Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe

If you love waking up to something that feels both indulgent and wholesome, then you’ll adore this Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe. These cookies are the perfect way to transform the classic flavors of carrot cake into a grab-and-go breakfast that’s packed with oats, warm spices, and a touch of natural sweetness. With every bite, you’ll get a delightful mix of tender shredded carrots, crunchy walnuts, and chewy raisins—making mornings feel a little brighter and a lot more delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one brings a unique texture and flavor, from the moistness of the applesauce to the nutty depth of almond flour, creating a perfectly balanced cookie that’s as healthy as it is tasty.

• 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, plus vibrant color.
• 1 cup rolled oats: Provides heartiness and a chewy texture to these cookies.
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour: Offers a nutty flavor while keeping the cookies wholesome.
• 1/2 cup almond flour: Brings a soft crumb and delicate nuttiness.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a natural sweetener and keeps the cookies moist.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds rich, subtle sweetness with a hint of caramel.
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Gives the cookies a tender crumb and slight tropical aroma.
• 1/2 cup raisins: Offers chewy bursts of sweetness that pair perfectly with spices.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and earthy flavor to balance the softness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and classic carrot cake spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise light and fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the sweet and nutty flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances depth and aroma of the cookies.
• 1 egg: Binds all the ingredients together for perfect structure.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle spicy note that complements cinnamon.
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional): Offers extra texture and a hint of tropical sweetness.

How to Make Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This small prep step ensures that your cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly to a lovely golden-brown.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Combine the shredded carrots, rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and almond flour in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout each cookie.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil. Stir everything together well to blend the moisture with the oats and flours, creating a beautiful dough base that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices, Nuts, and Fruit

Next, add in the raisins, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. These ingredients bring wonderful contrasts of texture and taste—from sweet and fruity to warm and nutty.

Step 5: Beat in the Egg

In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly, then mix it into the cookie dough. This act of binding ensures your cookies will hold together while staying soft and tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Sprinkle in the nutmeg and shredded coconut if you’re using it, giving the dough an extra, delightful layer of flavor complexity and texture.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form dough balls and place them onto the lined baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. This spacing gives them room to spread slightly into perfectly sized cookies.

Step 8: Flatten the Dough

Press down gently on each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your palm to form classic cookie shapes that will bake evenly through.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. This timing keeps them soft in the center while offering a slight crispness on the outside.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling preserves their perfect texture and makes them easier to enjoy any time of day.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Give your cookies an extra touch by sprinkling a bit of finely chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top. These little garnishes enhance the rustic look and add a flavorful crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea, a creamy latte, or even a glass of fresh orange juice for a balanced breakfast or snack. Their natural sweetness complements both warm and cold beverages beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies with a spread of cream cheese or almond butter between them to create mini sandwich cookies. They also taste amazing crumbled over Greek yogurt for a carrot cake-inspired parfait that’s as fun to eat as it is nourishing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your baked carrot cake breakfast cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and soft, ready to grab whenever hunger strikes.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, freezing is perfect. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To warm the cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds or heat gently in a toaster oven. This will revive their soft, comforting texture and aroma just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats and substitute the whole wheat flour with an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for a safe and delicious gluten-free version of this Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe.

What can I use instead of eggs?

A great vegan substitute is a flax egg made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for a few minutes to gel before adding to the dough.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Yes, these cookies are a kid-friendly way to sneak in veggies and wholesome ingredients. They are sweet but not overly sugary, making them perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruit?

Definitely! Feel free to swap walnuts with pecans or almonds, and replace raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates to customize the flavor to your liking.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for about 4 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to start the day on a joyful note. They bring together cozy flavors and nourishing ingredients in such a simple and satisfying way. Whether you’re rushing out the door or relaxing with a cup of coffee, these cookies hit the spot every time. Give them a try—you might just find your new morning obsession!

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