Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly - smaller cookies may need only 10-12 minutes, while larger ones might need 16-18 minutes. Watch for lightly golden edges as your indicator of doneness.

My carrots seem very moist. Should I drain them?

If your freshly grated carrots seem exceptionally wet, you can place them in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze out some moisture. This prevents overly wet cookies that might spread too much during baking.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots from the store?

While convenient, pre-shredded carrots are typically thicker and drier than freshly grated. For the best texture and flavor, I recommend grating your own carrots, which only takes a minute or two with a box grater.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still somewhat soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. They'll continue cooking slightly on the hot baking sheet, giving you perfectly chewy cookies once cooled.

Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches Recipe

Name: Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup flour; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1 cup rolled oats; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 Tbsp salted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar

These Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches transform the beloved flavors of classic carrot cake into convenient, handheld treats! Soft, chewy cookies packed with freshly grated carrots and warm cinnamon are sandwiched together with a rich cream cheese filling. Ready in just 30 minutes, these delightful cookie sandwiches offer all the satisfaction of carrot cake without the fuss of layering and frosting a traditional cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Treat: From start to finish, these cookie sandwiches come together in just 30 minutes – perfect for when you’re craving carrot cake flavor without the time commitment.
Perfect Balance: The spiced, chewy cookies paired with tangy-sweet cream cheese filling creates that iconic carrot cake experience in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookie sandwiches consistently impress at potlucks, bake sales, and family gatherings – watch them disappear in minutes!
Portable Dessert: Unlike traditional carrot cake that requires plates and forks, these handheld treats are perfect for snacking on the go or packing in lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter: Creates a rich, tender texture in the cookies and brings creaminess to the filling. Make sure it’s properly softened for easy mixing.
Brown Sugar: Provides moisture and deep caramel notes that complement the carrots perfectly. The molasses content helps create that classic carrot cake flavor profile.
Egg: Acts as a binder for the cookies and adds structure. Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the batter.
Flour: Provides structure to the cookies. Don’t overmix after adding to maintain tender cookies.
Cinnamon: The signature spice that gives these cookies their warm, carrot cake flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for more complexity.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: This dynamic duo creates the perfect rise and texture in the cookies – not too flat, not too cakey.
Carrots: The star ingredient! Fresh grated carrots add moisture, natural sweetness, and that distinctive carrot cake flavor and color.
Rolled Oats: Adds wonderful texture and heartiness to the cookies while keeping them from becoming too soft once assembled.
Cream Cheese: The backbone of the filling, providing that characteristic tangy flavor that pairs so perfectly with carrot cake.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling while maintaining a smooth texture. Sift first if you notice any lumps.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Mix-Ins for Extra Texture

Add up to 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even raisins to the cookie dough for that classic carrot cake texture. Coconut flakes work beautifully too!

Spice It Up

Enhance the spice profile by adding 1/4 teaspoon each of nutmeg and ground ginger, or a pinch of cloves for a more complex flavor.

Citrus Twist

Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the cookie dough or the cream cheese filling for a bright, citrusy complement.

Healthier Swap

Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutritional value, or substitute applesauce for half the butter in the cookies.

How to Make Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This incorporates air for better texture. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Gently fold in the grated carrots and oats, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

While the cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a generous amount of cream cheese filling on the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Gently press together.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to ensure tender cookies.
Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all cookies are the same size, creating perfect sandwiches.
Properly Cooling: Let the cookies cool completely before adding filling, otherwise the cream cheese frosting will melt.
Fine Grate: Grate the carrots on the fine side of your grater for better texture and more even distribution throughout the cookies.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve these cookie sandwiches with a cold glass of milk, hot coffee, or chai tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Dressy Presentation

For special occasions, roll the edges of the filled cookies in finely chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles for an extra festive touch.

Dessert Platter

Include these on a dessert platter alongside fresh berries and other cookies for a beautiful presentation at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store assembled cookie sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day!

Freezing

Freeze the assembled cookie sandwiches in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Make-Ahead Options

Bake the cookies up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container. Make the filling up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Assemble just before serving or up to 24 hours in advance.

Reheating

For the best texture, let frozen sandwiches thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Allow refrigerated cookie sandwiches to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly – smaller cookies may need only 10-12 minutes, while larger ones might need 16-18 minutes. Watch for lightly golden edges as your indicator of doneness.
My carrots seem very moist. Should I drain them?

If your freshly grated carrots seem exceptionally wet, you can place them in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze out some moisture. This prevents overly wet cookies that might spread too much during baking.
Can I use pre-shredded carrots from the store?

While convenient, pre-shredded carrots are typically thicker and drier than freshly grated. For the best texture and flavor, I recommend grating your own carrots, which only takes a minute or two with a box grater.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still somewhat soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. They’ll continue cooking slightly on the hot baking sheet, giving you perfectly chewy cookies once cooled.

Final Thoughts

These Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches bring together the cozy, comforting flavors of carrot cake in a fun, portable format that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of spiced, carrot-studded cookies with that irresistible cream cheese filling creates a treat that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re making them for a special dessert, afternoon treat, or bake sale contribution, these cookie sandwiches are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!