As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar scents of cinnamon and fresh apples wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn afternoons. These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are my antidote to the hustle of life, combining the warmth of home-baked goodness with the indulgence of sweet caramel. Effortlessly soft and chewy, these cookies bring that bakery allure right to your table without the hefty price or long wait. They’re not just a treat; they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly evening. Curious about how easy it is to make a batch? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Unmatched Flavors: The fusion of fresh apples with gooey caramel creates a delightful harmony that captures the essence of fall. Simple Steps: Even beginner bakers will find success with this recipe, requiring only essential baking skills. Perfectly Soft: Each cookie boasts a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth. Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are ideal for festive gatherings or a cozy night in, winning over friends and family alike. If you love comforting treats, this recipe will remind you of warm apple pie or a decadent dessert like Apple Crumble Cheesecake but in cookie form!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Butter – Provides richness and tenderness; use unsalted for better control over salt levels.
- Cream Cheese – Adds moisture and a creamy texture to the frosting; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier incorporation.
- White Sugar – Sweetens and helps with cookie spread; substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and chewiness; dark brown sugar gives even more molasses flavor.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and contributes to cookie structure.
- Apple Juice Concentrate – Enhances apple flavor; can replace with applesauce for a different texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Main structure for cookies; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Leavening agents that help cookies rise.
- Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice – Warm spices that enhance fall flavors; adjust amounts based on personal taste.
- Granny Smith Apples – Tartness balances the sweetness; ensure to pat dry after dicing.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting, contributing to its fluffy texture.
- Caramel Sauce – For drizzling on top; use homemade or store-bought to elevate your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Now that you know what you need to bring these cookies to life, let’s get baking! Get ready for a delicious autumn experience that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release for the cookies once baked. This step sets the stage for those warm, gooey cookies we all love!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a skillet, melt cold unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring continuously until it becomes a golden liquid. Once melted, add in a mixture of flour, white sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, mixing until small clumps form. Continue to toast this blend for about 5–7 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown, then remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled butter mixture with softened unsalted butter, mixing vigorously until you achieve a fluffy consistency. Gradually add in white and brown sugars, continuing to beat until dissolved and creamy, about 3 minutes. This step infuses your cookies with that delightful buttery sweetness.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in one egg, apple juice concentrate, and vanilla extract into the buttery sugar mixture until everything is well combined. The mixture should appear smooth and slightly glossy, signaling the perfect incorporation of flavors for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and your choice of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which ensures a soft, chewy texture.
Step 6: Include the Apples
Toss diced Granny Smith apples in a little bit of flour to prevent them from becoming soggy, then fold them gently into the cookie dough. This step adds a lovely texture and tartness to your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, enhancing the overall flavor of the batch.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into 9 equal balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, allowing some space between them for spreading. The dough may be slightly sticky, but that’s okay! Each scoop will transform into a delicious cookie while baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, keeping an eye out for a lightly golden color around the edges. They may look slightly underbaked in the center, which is perfect, as they will continue cooking while cooling.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they set properly without falling apart, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they cool down.
Step 10: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and caramel sauce, mixing until fluffy and well combined. This luscious frosting will take your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies to the next level!
Step 11: Frost and Serve
Once your cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with your creamy caramel frosting. For an extra touch, decorate them with small pieces of diced apples and drizzle with additional caramel sauce. These finishing touches will make your cookies irresistible!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them cream together smoothly and results in a fluffier texture.
Avoid Overmixing: After you combine your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the cookies, taking away their delightful chewy texture.
Flour the Apples: Tossing the diced Granny Smith apples in a bit of flour prevents them from sinking in the dough and keeps your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies beautifully balanced.
Watch the Baking Time: Since cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet, remove them from the oven when they’re slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect soft bite.
Storage Secrets: For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Include a slice of bread to maintain moisture!
Make Ahead Options
Making these Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during a busy week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before popping them in the oven. For the frosting, you can make it up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just re-whip it briefly before frosting your cookies to keep that creamy texture. Enjoy the delight of fresh-baked cookies without the fuss on those busy days!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Get ready to bring your own twist to these delightful cookies, allowing your taste buds to explore new combinations!
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese for a deliciously creamy version. The cookies will still remain soft and flavorful!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This simple substitution will keep the gladness of baked goodness intact without gluten.
Spice Up: Replace the traditional spices with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist. This will add a warm, cozy flavor that resonates with autumn!
Nuts for Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. Nuts will provide a lovely contrast to the chewy cookie and enhance the nutty notes.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different apple varieties such as Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter cookie. You can even mix in dried cranberries for tartness and a pop of color!
Caramel Delight: Use caramel bits or pieces in the dough for an extra gooey texture. This tantalizing addition will make every bite a bit more indulgent.
Heat It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or use chili powder in the dough for a surprising kick that highlights the sweetness of the caramel and apples. It’s a unique flavor journey you won’t want to miss!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a harmonious blend of sweet chocolate and caramel apple goodness. This variation will make your cookies even richer!
With these variations, you’ll never run out of delightful reasons to bake your own Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies! For more baking inspirations, don’t forget to check out my Caramel Butterfinger Snow cookies and a luxurious Apple Crumble Cheesecake that will bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Indulge in the homey feelings of autumn by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary side dishes that enhance their sweetness.
- Warm Apple Cider: The cozy spices of hot apple cider elevate the flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting drink that captures fall’s essence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side offers a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies. Each bite is a heavenly combination!
- Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai tea harmonize wonderfully with the cinnamon in the cookies, making it the perfect beverage for a chilly afternoon.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a fun twist, serve these cookies after a cozy dinner of creamy mashed potatoes and hearty beef stew; the cookie sweetness exquisitely balances the savory notes.
- Cheese Board: Complement the cookies with a sliced apple and a sharp cheese; the tartness cuts through the sweetness and gives a delightful textural contrast.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a finishing touch by drizzling melted chocolate over every cookie; it enhances the indulgence and richness of caramel, creating an utterly irresistible treat.
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them soft and chewy. Adding a slice of bread helps retain moisture.
Fridge: If you’ve used cream cheese frosting, refrigerate cookies for up to 1 week. Make sure they are covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This reintroduces that fresh-baked feel, making your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies irresistible!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully. You can also experiment with Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples, but make sure they are firm to maintain the right texture in your cookies.
How should I store leftover cookies?
For the best freshness, keep your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies; it helps retain moisture wonderfully!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze unfrosted cookies, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to the butter being too warm or insufficient flour in the dough. Make sure to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, and if needed, add a bit more flour until you achieve a soft, but not overly sticky consistency.
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, use coconut sugar instead of white sugar for a lower glycemic alternative. Just ensure the caramel sauce is also gluten-free if you’re following that diet.
How long can I keep frosted cookies in the fridge?
Frosted cookies, especially those with cream cheese frosting, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure they are well covered to prevent them from drying out and losing their delicious texture.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies that Bring Cozy Fall Vibes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until golden liquid, then cool.
- In a bowl, mix cooled butter with softened butter until fluffy, then gradually add sugars until creamy.
- Beat in the egg, apple juice concentrate, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices; gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Toss diced apples in flour, then fold into the cookie dough.
- Scoop dough into 9 equal balls and place on the prepared baking sheet with space in between.
- Bake for 12 minutes until lightly golden around edges; cookies may look underbaked.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually mix in powdered sugar and caramel sauce.
- Frost cooled cookies generously with the frosting and top with diced apples and more caramel sauce.