Name: Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies: Your Cozy Fall Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened at room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier substitute); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (dark brown sugar recommended for richer taste); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened, Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative); 1 large Egg (or flax egg for a vegan option); 1/2 cup Concentrated Apple Juice (or apple cider as a substitute); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (no substitutions necessary); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour mix); 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) (adjust to taste); 2 cups Apples (Granny Smith recommended) (or Honeycrisp, finely chopped); 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Diced Apples (toss in flour to prevent sogginess); 1/2 cup Streusel (optional) (mix melted butter with flour, sugar, and spices)

The aroma of fresh-baked cookies can transport anyone to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and laughter. When I first tried to recreate the popular Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, I was excited to discover a treat that captures the essence of fall in each delightful bite. These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are not just soft and chewy; they are a celebration of sweet, gooey caramel and juicy apples. They’re perfect for satisfying those bakery cravings without the wait or the cost! Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great choice for busy weekends or spontaneous gatherings with family and friends. How tempting does it sound to have these deliciously comforting cookies ready in no time? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies So Irresistible?

Cozy Comfort: Picture yourself in a warm kitchen while these cookies bake and fill the air with delightful aromas—pure bliss!

Gooey Goodness: Each bite offers a delicious combination of tender apples and rich caramel, creating a comforting fall flavor.

Simple to Bake: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress family and friends.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by substituting different apples or adding nuts for extra crunch.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a Friday night treat or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to please.

For more wonderful apple-inspired recipes, check out my Oatmeal Apple Breakfast or indulge in some Apple Brownies Decadent for a delightful twist!

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Helps create a rich texture; soften it at room temperature for the best results.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to chewiness; coconut sugar can be a great healthier substitute.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; opt for dark brown sugar for an extra rich taste.
Cream Cheese – Keeps cookies moist and provides a smooth frosting; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
Egg – Binds the ingredients to achieve a chewy texture; a flax egg works as a vegan option.
Concentrated Apple Juice – Elevates the apple flavor; apple cider is an excellent substitute if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth to the flavor; no substitutions necessary here.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; gluten-free flour mixes are suitable alternatives.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential for rise and fluffiness; do not substitute for best results.
Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) – Creates a warm, inviting flavor profile; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Apples (Granny Smith recommended) – Adds texture and flavor; Honeycrisp or Braeburn will provide a sweeter bite.

For the Topping

Caramel Sauce – Essential for drizzling and enhancing the flavor; use store-bought or homemade for convenience.
Diced Apples – Chopped and sprinkled atop for freshness; lightly toss in flour to prevent them from getting soggy.
Streusel (optional) – For a crunchy topping; mix melted butter with flour, sugar, and spices for added texture.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating your delightful Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. Gather them, and let’s get baking those cozy fall treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your cozy baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This setup ensures that your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies will have a perfect base for baking!

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel
In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter until bubbly and fragrant. Stir in flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the mixture becomes crumbly. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the streusel turns golden brown and fragrant. Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take around 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated, creating a lovely base for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and a pinch of salt. This combination of dry ingredients will give your cookies the perfect rise and flavor. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Fold in Apples
Chop your apples into small, bite-sized pieces, patting them dry to prevent excess moisture. Gently fold the apple pieces into the cookie dough using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step not only adds delightful texture but also enhances the flavor of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 6: Portion the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a large tablespoon, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, placing them about 2 inches apart. You should see a lovely mixture of apple pieces peeking out from the dough. Aim for about 12 cookies per sheet. This spacing allows the cookies to spread comfortably while baking!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Don’t worry if the centers look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool. The aroma of the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies will fill your kitchen, giving you a sense of the deliciousness to come!

Step 8: Cool on Baking Sheet
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This process helps maintain their soft and chewy texture. You’ll want to allow those lovely scents to linger a bit longer before you frost them!

Step 9: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and your favorite caramel sauce, mixing until fluffy and well combined. This sweet, velvety frosting is what truly sets your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies apart!

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies have completely cooled, use a knife or spatula to generously frost each cookie with the caramel cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle diced apples and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of each cookie. This delightful presentation will make your treats even more enticing!

Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for better mixing and a smoother frosting consistency.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can be a common mistake that ruins their tender texture.

• Dry Your Apples: Pat diced apples dry before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to soggy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they’re best served slightly underbaked, as they’ll continue to firm up while cooling.

• Streusel Tips: If using streusel, let it cool completely before sprinkling on the cookies to maintain its crunch and avoid sogginess.

How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to one week; just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy after freezing, thaw cookies overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their chewiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious cookies with minimal effort! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Additionally, the chopped apples can be prepped the day before—toss them in a bit of flour to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, bake, and follow the frosting instructions once they cool. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies ready to delight your family any busy weeknight, just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make these cookies uniquely yours!

Sweet Apple Swap: Replace Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp for a sweeter bite that still offers a lovely texture.
Nutty Additions: Fold in walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist, adding a delightful contrast to the chewy cookie base.
Chocolatey Delight: Mix in chocolate chips to enhance the flavor profile; their melty goodness pairs beautifully with caramel and apples.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Frosting Variety: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a lighter vanilla glaze, keeping things simple while still delicious.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the caramel.
Oatmeal Twist: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for an added chewy texture and rustic flavor; it’s like a warm hug in cookie form!

And if you’re craving even more apple-inspired goodies, why not try my Apple Fritter Waffle for a brunch treat or indulge in some rich Lava Brownie Cookies for dessert? Happy baking!

What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Indulging in these delightful cookies creates the perfect opportunity for an enjoyable meal, bursting with flavors that warm the soul.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing that soaks right into the cookie, enhancing each sweet bite with creamy goodness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth richness of ice cream perfectly complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies; it’s a match made in heaven for dessert lovers.
Spiced Chai Tea: A warm, fragrant cup of spiced chai brings a cozy ambiance to your cookie experience, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, candied walnuts, and apple slices adds a crisp contrast, making for a well-rounded meal.
Caramel Drizzle Coffee: Sipping on a warm cup of coffee drizzled with caramel echoes the cookie’s flavors and warms you from the inside out.
Cinnamon Butter: Spread a thin layer of cinnamon butter over the cookies for an extra layer of warm spice that amplifies their deliciousness.
Fall Fruit Platter: A vibrant mix of pears, pomegranates, and dried figs enhances the seasonal experience while adding a fresh element to your snack table.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embracing the festive spirit, the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices mirror those in the cookies, creating a delightful pairing.
Toffee Pudding: Serve a slice of warm toffee pudding alongside the cookies for a luxurious dessert experience that’s sweet and indulgent.

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Absolutely! For these cookies, I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the caramel. Honeycrisp or Braeburn varieties also work beautifully if you prefer a sweeter cookie. When selecting apples, look for firm ones without dark spots all over. This ensures you get juicy bits in every bite!

How should I store my Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. This will help preserve their texture but remember, they’ll need to warm up a bit before enjoying for the best flavor experience!

Can I freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Yes! Freezing these cookies is a great option. To freeze unfrosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once they are solid, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that wonderful chewiness.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels a bit too sticky, don’t fret! This can happen if the butter is too soft or if there’s excess moisture from the apples. To remedy this, add a tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. It’s key to mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, ensuring your cookies stay tender.

Can I make these cookies without using cream cheese?
Of course! If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid cream cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt. It will provide moisture while reducing the fat content. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you find your frosting isn’t as sweet since Greek yogurt is tangier.

Do Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies contain any allergens?
These cookies typically contain common allergens, such as dairy (butter and cream cheese) and gluten (flour). If you have allergies, you can use dairy-free butter and a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate your needs. Just ensure to double-check all your ingredient labels to be safe.