Orange Carrot Cookies with Orange Cream Frosting

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.