the greens. Playing with the shades of orange and green can add depth to your decoration. Presenting these cookies on a rustic wooden platter or a vintage plate enhances their homemade appeal.
Chewy Carrot Cake Cookies with a Heart of Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Carrot Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup finely grated carrots (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
- Frosting for Decoration:
- 2 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food gel dye (orange and green for decoration)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Whip cream cheese until creamy, blend in sugar and vanilla. Freeze dollops on wax paper until solid.
- Carrot Cookies:
- Extract moisture from grated carrots. Whisk together flour, baking soda, spices. Cream butter with sugars, then incorporate carrots, vanilla, and egg yolks. Mix in dry ingredients.
- Scoop dough, form a well for the cheesecake filling, encase it with dough. Chill before baking.
- Bake:
- Arrange on a baking sheet, bake at 350°F for 13-15 minutes. Let cool on the sheet before moving.
- Decorate:
- Beat together frosting ingredients, divide and color. Decorate each cookie with a carrot design using frosting.
Enjoy these delightful carrot cake cookies, a perfect blend of chewy, creamy, and spicy, topped with a cute and festive frosting.
