If you adore the warm spices of classic carrot cake but crave a fun twist, this Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Imagine tender, spiced cookies bursting with fresh grated carrots, crunchy pecans, and sweet raisins, all hugging a luscious cream cheese filling that’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, just right. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to brighten your day with a delightful homemade snack, these sandwich cookies bring a burst of cozy flavor and texture in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three bright orange carrots laying side by side on a dark gray cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. To the right of the carrots is a shiny, metal box grater standing upright with its handle facing up. In the background, slightly out of focus, there are two white eggs, a small black bowl filled with golden raisins, a small golden measuring cup, and a block of pale yellow butter stacked on the white marbled surface, all against a backdrop of white subway tiles. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a beautiful medley of flavors and textures. Each component is essential—from the fragrant cinnamon that gives warmth, to the fresh carrots that keep these cookies moist and tender while adding a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure to hold the cookies without being too dense.
3/4 cups granulated sugar: Adds light sweetness and helps with cookie browning.
3/4 cups lightly packed brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise and stay tender.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a little extra lift for a softer cookie.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives carrot cake its signature warm flavor.
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb.
1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all other flavors beautifully.
1 1/2 cups grated carrots (about 3 carrots): Keeps cookies moist and adds natural sweetness and texture.
1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1/2 cup golden raisins: Little pockets of sweetness for surprise bites.
Cream Cheese Filling: 8 ounces cream cheese, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 3/4 – 1 cup sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that creamy, tangy finish.

How to Make Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This spice and leavening blend is the foundation of those irresistible flavors and perfect cookie texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter Into the Dry Mix

Cut your softened butter into tablespoons and gradually add to the dry ingredients while mixing at low speed. Keep mixing for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture resembles wet sand. This technique coats the flour in butter and ensures a tender and crumbly cookie bite.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

With your mixer running on low, add the egg and vanilla extract. Stir just until incorporated; overmixing can make the cookies tough, so gentle and quick is the way to go. Don’t worry if the dough looks a little crumbly—it will come together beautifully once the carrots and nuts join the party.

Step 4: Incorporate Carrots, Pecans, and Raisins

Fold in the grated carrots, chopped pecans, and golden raisins using a wooden spoon or low mixer speed. These ingredients bring moisture, crunch, and a natural sweetness that makes this Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe so exciting and unique.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared sheets, giving each cookie at least 2 inches of breathing room. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cookie edges turn a lovely golden brown. If baking two sheets at the same time, swap their positions halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Cool Before Filling

Let the cookies rest on the baking tray for 5 minutes after baking—this is crucial because it helps them set and prevents breakage when transferring. Finish cooling them on a wire rack while you whip up that dreamy cream cheese filling.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 3/4 cup and adjusting to taste, then mix in the vanilla extract. This luscious frosting is the perfect partner to the spiced cookies.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cookie Sandwiches

Spread a generous dollop of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly in between. Repeat until all cookies are paired. And just like that, you have irresistible Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies ready for sharing.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe

A white plate holds six sandwich cookies stacked in a loose pile. Each sandwich cookie has two light brown, textured cookies with visible small bits of carrot and pecan, and a thick layer of smooth white cream filling in the middle. The cookies look soft and slightly lumpy with an uneven surface. The background shows a white marbled surface with blurred small bowls of golden raisins and scattered pecans. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the textures of the cookies and cream filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top adds a festive touch. You can also drizzle some honey or a thin glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar to add a bright, zesty flair that pairs beautifully with the spice.

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm chai latte—the spices complement each other wonderfully. For an afternoon treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the sandwich cookies on a pretty platter for parties or gifting them in a rustic box tied with twine for a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also sandwich mini carrot cake cookies on sticks for cookie pops, making a whimsical dessert that’s fun for kids and adults alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves their tender bite and cream cheese freshness perfectly without any drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies once assembled by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then stacking with parchment paper between layers in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

While these cookies are delightful cold or at room temperature, if you want a slight warm-up, pop single sandwich cookies into the microwave for about 10 seconds. This brings the filling back to soft, luscious perfection without melting or losing the cookie structure.

FAQs

Can I substitute nuts in the Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts make a great alternative, offering a similar crunch and earthiness that complements the carrots beautifully.

How do I grate carrots quickly for this recipe?

The easiest way is using a box grater on the medium side or a food processor with a grating attachment—either method helps you get fine, even shreds that blend perfectly into the dough.

Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?

Yes, because baking soda neutralizes the acidity from the brown sugar and cream cheese, while baking powder provides extra leavening for soft, fluffy cookies without being cakey.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

For sure! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Just bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before assembling the cookies.

What’s the best way to prevent the cookies from falling apart?

Letting them cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before moving is key because it allows the cookies to firm up and hold their shape as they finish setting.

Final Thoughts

You simply cannot go wrong with this Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of classic flavors, textures, and a creamy filling that will win over family and friends every time you bake it. Whether you’re trying something new or indulging your love for carrot cake in a bite-sized way, these cookies are a true crowd-pleaser worth savoring. So grab your grater and mixer, and let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen!