If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful twist on a classic dessert, then the Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These delightful little sandwiches take the warm, spiced goodness of carrot cake and transform it into soft, chewy cookies sandwiched with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for parties, snacks, or just a personal sweet escape, this recipe delivers every time with a beautiful balance of sweet, spice, and creamy indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with just a handful of ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect carrot cake cookie sandwiches. From the convenience of a box mix to the richness of cream cheese, every component adds to the flavor, texture, and moisture that make these cookies truly special.
- 1 box carrot cake mix: Provides the spiced base and carrot flavor, making the batter full of warmth and moisture.
- 2 eggs: Help bind the dough and add richness for that tender cookie texture.
- 1/3 cup oil: Adds needed fat that keeps the cookies soft and chewy instead of dry.
- 4 ounces cream cheese or neufchatel (softened): Base for the frosting, giving it that classic tang and creamy mouthfeel.
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened): Combines with cream cheese to make the frosting smooth and luscious.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold its structure.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a fragrant note that elevates the frosting’s flavor.
How to Make Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and lining your cookie sheets with parchment paper or a silpat for easy cleanup. In a bowl, beat together the carrot cake mix, eggs, and oil until fully combined. The batter will be thick and stiff, which is exactly what you want for these cookie sandwiches.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Using rounded teaspoons, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place these evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheets. Then, gently press each ball down with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to flatten them slightly. This step ensures the cookies bake evenly and hold their shape.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, until they’re set but still soft. Avoid overbaking to keep them chewy and tender. Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to rest on the pan for a couple of minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies are baking, start on the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy, fluffy, and ready to spread.
Step 5: Assemble Your Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Now for the fun part: assemble! Spread about a tablespoon of the cream cheese frosting on the bottom of half the cooled cookies. Top each frosted cookie with one of the remaining cookies to create sandwiches. Store these delicious treats in a sealed container in the fridge, unless you decide to dive in right away — no judgment here!
How to Serve Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra touch of charm and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped walnuts or shredded coconut on the frosting before sandwiching the cookies. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top adds an inviting aroma that complements the carrot cake spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookie sandwiches alongside a cup of warm chai tea or a frothy latte to highlight their cozy spice notes. For an indulgent touch, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert after a holiday meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the carrot cake cookie sandwiches on a rustic wooden platter for a charming, homey look. You could also stack them like mini cakes and tie with a colorful ribbon for gifting. For parties, place each sandwich in a decorative cupcake liner to make individual servings easy and cute.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days, making them an ideal make-ahead treat.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these ahead of time or save them for a special occasion, the unfrosted cookies freeze well. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw completely and then frost and assemble for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
Since these cookies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is optional. If you prefer a warm cookie sandwich, gently microwave an assembled cookie for 10 to 15 seconds just to soften the frosting slightly. Be careful not to melt it too much.
FAQs
Can I make the frosting without butter?
You can use all cream cheese for a tangier frosting, but combining butter and cream cheese helps achieve that perfect balance of creaminess and structure for spreading.
Is it okay to use a different cake mix flavor?
For this recipe, carrot cake mix is key to capturing the signature flavor, but you can experiment with spice cake mix for a slightly different but still delicious twist.
How do I make the cookies less sweet?
Reducing powdered sugar in the frosting slightly can help, but keep in mind that these are a dessert meant to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or raisins will give extra texture and flavor, making these sandwiches feel even more like traditional carrot cake.
What is the best way to serve these at a party?
Arrange them on a platter with some fresh fruit garnish and provide small plates and napkins. Individual cupcake liners for each sandwich make them easy to grab and go.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about biting into a Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Soft, spiced cookies paired with rich, tangy frosting create a dessert experience that’s both comforting and exciting. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try these at your next gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself. Once you make them, you’ll want to keep these little sandwich gems on your dessert rotation for good!
