As I stepped into my kitchen, the warm aroma of cinnamon and apples instantly transported me to autumn days spent at the orchard. Today, I’m sharing my take on Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies—an irresistible treat that combines tender cookie dough with delightful chunks of tart Granny Smith apples. Not only are these cookies a charming ode to fall, but they also boast a quick prep time that will have you enjoying homemade goodness in just over half an hour. Plus, with a luscious cream cheese caramel frosting, they’re sure to impress everyone at your gathering or simply satisfy your sweet tooth after a long day. Are you ready to bring a touch of sweetness to your baking routine? Let’s get started!
Why are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Warm, Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite is a cozy reminder of fall, with the perfect balance of sweet caramel and tart Granny Smith apples melting in your mouth.
Effortlessly Simple: With just 32 minutes from start to finish, these cookies fit perfectly into your busy day.
Unique Frosting Delight: Our luscious cream cheese caramel frosting brings a deliciously creamy contrast that is simply unforgettable.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or just a special treat at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite nuts or even swapping the apple for another fruit.
Once you’ve treated yourself, you might want to explore how these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies fit well with other delightful recipes like chocolate chip cookies or fall-inspired desserts for more cozy inspiration!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake the sweetest fall treat!
For the Cookie Dough
- Cold butter – makes for a rich, flaky texture; ensuring it’s cold is key!
- Sugar – sweetens the dough for a lovely contrast to the tart apples.
- Brown sugar – adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together and helps the cookies rise.
- Concentrated apple juice – enhances the apple flavor and keeps the dough moist.
- Vanilla extract – adds warmth and a fragrant aroma to the cookies.
- All-purpose flour – the backbone of your cookie dough, providing structure.
- Ground cinnamon – brings a cozy fall spice to every bite.
- Ground ginger – complements the apple and caramel notes beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg – a touch of warmth and earthiness to elevate flavors.
- Ground allspice – deepens the spice profile for a delightful complexity.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Baking soda – helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect texture.
- Baking powder – lifts the batter for a light and airy cookie.
- Granny Smith apple – diced to add bursts of tartness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – provides a smooth, rich base for the frosting that pairs wonderfully with caramel.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting, giving it that classic creamy texture.
- Caramel sauce – drizzled in for sweetness; use extra for a lavish finish!
For Topping (Optional)
- Additional caramel sauce – drizzle on top for that extra sweet touch.
- Streusel topping – adds a delightful crunch and texture contrast to the soft cookie.
These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are not just about the taste; they’re a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing (or not!). Let’s dive into the baking bliss!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure a clean release. This crucial first step sets the stage for baking your delightful Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies!
Step 2: Toast the Butter Mixture
In a medium skillet, melt the cold butter over medium heat until it’s completely melted. Remove the skillet from the heat and add in the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture until it forms clumps, then return it to the heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This process creates a wonderful base for your cookie dough, adding a delightful sweetness to your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 4: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugars until just combined. This step infuses moisture and rich flavors into your dough. Avoid overmixing, as you want these components combined smoothly without air beating into them.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This mixture is critical for flavor balance and to ensure your cookies rise beautifully. Whisking them together ensures an even distribution of spices throughout your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula, mixing until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky, with no visible flour remaining. This gentle mixing technique helps keep the cookies tender and fluffy.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a large cookie scoop (about ¼ cup), portion out 9 dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them evenly apart to allow for spreading as they bake. The anticipation builds as you prepare to transform these cookie balls into scrumptious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies!
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 12 minutes. Look for the edges to be slightly golden while the centers may appear underbaked. This slight underbaking keeps the cookies soft and chewy, which is a hallmark of the perfect Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential to ensure they set properly and are ready for frosting.
Step 10: Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and caramel sauce, whipping until fluffy and delightful. The frosting will perfectly complement the flavors of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, adding a rich creaminess.
Step 11: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each one with the caramel cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly over the top. The luscious frosting adds a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with the spiced apple cookie base.
Step 12: Add Toppings
Finish off by topping each frosted cookie with diced green apple, a sprinkle of prepared streusel topping, and an optional drizzle of additional caramel sauce for extra sweetness. These final touches make your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies not only delicious but visually stunning!
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container, where they’ll last up to a week. Enjoy them chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: To freeze, line the cookies in a single layer and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Now you can savor your delicious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies whenever the craving strikes!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle a little creativity into your baking with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for every bit of the delicious flavor without the gluten.
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Vegan: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the egg and substitute butter for coconut oil. These cookies will be a hit even without the dairy!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty depth that will make your cookies even more satisfying. The nutty aroma enhances the warm spice notes beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a gentle warmth that complements the sweetness of the caramel and apples. It’s a surprising twist that many will love!
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Apple-licious: Swap out Granny Smith apples for diced Honeycrisp or Fuji apples to infuse a different sweetness. Each variety offers a unique flavor profile that keeps your cookies refreshingly interesting.
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Caramel Drizzle Deluxe: Drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate alongside the caramel on top for a rich, indulgent contrast. The deep chocolate flavor will elevate every bite!
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Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top of the cookie dough balls for a crispy, sweet crust. This addition adds a delightful texture and visual appeal that’s hard to resist.
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Cream Cheese Variation: Mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the frosting for additional sweetness and color. Each cookie will be a surprise of flavors!
As you explore the versatility, don’t hesitate to check out some more cozy recipes, like our delicious chocolate chip cookies or even delightful fall-inspired desserts! Enjoy making these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
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Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter is crucial for that rich, flaky texture. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of soft, airy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
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Check for Doneness: Remember, cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool, keeping them chewy.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring beautiful presentation.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chopped nuts or different spices, like allspice, to customize your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies just the way you like them.
What to Serve with Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Create a delightful dessert experience that everyone will remember!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla complements the spiced apple flavors perfectly, creating a heavenly pairing.
- Hot Apple Cider: Embrace the cozy autumn vibes with a warm mug of apple cider, enhancing the fruity notes in each cookie.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheddars or creamy brie can contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a unique flavor balance.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: The rich spices of this beloved drink harmonize with the cookie's flavors, making it the ultimate fall treat pairing.
- Candied Nuts: Crunchy and sweet, nuts such as pecans or walnuts add a delightful texture and nutty flavor that enhances the cookie's warmth.
- Fruity Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries and citrus can cut through the sweetness, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Offer extra caramel sauce for those who crave a more indulgent treat; it adds luscious sweetness on top of each cookie.
Gather these perfect companions, and watch as your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies become the star of any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions to mix the dough, then cover and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick re-whip before frosting the cookies. When you're ready to enjoy these delightful treats, portion out the dough, bake them, and frost with the cream cheese caramel frosting for results that are just as delicious as when made fresh!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for these cookies?
Absolutely! Using Granny Smith apples is ideal for this recipe because their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel. Look for firm apples, free of dark spots or bruising, and ensure they are fresh. If Granny Smith isn't available, any tart, crisp apple will do!
How long can I store Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
You can keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours, then wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, thaw them on the counter or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread too much, it may be due to using softened butter instead of cold butter. Make sure you omit any liquids or stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe. You can also chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help prevent spreading.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
If you or your guests have allergies, you should be aware that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free cream cheese to accommodate those sensitivities. Always double-check the ingredients to ensure safety!
How do I achieve the perfect frosting consistency?
To get that dreamy, fluffy cream cheese frosting, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Begin beating them together until smooth, then gradually add in the powdered sugar and caramel sauce. If the frosting is too thick, try adding a teaspoon of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies That Will Melt Your Heart
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup cold butter makes for a rich, flaky texture
- 1 cup sugar sweetens the dough
- ½ cup brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor
- 1 large egg binds the ingredients together
- ¼ cup concentrated apple juice enhances the apple flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warmth and aroma
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour provides structure
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon brings cozy fall spice
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger complements apple and caramel
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg adds warmth and earthiness
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice deepens the spice profile
- ½ teaspoon salt balances the sweetness
- 1 teaspoon baking soda helps the cookies rise
- ½ teaspoon baking powder lifts the batter
- 1 large Granny Smith apple diced to add bursts of tartness
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese provides a smooth base
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting
- ¼ cup caramel sauce for sweetness and drizzle
For Topping (Optional)
- ¼ cup additional caramel sauce drizzle for extra sweetness
- ½ cup streusel topping adds crunch and texture
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium skillet, melt the cold butter over medium heat until completely melted. Remove from heat and stir in flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Portion out 9 dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake for approximately 12 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and caramel sauce, whipping until fluffy.
- Frost each cookie with the cream cheese caramel frosting.
- Top each cookie with diced green apple, streusel, and optional caramel sauce drizzle.
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