Contents

Easy Carrot Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Quick & Delicious Treat!

Are you searching for a delightful, fuss-free carrot cake experience in cookie form? Look no further! These Carrot Cake Mix Cookies are a game-changer, offering all the beloved flavors of classic carrot cake with incredible ease. Crafted from a simple boxed cake mix and crowned with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, these soft and chewy cookies are ready in no time.

Whether you’re celebrating Easter, embracing the arrival of spring, or simply craving the irresistible combination of carrot cake and cookies, this recipe is your go-to. If you’re a fan of convenient baking, you’ll also adore other easy cake mix cookie recipes. But for now, let’s dive into making these spiced, moist, and utterly satisfying carrot cake cookies!

The Charm of Easy Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe transforms a standard boxed carrot cake mix into irresistibly soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies. With a few simple additions like white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and crunchy walnuts, we elevate these cookies into something truly special. The final touch? A super simple, yet incredibly creamy, homemade cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the spiced cookie base.

We love how these Carrot Cake Mix Cookies offer an effortlessly delicious twist on a timeless dessert. They capture all the comforting flavors of traditional carrot cake in every bite, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, the recipe invites creativity, allowing you to customize the add-ins and decorations to suit your personal taste or holiday theme.

Why Choose Cake Mix for Your Cookies?

Using a boxed cake mix isn’t just a shortcut; it’s a smart way to achieve consistent, delicious results every time. Cake mixes are expertly formulated with the right balance of dry ingredients, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly moist and chewy. This convenience saves you time measuring multiple ingredients and reduces the chance of baking mishaps, making it ideal for busy bakers or anyone new to the kitchen. It also means you can whip up a batch of these delectable carrot cake cookies on a whim, satisfying those sudden cravings without a lengthy baking session.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Carrot Cake Mix Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful treats. This recipe keeps things simple, ensuring you spend less time shopping and more time enjoying.

Carrot Cake Mix Cookies Recipe Ingredients

1 box Carrot Cake Mix, 15.25-ounce (such as Duncan Hines). The quality of your cake mix can influence the cookie’s base flavor, so choose your favorite brand.
2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s chewy texture.
1/2 cup oil: Vegetable oil or canola oil works best, adding moisture and richness without altering the flavor.
1 cup of add-ins: This is where you can get creative! We recommend white chocolate chips, walnuts, and shredded coconut for a classic carrot cake profile. Other fantastic options include raisins, pecans, or milk chocolate chips.

Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Full-fat cream cheese yields the richest, most decadent frosting. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and flavor of the frosting.
¼ teaspoon salt: Just a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavors in the frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this provides the bulk and sweetness to the frosting.

How to Make Carrot Cake Mix Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Baking these cookies is incredibly straightforward, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked carrot cake cookies.

Prepare Your Workspace: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures even baking. Set them aside.
Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrot cake mix, eggs, and oil. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients on low speed for about 30 seconds, then increase the speed to medium and continue mixing for another minute. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. The batter will be notably thick.
Fold in Your Favorite Add-ins: Gently fold in your chosen add-ins. We used a delicious combination of white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts, which truly complement the carrot cake flavor. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; just combine until evenly distributed.
Scoop and Shape the Cookies: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough, or simply drop rounded heaping tablespoons onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Lightly press down on each dough ball with your fingers to slightly flatten them. This helps them spread into perfect cookie shapes during baking.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry cookies. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare for Frosting (or Enjoy Plain!): While the cookies are cooling, prepare your cream cheese frosting. It’s crucial that the cookies are completely cooled before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off. These cookies are also incredibly delicious on their own, especially with the delightful crunch of white chocolate chips, so feel free to enjoy a few unfrosted!

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

This classic cream cheese frosting is the perfect crowning glory for your carrot cake cookies. It’s smooth, creamy, and provides a delightful tang that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and softened cream cheese together until the mixture is light, fluffy, well-combined, and completely lump-free. This step is vital for a smooth frosting.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix well until these additional flavorings are fully incorporated.
Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until it is completely combined and the frosting is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the frosting too thin.
Frost Your Cooled Cookies: Once your cookies are completely cool, use this luscious frosting to top them.

Frosting and Decorating Your Carrot Cake Cookies

Once your irresistible cream cheese frosting is ready and your cookies are cooled, it’s time for the fun part: decorating! Here are a few ways to frost your cookies, from simple to festive.

Simple Piping: For an elegant touch, transfer some frosting into a ziplock bag. Snip a small hole in one corner of the bag and pipe a thin, even layer of cream cheese frosting onto each cookie. For added texture and a classic look, sprinkle some shredded coconut on top of the piped frosting. This method is quick, easy, and yields beautiful results.
Festive Carrot Decorations: To create adorable mini carrots on your cookies, divide a portion of your cream cheese frosting into two small bowls. In one bowl, add a few drops of orange food coloring gel and mix until you achieve a vibrant orange hue. In the other, add green food coloring gel for the “carrot tops.” Transfer each colored frosting into separate ziplock bags, snip tiny holes in the corners, and pipe small carrot shapes onto the cookies. You can create a small orange triangle for the carrot body and a few green lines for the leafy top. These are perfect for Easter or spring gatherings!
Easy Spreading: If you prefer a more rustic look or want to save time, simply use an offset spatula or a butter knife to spread a generous layer of frosting onto each cookie. This method is straightforward and still delivers all the deliciousness.
Frosting Shortcut: For ultimate convenience, don’t hesitate to use store-bought cream cheese frosting from the baking aisle. While homemade frosting offers a superior flavor and texture, pre-made tubs are a fantastic option when you’re short on time. You’ll find them right next to the carrot cake mixes!

Creative Variations and Customization Ideas

Beyond making frosting carrots, there are endless ways to get creative and customize your carrot cake mix cookies. Personalizing your cookies makes them even more special for any event, from a casual get-together to a holiday celebration.

Toppings Galore:
- Sprinkles: A dash of colorful sprinkles can instantly brighten up your cookies, especially for birthdays or festive occasions.
- Chopped Nuts: Finely chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the classic carrot cake experience.
- Shredded Coconut: Toasted or plain shredded coconut provides a lovely texture and tropical hint. You can even dye some green with food coloring to resemble grass, perfect for a springtime “nest” theme.
- Candy Accents: For Easter, consider adding colorful jelly beans or mini Cadbury eggs to the center of each frosted cookie, creating a charming “bird’s nest” effect.
Flavor Enhancements for the Cookies:
- Extra Spices: If your cake mix isn’t spicy enough for your liking, consider adding an extra ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of ground ginger to the cookie dough for a warmer flavor profile.
- Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of fresh orange or lemon zest folded into the cookie dough can brighten the flavors and add a subtle zing.
Frosting Variations:
- Orange Zest Frosting: Add a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to your cream cheese frosting for a burst of citrus that complements the carrot flavor beautifully.
- Brown Butter Frosting: Brown the butter before making the cream cheese frosting for a nutty, caramelized depth of flavor.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand. These cookies are incredibly versatile, allowing you to dress them up or keep them simple, making them perfect for any celebration!

Storing Your Delicious Carrot Cake Cookies

To keep your carrot cake cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key.

Store frosted carrot cake cookies in a tightly sealed airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration.
Unfrosted cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
Freezing:
- Unfrosted Cookies: Place completely cooled unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
- Frosted Cookies: For best results, it’s generally better to freeze unfrosted cookies and frost them after thawing. If you must freeze frosted cookies, freeze them on a baking sheet until the frosting is solid, then carefully transfer to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw in the refrigerator. Note that the frosting’s texture might be slightly altered after freezing and thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Cake Mix Cookies

Can I use any brand of carrot cake mix?

Yes, most standard 15.25-ounce boxes of carrot cake mix will work perfectly for this recipe. Brands like Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, or Pillsbury are common and reliable choices.

Do I have to use the cream cheese frosting?

While the cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing and highly recommended, the cookies are also incredibly delicious on their own! If you prefer them unfrosted, they’re still a wonderful spiced treat, especially if you load them with plenty of flavorful add-ins.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?

Cake mix cookie dough is naturally a bit thicker and stickier than traditional cookie dough. If it’s too difficult to handle, you can lightly flour your hands or chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before scooping.

Can I add other spices to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! If you love a bolder spice flavor, feel free to add an extra ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, or a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the cake mix before mixing.

How can I make the cookies uniform in size?

Using a cookie scoop is the best way to ensure all your cookies are the same size, which helps them bake evenly. A 2-tablespoon scoop works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead and store them unfrosted, then frost them just before serving.

What’s the best way to serve these cookies?

These carrot cake cookies are wonderful on their own with a cup of coffee or tea, a glass of milk, or as a delightful dessert after any meal. They are particularly popular for spring brunches, Easter celebrations, or simply as a comforting snack.

Enjoy Your Easy Carrot Cake Mix Cookies!

There’s something truly special about the sweet aromas and comforting taste of these easy carrot cake mix cookies with cream cheese frosting. Their delightful blend of spiced cake and creamy tang makes them a beloved treat for any season. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring every bite yourself, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for this fantastic carrot cake cookie recipe, why not whip up a batch today? Don’t forget to share your delectable creations with us in the comments below or on social media using the hashtag #carrotcakecookies. Happy baking!

More Fun Spring and Easter Ideas!

Ultimate Carrot Cake
Easter Carrot Cake Cupcakes
Carrot Cake Poke Cake
Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Bars
45 Awesome Easter & Spring Desserts
Carrot Cake Truffles

Recipe Summary: Easy Carrot Cake Mix Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

With just a few simple ingredients, you can effortlessly make these delicious Carrot Cake Mix Cookies, perfectly topped with a sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are a quick and satisfying dessert.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10-12 mins
Course: Dessert
Servings: 18 Cookies
Keyword: cake mix, carrot cake, cookies, easter, spring dessert

Ingredients

Carrot Cake Mix Cookies

1 box Carrot Cake Mix, 15.25-ounce (I used Duncan Hines)
2 large eggs
½ cup oil
1 cup of add-ins (we used white chocolate chips, walnuts, and coconut, but you could use raisins or chocolate chips as well)

Cream Cheese Frosting

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Carrot Cake Mix Cookies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
Using a mixer, beat carrot cake mix, eggs, and oil on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase speed to medium for a minute. Scrape down the sides and make sure everything is mixed in. The batter will be thick.
Fold in any add-ins, such as white chocolate chips, coconut, and walnuts.
Use a 2 tablespoon cookie scoop or drop by rounded heaping tablespoons onto a baking sheet. Press down slightly with your fingers to flatten.
Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool for a couple of minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Make the frosting and ensure cookies are completely cooled before frosting. (They are also super amazing without the frosting, especially with white chocolate chips!)

Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a mixer, beat butter and cream cheese until creamy, well-combined, and lump-free.
Add vanilla extract and salt and stir well to combine.
With mixer on low, gradually add powdered sugar until completely combined.
Use to frost completely cooled cookies.

How to Frost & Decorate Cookies

To frost the cookies, you can use a ziplock bag filled with frosting, snipping a hole in one corner to pipe a thin layer of cream cheese frosting. Garnish with shredded coconut or other toppings. For festive carrots, color small portions of frosting orange and green with food coloring gel, then pipe carrot shapes onto the cookies using separate ziplock bags with small snipped holes. Alternatively, frost with an offset spatula or butter knife for a simpler approach. Feel free to add chopped walnuts, sprinkles, jelly beans, or any desired decorations. Get creative with what you have!

Notes

Store frosted carrot cookies in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. Unfrosted cookies can be stored at room temperature for 3-4 days.