The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
These The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the flavors of fall. With a soft cinnamon cookie base, rich caramel cream cheese frosting, and crunchy streusel, they are perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties. The addition of fresh green apples gives each bite a refreshing crunch, making these cookies truly stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers!
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of cinnamon, caramel, and apple creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are ideal for various occasions—whether it’s a casual snack or a dessert for a special gathering.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with caramel sauce and streusel, these cookies look as good as they taste!
- Perfect for Fall: The warm spices and apple flavor make them a seasonal favorite.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these delicious cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cookies and ensures they bake uniformly.
- Electric mixer: Makes mixing ingredients quick and easy, resulting in a smooth batter.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the cookies after baking without damage.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup Imperial Sugar granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup Imperial Sugar dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 2 tbsp concentrated apple juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cup AP flour
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 5 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tbsp butter (softened)
- 3 tbsp caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup Imperial Sugar powdered sugar
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tbsp Imperial Sugar granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 & 1/2 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 green apple (sliced into cubes)
How to Make The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 3: Add Apple Chunks
Gently fold in the green apple cubes into the cookie dough.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet:
– Leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
– Bake for about 12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Step 5: Prepare Frosting
While cookies bake:
1. In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar until you reach desired sweetness.
Step 6: Make Streusel Topping
In another bowl:
– Combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt.
– Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
Step 7: Assemble Cookies
Once cookies have cooled:
– Top each cookie with cream cheese frosting.
– Sprinkle streusel on top followed by an extra drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat!
How to Serve The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
These delicious cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Their rich flavors and textures make them a delightful treat for any occasion.
With a Warm Beverage
- Coffee: Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Hot Apple Cider: Enhance the apple flavor by serving with warm apple cider, perfect for fall.
- Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
As a Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Serve alongside other cookies like chocolate chip or snickerdoodle for variety.
- Fruits: Fresh apple slices or mixed berries can add freshness and balance to the dessert table.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert experience.
For a Festive Gathering
- Holiday Parties: Display these cookies on a festive platter during holiday gatherings.
- Potluck Events: Bring these as your contribution to potlucks; they’re sure to impress everyone.
How to Perfect The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
To achieve the best results with these caramel apple cookies, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a better texture.
- Chill Dough If Necessary: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up while cooling.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh spices and quality ingredients for the best flavor profile in your cookies.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
These caramel apple cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor and create a well-rounded meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that balances the sweetness of the cookies with its creamy texture.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream can be dolloped on top or served alongside.
- Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: A crunchy, nutritious side that complements the cookie’s flavors perfectly.
- Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda that contrast nicely with sweet desserts.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces into warm chocolate for an extra treat during gatherings.
- Mixed Nuts: Provide some crunch and saltiness that pairs well with sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when trying to replicate a beloved recipe like The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.
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Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and texture. Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best results.
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Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
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Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Improperly measuring flour can ruin the cookie texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
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Ignoring Oven Temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible.
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Forgetting to Chill the Dough: Chilling can enhance flavor and prevent the cookies from spreading too much. If time allows, refrigerate your dough before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
Reheating The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
- Oven: Preheat to 350F, bake for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat, this section is for you!
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes! You can substitute with any apple variety you prefer, but tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for balance.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
You can make your own caramel sauce easily or use store-bought options. Both work well with these cookies.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they remain fresh for about one week in the refrigerator.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or mix-ins. They are perfect for fall gatherings or any cozy day at home. Give them a try, and enjoy a taste of comfort!
The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the autumn-inspired delight of The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat. These cookies feature a soft and chewy cinnamon cookie base, generously topped with a luscious caramel cream cheese frosting, and finished with a crunchy streusel topping. The combination of fresh green apples adds a refreshing bite to every morsel, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion—from family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you baking delicious cookies that are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 5 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 green apple (diced)
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg, apple juice, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture.
- Gently fold in diced apples.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet and bake for about 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until creamy; add caramel and powdered sugar.
- Top cookies with frosting and sprinkle with streusel.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 98mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
