As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s something magical about filling your kitchen with the inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies. Enter my Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, where the essence of autumn shines through in every bite. These cookies are not only a delightful treat to satisfy your sweet tooth but are also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both cozy evenings and festive gatherings. With a soft, chewy texture, real apple pieces, and gooey caramel centers, they’ll quickly become a new favorite for all your loved ones. So, why not skip the bakery line and embrace the comforting warmth of homemade goodness? Ready to dive into a cookie experience that brings the beauty of fall right to your table?
Why Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Shine?
Cozy Autumn Vibes: These cookies are a warm embrace in every bite, capturing the essence of fall with their delightful apple and spice flavors.
Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this sweet treat!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, they appeal to all ages and cravings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in different apples or add nuts for a personalized twist.
Irresistible Texture: Escape the ordinary with a soft center and a touch of gooey caramel that keeps your taste buds dancing. Pair them with our Oatmeal Cookies Chewy for a comforting cookie platter!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Butter – Use cold butter for the streusel and softened for a rich cookie dough.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness—no direct substitutions needed!
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deeper flavor; both light and dark can be used.
- Egg – Acts as the binder; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy incorporation.
- Concentrated Apple Juice – Intensifies the apple flavor; substitute with fresh apple puree if necessary.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth; no direct substitutions are recommended.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base structure of your cookies; gluten-free flour can be substituted for those needing it.
- Ground Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice – Provide warm autumn spice flavors; consider using pumpkin spice as an alternative.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Crucial for creating a soft, fluffy texture; don’t substitute!
- Granny Smith Apples – Offers a tart flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness; swap for Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter taste.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Creates a tangy, luscious frosting; a vegan cream cheese alternative can work as a substitute.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting, ensuring it’s nice and smooth—no substitutions needed!
- Caramel Sauce – Adds an indulgent flair for mixing and drizzling; store-bought or homemade works well.
With these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies ingredients, you’ll be all set to channel the flavors of fall right in your cozy kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This is a crucial step to ensure your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies bake evenly and are easy to remove once done.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, melt cold butter until it begins to bubble. Add flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the streusel to a bowl and allow it to cool completely, which will give your cookies a deliciously crunchy topping.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, add the room-temperature egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated—this forms the base for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies, compromising the soft texture you want for those delightful cookies.
Step 5: Add the Apples
Gently fold in the diced Granny Smith apples, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is essential for getting that burst of fresh apple flavor in each bite of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. To prevent excess moisture, pat the diced apples dry with a paper towel before adding them.
Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough into large balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. This allows the cookies to spread while baking and helps you achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Slide the cookie sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers will appear slightly underbaked—this is perfect for the soft, chewy result you want in your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 8: Allow to Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow the cookies to cool completely, which is essential before frosting them.
Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, blend together cream cheese and softened butter using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and caramel sauce, mixing until fluffy and well combined. This decadent frosting adds a delicious contrast to your cookies, enhancing the flavor of each bite.
Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are completely cool, use a spatula or a piping bag to generously frost each cookie with the cream cheese frosting. For an extra touch, sprinkle diced apple pieces and the cooled streusel on top, finishing with an additional drizzle of caramel for that indulgent look and flavor.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
These cookies are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, showcasing their delightful texture and flavors. Pair your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies with a glass of milk, warm coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. Enjoy the essence of fall in every bite!
What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
These delightful cookies are not just a treat; they can harmonize beautifully with various sides and drinks to craft a cozy autumn meal.
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Warm Apple Cider: The sweet, spiced flavors of warm cider pair perfectly with the cookie's apple notes, enhancing that festive vibe. It's like taking a sip of fall!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a delightful contrast, adding coolness to the chewy warmth of the cookies. The combination is heavenly!
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee complements the sweet, buttery flavors of the cookies, making for a comforting afternoon pick-me-up. This pairing is perfect for cozy mornings or quiet afternoons.
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Cheese Board: Surprise your guests with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar or brie. The savory elements balance the rich sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
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Chai Tea: Enjoy these cookies alongside a spiced chai tea, enhancing the warm spice notes found in both the beverage and cookie. It brings a delightful seasonal harmony.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: A seasonal favorite, this latte’s creamy pumpkin flavor pairs nicely with the cookies' rich caramel and apple profile. A delicious celebration of fall!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the best quality, scoop out the dough balls and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and chill. The streusel topping can also be made ahead—just store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. When you're ready to bake, simply take the dough out, bake as instructed, and frost once they are cool for delightful cookies that taste just as fresh and delicious!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Get ready to customize your cookies with delightful twists that tease the taste buds and invite creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously safe version that doesn’t skimp on taste. Your gluten-free friends will love these cookies just as much!
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Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cookies and enhances the fall flavors. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
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Pumpkin Spice Twist: Substitute your spice blend with a pumpkin spice mix for a seasonal twist that's sure to warm your heart and home. It's like a cozy hug in cookie form!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter and cream cheese for vegan alternatives. Your cookies will still be indulgent, creamy, and delightful, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!
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Fruity Addition: Toss in dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a fruity burst that pairs beautifully with caramel and apple. You'll be adding a whole new layer of flavor!
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Maple Drizzle: Replace caramel with a maple syrup drizzle for a unique twist that adds a sweet yet earthy flavor profile. Just imagine the autumn aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Chai Spice: Use a chai spice blend instead of regular spices for a warm, aromatic twist that delivers a taste of comfort and coziness in every bite. Your senses will thank you!
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Cranberry Pear Version: Swap out apples for diced pears and fresh cranberries for a delightful mix of tart and sweet flavors that’s perfect for fall gatherings. It’s a unique take everyone will love!
Once you explore these variations, you'll discover new favorite versions like we hinted at. Pair them with our Pineapple Cookies Tropical or Air Fryer Apple for a wholesome treat experience. Happy baking!
Tips for the Best Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
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Proper Mixing: Mix the dough until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Gentle handling retains their soft texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps achieve a light and fluffy frosting for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
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Apple Preparation: Pat diced apples dry with a paper towel and toss them lightly in flour to prevent sogginess, ensuring a delightful bite.
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Baking Watch: Keep an eye on baking time. Cookies will continue cooking on the pan after removal, so aim for slightly underbaked centers for the best chewiness.
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Storage Tip: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to keep them moist and fresh.
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To maintain moisture, add a slice of bread inside the container.
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Fridge: If frosted with cream cheese, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Store in an airtight container to prevent drying.
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Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Frost when ready to serve.
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Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a couple of minutes to restore their soft, chewy texture.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
What apples are best for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookie. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples are excellent alternatives—just remember to chop them into even pieces for consistent flavor in every bite!
How do I store Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them moist, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain their soft texture. If you've adorned them with cream cheese frosting, store them in the fridge instead, where they’ll last for up to a week!
Can I freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place unfrosted cookies on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply frost them after they've thawed for fresh enjoyment.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is overly sticky, don’t worry! Just sprinkle a bit more all-purpose flour while mixing until the consistency is manageable. Ensure you're not overmixing, though—just combine until the dry ingredients are incorporated for a perfect cookie texture!
Can I make Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of your choice. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to maintain that delightful chewy texture we all love in these cookies.
How can I enhance the spice flavors in Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
For an extra twist, you can increase the amount of ground cinnamon or ginger beyond the recipe’s specifications or try substituting an equal amount of pumpkin spice for the individual spice measurements. This will create an even warmer and more festive flavor profile just perfect for fall!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies That Taste Like Fall Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt cold butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, and baking powder. Fold this into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples, making sure they are evenly distributed. Pat apples dry with a paper towel beforehand.
- Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each.
- Bake for 12 minutes, until edges are set and centers look slightly underbaked. Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Blend cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and caramel sauce, mixing until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting and garnish with more diced apples, streusel, and caramel drizzle.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
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