These refreshing little bites are perfect for Santa's reindeer, the kids or for yourself! Whether the kids like icing or not, these cookies will not last long in your home. Crumbs and a licked spatula may be all the evidence you find.
PREP
25 min
COOK
12 min
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
Step 2
In a large bowl, using electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time until combined. Stir in carrot, vanilla and orange rind.
Step 3
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Gradually stir into butter mixture until combined.
Step 4
Stir in pecans.
Step 5
Using a heaping tbsp (15 mL) scoop dough onto prepared pan, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Using sugar dusted fork tines, press cookies down slightly. Bake for about 12 minutes or until cookies are golden on bottom.
Step 6
Repeat with remaining batter. Let cool on pan on rack for 5 minutes before removing to rack to cool completely.
Step 7
Cream Cheese Frosting: Meanwhile, in a bowl, beat cream cheese and orange rind until very soft and combined.
Step 8
Slowly beat in icing sugar until smooth.
Step 9
Once cookies are completely cooled, top each with a smear of frosting and sprinkle with orange sugar if desired.