As the crisp autumn air fills our home with a sense of warmth and nostalgia, my cravings shift toward homemade treats that capture the essence of fall. That’s where these Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies come into play! With their scrumptious balance of tart apple chunks, gooey caramel, and a delightful cream cheese frosting, these cookies are not just a delicious way to celebrate the season—they’re a breeze to whip up, too. Perfect for cozy evenings with loved ones or as a sweet surprise at gatherings, they promise moments of joy without the hassle of intricate baking. Are you ready to bake your way to fall memories with these cookies?
Why Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Are Irresistible?
Warm, these cookies evoke the comforting essence of fall with each delightful bite.
Decadent, the layers of gooey caramel and cream cheese frosting create a sweet harmony that will make your taste buds sing.
Customizable, swap in your favorite apple varieties like Honeycrisp or add nuts for a delightful crunch!
Quick & Easy, whip these treats up in under 30 minutes, perfect for those spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowd-Pleaser, everyone—from kids to adults—will adore this nostalgic combination of flavors, making them an instant hit at any occasion!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Base
- Granny Smith Apples – Provide tartness and hold shape during baking; substitute with Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for proper creaming.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps with leavening.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the cookies; use pure extract for the best flavor.
- Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; stick with all-purpose flour and avoid overmixing for tenderness.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Activate leavening for a soft and chewy texture.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
- Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) – Warm, seasonal spices that enhance flavor and evoke fall vibes.
For the Sweet Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy base for the frosting; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection, giving it the right consistency.
- Caramel Sauce – Adds a drizzle of sweetness; don’t hold back on this delicious addition!
For the Topping
- Caramel Sauce – An extra drizzle on top of the frosting enhances the sweetness.
- Diced Apples – Use for garnish, ensuring they are patted dry to prevent sogginess.
- Streusel – Mix of melted butter, flour, sugar, and spices; adds a delightful crunch to your cookies.
Now you’re all set to bring the aroma of Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies to your kitchen and create those warm, memory-filled moments! 🍏✨
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Begin by washing and peeling the Granny Smith apples before dicing them into pea-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps to maintain cookie texture during baking. Set the diced apples aside while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), readying for the delightful Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar using an electric mixer. Cream the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract, mixing just until all ingredients are combined smoothly without overmixing to achieve the best texture.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground spices, and salt. This critical step ensures the even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your dough. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to prevent tough cookies, keeping the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies tender and chewy.
Step 4: Fold in Apples
Gently fold the prepared diced apples into the cookie dough, taking care not to mash them. This adds that delightful apple flavor to every bite. Once incorporated, use a cookie scoop to portion out 1/4 cup of the dough onto a lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s ample space between each scoop to allow for spreading as they bake.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on your cookies; you’ll know they are done when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly underbaked. This will ensure your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies emerge soft and chewy from the oven.
Step 6: Cool on the Baking Sheet
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5-7 minutes. This helps the centers firm up while keeping that warm, gooey texture. After cooling, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ready for the splendid frosting and toppings.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and caramel sauce, mixing continuously until the frosting becomes light and fluffy. Ensure there are no lumps for a beautiful finish on your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with the creamy frosting. To elevate your presentation, sprinkle the top with diced apples, a sprinkle of streusel, and drizzle with additional caramel sauce for that extra flair. Your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are now beautifully decorated and ready to be cherished!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just scoop it into balls and refrigerate them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. This method keeps the dough fresh while allowing the flavors to meld. The diced apples can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead—just pat them dry after cutting to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to bake, simply proceed with the instructions as usual, adding a few extra minutes to adjust for baking from chilled dough. Enjoy the same mouthwatering flavor while saving time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
A warm plate of cookies fresh from the oven is an invitation to create sweet moments with family and friends.
- Cold Milk: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies with its refreshing chill—perfect for dunking!
- Warm Coffee: The coffee’s rich, bold flavor contrasts beautifully with the gooey sweetness of the caramel apple cookies, making it an ideal companion.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the flavors of fall with this creamy drink that enhances the apple and spice notes of the cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve it on the side or atop a warm cookie for a delightful, melty treat that cools down the sweetness.
- Apple Cider: Get into the harvest spirit with this classic beverage that complements the apple flavor while warming your soul.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A little extra drizzle atop each cookie adds a burst of sweetness, turning dessert into an indulgence.
- Cheesecake Bars: Offering a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, they’re a hit for gatherings of all kinds—sweet meets savory.
- Nutty Granola: Add a light crunch and fabric of textures by pairing these cookies with a handful of nutty granola for a joyful bite.
Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
-
Room Temperature Essentials: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature; this helps achieve a smooth batter for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies and creamy frosting.
-
Proper Apple Prep: Pat your diced apples dry with paper towels before mixing them in. This prevents excess moisture, ensuring your cookies stay perfectly chewy.
-
No Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix the flour – a common mistake! Mixing just until combined keeps your cookies tender and light.
-
Watch for Underbaking: Pull the cookies out of the oven just before they look done; slight underbaking guarantees a chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
-
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap apples or add nuts! Just remember the moisture level can change, so adjust accordingly.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Feel free to enjoy these cookies your way—let your creativity shine through every delicious bite!
-
Apple Variety: Swap out Granny Smith for Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter twist. The flavor and texture will take your cookies to new heights!
-
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. The nuttiness complements the caramel and apple beautifully, creating a more complex flavor profile.
-
Oatmeal Delight: Mix in rolled oats for added texture. This heartiness enhances the cookies, giving them a pleasing chewiness reminiscent of a cozy oatmeal cookie.
-
Dried Fruits: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity burst. This sweet addition adds another layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tart apples.
-
Spicy Kick: Increase the spice blend by adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a warm heat. It’s surprising but delightful, balancing the sweet and spicy notes.
-
Frosting Flavor: Stir in cinnamon or a hint of maple syrup into your frosting. These flavors beautifully enchant the cream cheese, giving a seasonal flair to every cookie.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips—dark, white, or milk—for saucy richness. The combination of caramel, apple, and chocolate is simply irresistible!
-
Caramel Swirl: Instead of drizzling caramel on top, swirl it into the cookie dough for surprises in every bite. Each cookie will have pockets of gooey goodness throughout!
For inspiration, check out these delightful ideas: Cinnamon Roll Cookies or Apple Fries Sweet that are sure to bring warmth to your kitchen. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, placing a slice of bread inside to help retain moisture and keep them soft.
Fridge: For prolonged freshness, refrigerate cookies for up to 1 week. Before serving, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Frost fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until they’re warm and inviting.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apples for my Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using Granny Smith apples as they provide a wonderful tartness that balances the sweetness of the caramel. When selecting apples, look for those that are firm and free from dark spots. Honeycrisp apples make a lovely substitute if you prefer a sweeter cookie.
What is the best way to store Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For added moisture, place a slice of bread inside the container—this little trick works wonders! Alternatively, if you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week; just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your unfrosted cookies, first, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply frost them after they’ve thawed slightly—this keeps the frosting fresh and delightful!
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
Very often, if your dough feels dry, it might be due to over-measuring flour or not enough moisture ingredients. If this happens, simply add a tablespoon of milk or additional apple juice to the dough to reach the right consistency. Remember, it’s always better to add liquid gradually until the dough holds together without being overly sticky.
Are these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies safe for pets or kids with allergies?
While these cookies are fantastic for humans to enjoy, keep in mind they contain ingredients like sugar and butter that aren’t suitable for pets. If you or your loved ones have allergies (like to dairy), I recommend substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and using egg replacers. Tailoring recipes to your dietary preferences is truly the way to go!
How long will my baked cookies stay fresh?
The Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before indulging for the best flavor and texture!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies That Taste Like Fall Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the apples by washing, peeling, and dicing them into pea-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels and set aside.
- Cream the softened butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground spices, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate into the wet mixture.
- Fold in the diced apples gently. Use a cookie scoop to portion out 1/4 cup of dough on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes, until edges are set and centers are slightly underbaked.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and caramel sauce until fluffy.
- Frost cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting and top with diced apples, streusel, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Leave a Reply