As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of baking cookies sparked a flood of cozy fall memories—those days spent apple picking, warm caramel drizzled over everything, and the laughter shared among friends. In this delightful spirit, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. These soft and chewy treats not only capture the essence of autumn with real apple pieces and gooey caramel but also provide an effortless baking experience that saves you from pricey bakery stops. With quick prep and a crowd-pleasing flavor profile, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging after a long day. Wouldn’t you love to bite into one of these blissful cookies while sipping your favorite seasonal beverage? Let’s get started!
Why Are These Cookies Special?
Indulgence Awaits: These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are nothing short of heavenly, combining sweet apple pieces and rich caramel for a truly luxurious bite.
Effortless Baking: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in a flash. No need to worry about complicated techniques!
Fall Flavors: Every cookie is infused with warm spices, perfectly capturing the essence of autumn. They are a treat that evokes cozy memories with every chew.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress. Serve them alongside warm vanilla ice cream or your favorite seasonal drink for the ultimate indulgence!
Easy Storage: Stash any leftovers in an airtight container—if there are any! For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully.
Pair them with a glass of milk or even a slice of warm apple pie for an unforgettable experience. Want more cookie inspiration? Try the Millies Cookies Bake for delightful variations!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Apple – Provides flavor and texture; use Granny Smith for tartness, or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Substitution Note: Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples can be used for a sweeter flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Prep Note: Ensure butter is at room temperature for proper creaming.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and contributes to texture.
- Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies. Warning: Avoid overmixing after adding flour to maintain softness.
- Sugar – Sweetens cookies; use both white and dark brown for depth of flavor.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light cookie.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) – Enhances the fall flavor profile.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Gives a creamy texture to the frosting. Substitution Note: For a lighter frosting, you can substitute mascarpone.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Caramel Sauce – Adds flavor to the frosting and as a topping.
These delectable Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are a sweet reminder of autumn bliss!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add a mix of flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture becomes clumpy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool completely while you move on to the cookie dough.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and a blend of white and brown sugar using a hand mixer, beating for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Add one egg, a splash of apple juice, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking soda, baking powder, and your choice of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to maintain the soft texture of the cookies.
Step 4: Portion the Cookies
Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking. This should yield about 12-15 cookies. For that signature Crumbl look, make sure each dough ball is heaped high.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should have set edges and slightly underbaked centers that will continue to cook as they cool, creating that perfect chewy texture.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, whipping until light and fluffy, perfect for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each cookie with the creamy mixture. Top them with diced apple pieces, sprinkle with the cooled streusel you prepared earlier, and finish with a drizzle of caramel over the top for that delightful autumn touch.
Storage Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain softness and flavor.
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Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
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Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and frost as desired.
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Reheating: To bring back their delightful softness, warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies just like the first bite!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix things up and let your creativity shine with these enticing twists on the classic recipe!
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Gluten-Free: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free alternative. The texture remains moist and decadent!
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Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. This adds a wonderful texture contrast that complements the soft cookies perfectly.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick! This warmth enhances the fall spices beautifully, making every bite exciting.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead for a vegan-friendly version. The flavors remain indulgent, and your friends likely won’t even notice the difference!
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Savory Twist: Mix in crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-savory combination that’s truly memorable. It’s a creative way to elevate these already delightful cookies!
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Fruity Flavor: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of flavor and chewiness. This fruity addition pairs beautifully with caramel and apples, reminiscent of autumn harvests.
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Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cookies or mix in chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey twist. The marriage of apple, caramel, and chocolate is simply divine!
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Frosting Variations: For the frosting, replace cream cheese with a rich, chocolate ganache or a maple-flavored buttercream for an exciting twist on flavor. It’ll be like switching up the classic for a fun adventure!
Think of these variations as an invitation to explore! You can also dive into delightful baking inspirations like Cool Whip Cookies for more ideas to spark joy in your kitchen.
What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies is just one part of a lovely autumn meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Cold Milk: There’s nothing quite like a classic pairing, and the crisp, refreshing taste of cold milk balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your warm cookies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. That melty goodness complements the soft cookie with each bite.
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Hot Apple Cider: Embrace the seasonal flavors with a cup of warm apple cider. This drink enhances the apple notes and warms you from the inside out while adding a cozy touch.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize perfectly with the cinnamon and nutmeg in your cookies, creating a comforting experience that’ll chase the chill away.
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Gingerbread Cookies: For a themed dessert table, pair these cookies with spicy gingerbread cookies. Their distinct flavors create a diverse yet complementary treat for all to enjoy.
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Pumpkin Pie: The rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin pie make a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of caramel apple cookies and create a festive atmosphere during the fall season.
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Caramel Drizzle: Go the extra mile by serving extra warm caramel sauce on the side for dipping. It’s an irresistible addition that enhances the overall cookie eating experience!
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making it a perfect companion for those cozy moments with your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
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Cheese Board: Combine sweet and savory by serving a small cheese platter with your cookies. Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese will elevate the flavors, creating an irresistible balance.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the warm flavors of fall without the last-minute hassle. You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; just scoop and shape the dough balls, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. If you prefer, bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days—they’ll remain just as soft and chewy! When you’re ready to serve, simply frost them after they’ve cooled and add the final toppings to maintain that fresh, homemade quality. Enjoy the delight of freshly baked cookies without cutting into your busy schedule!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
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Right Apple Choice: Use Granny Smith for a zesty bite or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Your chosen apple enhances the overall flavor of the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix your dough just until combined to maintain that soft and chewy texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother frosting. Cold ingredients can cause lumps.
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Pat Apples Dry: Before adding apple pieces into the dough, pat them dry and toss in flour to prevent extra moisture from making the cookies soggy.
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Watch Baking Time: Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked for optimal softness. They finish cooking on the baking sheet as they cool.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, I recommend using Granny Smith apples for a delightful tartness, or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter option. If you’re looking for more sweetness, Braeburn apples could also be a great alternative.
How should I store leftover cookies?
I often store my cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and delicious. If you have a little more time to spare, refrigerating them in a sealed container extends their freshness to about a week. However, allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for that freshly baked taste!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies! To do so, I suggest freezing the unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just remove the cookies from the freezer, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and then frost them as desired.
What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your cookie dough is too sticky, there are a few steps you can take. First, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up and makes it easier to scoop. If it’s still too sticky after chilling, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach your desired consistency, but be careful not to overmix!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
It’s important to be mindful of allergies! These cookies contain common allergens including wheat (in the flour), butter, and dairy (in the cream cheese). If you’re baking for someone with specific dietary needs, I recommend experimenting with a gluten-free flour blend and plant-based butter to cater to gluten and dairy restrictions while still enjoying the heavenly flavors.
How long can I keep the frosted cookies?
Frosted Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving so those delightful flavors can shine through. Enjoy every last bite!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies That Taste Like Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add a mix of flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until clumpy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and a blend of white and brown sugar, beating for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Add one egg, a splash of apple juice, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This should yield 12-15 cookies.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12 minutes until edges are set and centers slightly underbaked.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and caramel sauce, whipping until light and fluffy.
- Once cookies are completely cooled, frost each cookie generously, topping with diced apple pieces, streusel, and a drizzle of caramel.
