Name: Decadent Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Light brown sugar works); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs for vegan); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Imitation may be used); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 cup Graham Cracker (Crushed); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1/2 cup Whipping Cream (Coconut cream is an alternative); 1/2 cup Caramel Ingredients (Butter, Brown Sugar, Salt, Vanilla) (Opt for pre-made caramel if short on time)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of melting butter and brown sugar filled the air, reminding me why I love baking so much. If you’re a fan of cookies that deliver a touch of joy with every bite, then these Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are about to become your new obsession. With a buttery graham cracker base, luscious cheesecake frosting, and a heavenly caramel drizzle, this indulgent dessert strikes the balance between sweet and salty perfectly. Not only are these cookies a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings, but they also come together in no time, making them a go-to for a cozy evening at home. Ready to elevate your dessert game with these luscious treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Decadent flavors: The fusion of rich cream cheese frosting and buttery caramel creates an unforgettable taste experience that dances on your palate.

Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have these delightful cookies in no time, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether at parties or cozy nights in, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends, just like the popular Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed favorites!

Versatile treats: Customize them with chocolate chips or a sprinkle of nuts, catering to every sweet tooth’s desires.

Perfect for sharing: Create sweet moments with loved ones by serving these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or at your next gathering, similar to the beloved Cinnamon Roll Cookies.

Get ready to fall in love with every gooey, delicious bite!

Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Butter – Softened for easy blending and rich flavor; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Ensures sweetness and structure; this ingredient is essential for achieving the right texture.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth with a hint of caramel flavor; light brown sugar works as a perfect substitute.
Eggs – Provide binding and moisture; flax eggs make a great vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; imitation vanilla may be used if you are in a pinch.
All-Purpose Flour – Contributes to the cookies’ structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive option.
Graham Cracker (Crushed) – Mimics the cheesecake crust’s flavor and texture; feel free to use crushed cookies for a twist.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; this staple cannot be omitted.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder – Crucial for leavening; both are needed for the perfect cookie rise.

For the Cheesecake Frosting

Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy and tangy frosting; dairy-free cream cheese options are available for alternative diets.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; no substitutes are advisable here.

For the Caramel Sauce

Whipping Cream – Adds a rich creaminess to the caramel; coconut cream is a delightful non-dairy substitute.
Caramel Ingredients (Butter, Brown Sugar, Salt, Vanilla) – Create a gooey topping that elevates the cookies; opt for pre-made caramel if short on time.

These Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are just a few ingredients away from your kitchen, so gather them up and prepare for a delicious baking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking, making it easy to lift those delicious Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies off the sheets later.

Step 2: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until fully combined. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and 1½ cups of crushed graham crackers, ensuring everything is blended yet not overmixed.

Step 3: Shape Cookies
Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, portion out the cookie dough and roll each ball in the remaining crushed graham crackers for extra flavor. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, flattening each piece slightly to about ¾-inch thick. Leave some space between each cookie for spreading as they bake, creating a perfect chewy texture.

Step 4: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden brown. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, which helps them firm up before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make Frosting
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until the mix is creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until it becomes fluffy and well-combined, resulting in a luscious frosting perfect for topping your cookies.

Step 6: Prepare Caramel Sauce
For the caramel, combine butter, brown sugar, salt, and whipping cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as it comes to a gentle boil, then allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened, showcasing a rich, golden color. After removing it from heat, mix in the vanilla and let it cool slightly to thicken further.

Step 7: Frost & Drizzle Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool and the frosting is ready, use a piping bag to pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cookie generously. Drizzle the homemade caramel sauce over the frosted cookies, allowing it to cascade down the sides for an irresistible finish. Set the cookies aside until the caramel firms up just a bit before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. Additionally, you can make the cheesecake frosting and caramel sauce up to 3 days ahead. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge, and just before serving, pipe the frosting on the cooled cookies and drizzle with caramel. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade cookies with minimal effort, just as delicious as if they were baked that day!

Expert Tips for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, creating a light and fluffy cookie texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when mixing your dough; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Stop once everything is just combined for that perfect chewy bite.
Cooling Times Matter: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without crumbling.
Pipe with Precision: Use a piping bag for frosting to give your cookies a professional look. It’s easier than it seems and adds a lovely touch!
Cool Caramel Drizzle: Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before drizzling it on top of the frosting to avoid melting it. This keeps your presentation gorgeous while enhancing flavors.
Storage Tips: For the best experience, store your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll remain fresh and delicious for days!

What to Serve with Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Savoring these cookies is only the beginning; let’s explore delightful pairings that elevate the experience!

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture perfectly contrasts the chewy cookies, enhancing their caramel notes and making each bite indulgent.
Fresh Brewed Coffee: A warm cup brings out the sweet and salty flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy moment that’s hard to resist.
Chocolate Milkshake: The cold, creamy delight balances the cookies’ richness, turning dessert into a decadent milkshake experience.
Salted Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Add more of that heavenly caramel sauce on the side to dip cookies, amplifying the flavor and leading to absolute bliss!
Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai cut through the sweetness, offering a wonderfully aromatic pairing that comforts the soul.
Berry Medley: Fresh strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet cookies, creating a colorful and refreshing balance.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and fluffy, it adds an airy texture that offsets the rich frosting, making every bite delightfully playful.
Sparkling Lemonade: The bright, tangy fizz of lemonade refreshes your palate and enhances the cookies’ flavors, making it the perfect drink for summer gatherings.

With these pairings, your sweet experience with Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies just got a whole lot sweeter!

Storage Tips for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful chewiness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Frost when ready to serve for the best experience.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies once frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight, then lightly heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before frosting with cream cheese and drizzling with caramel.

Variations of Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies, adding your unique touch to enhance their flavors and textures!

Crushed Oreo Base: Swap the graham cracker crust for crushed Oreo cookies for a deliciously chocolatey twist. The rich creaminess combined with the chocolate makes every bite a heavenly experience.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Stir in some chocolate chips into the dough for bursts of sweetness. This variation adds a melty surprise that will make these cookies even more indulgent.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate coarsely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture. The crunch will complement the creamy frosting beautifully, making it feel like a balanced dessert.
Almond Extract Option: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a more aromatic flavor profile. This substitution can elevate the taste, offering a slightly nutty nuance in every cookie.
Sea Salt Sprinkle: After drizzling the caramel, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. This adds an extra salty kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness, creating a delicious contrast.
Spiced Cookie Base: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced flavor. This twist will delight your taste buds, especially during the cozy fall and winter months.
Dairy-Free Adjustments: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese to make these cookies vegan-friendly. They still deliver on taste and texture without sacrificing the classic indulgence!
Pumpkin Version: Add a small amount of pumpkin puree to the dough for a seasonal twist. Combine it with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for cookies that celebrate the fall flavors, similar to our delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

These variations invite you to explore new flavors and textures while keeping true to the comforting essence of these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies!

Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, select ripe butter (softened but not melted) for a creamy texture. A great indicator of good cream cheese is its smoothness; avoid any that appears overly hard or grainy. Fresh eggs are always a must—look for those that are clean and without cracks, as they contribute to moisture and binding.

How should I store my leftover cookies?
Very! You can keep your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re worried about them drying out, popping them in the refrigerator works too—just ensure they’re well-sealed. They’ll last about a week but may lose some chewiness.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Certainly! I often freeze my cookies to enjoy later. Here’s how: First, allow the cookies to cool completely. Lay them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months unfrosted. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then frost and drizzle with caramel just before serving!

What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly?
No worries! If you find that your cookies have turned out overly crumbly, it could be due to too much flour or insufficient moisture. To fix this in the future, measure flour correctly (spoon and level it rather than scooping) and ensure your butter is properly softened before creaming. If your dough seems too dry, you can add an extra egg or a splash of milk to achieve that perfect consistency.

Are these cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe can be modified to suit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, use margarine instead of butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut cream for the caramel sauce. You can also replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Just ensure to check ingredient labels for any potential allergens.