There's something magical about the comforting aroma of apples and spices wafting through the kitchen as the leaves start to turn. Today, I want to share a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall: Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. These warm, chewy cookies not only bring the taste of autumn into your home but also come together in just one bowl, making them an absolute breeze to whip up. With the combination of sweet Granny Smith apples and luscious caramel cream cheese frosting, they're bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, you can easily freeze the unfrosted cookies for future snacking, ensuring you’re always just a bake away from sweet indulgence. Are you ready to treat your taste buds? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies is a delicious explosion of cinnamon, ginger, and sweet apple that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
One-Bowl Wonder: Enjoy the simplicity of preparing these cookies in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze—ideal for busy bakers!
Gooey Goodness: The luscious caramel cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that takes these cookies over the top and pleases every palate.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion, these cookies can be served at parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoyed as an everyday treat.
Easily Freezable: Want to savor them later? Just freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to three months—making sweet indulgence quick and easy!
Try pairing these cookies with a warm cup of spiced cider or even enjoy them as a delightful dessert alongside your favorite homemade vanilla ice cream.
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Cold butter – helps create a rich and tender cookie base.
- Flour – provides structure to keep these cookies delightfully chewy.
- Sugar – balances sweetness for that perfect cookie flavor.
- Dark brown sugar – adds moisture and a deeper caramel taste.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together and gives a nice rise.
- Concentrated apple juice – infuses a sweet apple flavor without adding too much liquid.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness with a warm aroma.
- Ground cinnamon – brings a comforting spice that complements the apples.
- Ground ginger – adds a touch of warmth for that wintery feel.
- Ground nutmeg – offers a cozy, aromatic flavor profile.
- Ground allspice – ties in that festive fall spice ensemble.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Baking soda – helps cookies to rise and remain soft.
- Baking powder – gives additional lift to your cookies.
- Diced Granny Smith apples – contribute a fresh, tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with sweetness.
For the Frosting
- Cream cheese (softened) – provides a rich and creamy texture, perfect for frosting.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
- Caramel sauce – adds a drizzle of gooey sweetness that elevates the cookies.
For the Topping
- Additional caramel sauce – drizzled on top for extra indulgence and presentation.
- Streusel – a crunchy topping made from butter, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt for added texture and flavor.
Use these ingredients to create the most scrumptious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple preparation will set you up for success as you create a batch of delicious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a medium skillet, melt the cold butter over medium heat. Add flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the melted butter, mixing until small clumps form and everything is evenly moistened. Continue cooking on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns a delicious golden brown, demonstrating that the streusel is perfectly toasted.
Step 3: Cool the Streusel
Once your streusel reaches a beautiful golden color, carefully remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. This cooling time is essential for achieving that delightful crunch on top of your cookies, so set it aside while you move on to the cookie dough.
Step 4: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soft butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, around 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a wonderfully textured base for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in the large egg, and pour in the concentrated apple juice and vanilla extract. Continue to mix on medium speed until all the ingredients are fully integrated; you should have a luscious and sweet batter that smells distinctly of autumn.
Step 6: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This blend of dry ingredients ensures even distribution of spices and leaveners, which will elevate your cookie dough's flavor and texture.
Step 7: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a dough that is thick and slightly sticky, ready to transform into scrumptious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies after the addition of your diced apples.
Step 8: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the diced Granny Smith apples using a spatula. This step adds an irresistible freshness and tartness to your cookies. Prepare to scoop out your dough as you marvel at the delightful apple pieces nestled within!
Step 9: Portion the Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, portion out nine cookie dough balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are adequately spaced to account for spreading; this will ensure each cookie bakes to golden perfection.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be lightly golden around the edges and set in the center, signaling that they are done.
Step 11: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, start preparing the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and caramel sauce, whip until fluffy, and then go ahead and frost each cookie generously!
Step 12: Add Toppings
Finally, decorate your frosted cookies with cubed green apple pieces, a sprinkle of the cooled streusel, and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an added touch of indulgence. Your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are now beautifully topped and ready to impress!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make delicious gluten-free cookies. They may turn out just as tender and tasty!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting, and substitute butter with a plant-based alternative. You won’t miss the dairy one bit!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a satisfying crunch, elevating the texture and flavor. The added nuttiness pairs beautifully with the apples.
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Spiced Twist: Enhance the autumn flavor by adding ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice into the dry ingredients, creating a cozy, warm aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Caramel Apple Delight: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cookies before serving for an extra gooey indulgence. This creates a delightful caramel surprise with every bite!
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Baked Apple Variation: Instead of using diced apples in the dough, consider baking apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Incorporate them into the cookie for a warm, tender texture.
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Heat It Up: If you love a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a sweet heat kick that will surprise your taste buds!
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a luscious chocolatey surprise paired with the apple flavor. They'll be an instant classic in your cookie repertoire!
Whether you decide to stick with the original recipe or venture into these variations, every bite will be a nostalgic reminder of autumn! Don't forget to serve these cookies alongside a glass of warm spiced cider or with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat experience. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it, scooping it onto a baking sheet, and covering it tightly in the refrigerator. The butter and sugar combination will keep the dough just as delicious and ready to bake when you're set to enjoy them. Additionally, the streusel topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven, bake for 12 minutes, and frost with the cream cheese mixture. Enjoy the luxury of homemade treats with minimal effort during your busy week!
What to Serve with Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Indulging in warm, spiced cookies is a true comfort, and adding delightful accompaniments can transform your treat into a full cozy experience.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, silky texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm cookies, enhancing their autumn flavors.
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Hot Apple Cider: Rich and spiced, this warm beverage mirrors the flavors in the cookies, bringing a delightful warmth to your chill.
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Whipped Cream: Top your cookies with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream for added sweetness and a light, airy texture.
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Toasty Almonds: Chopped, toasted almonds add a crunchy texture that complements both the softness of the cookies and the gooeyness of the frosting.
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Fresh Sliced Apples: For a refreshing crunch, serve with thinly sliced, crisp apples to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
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Caramel Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle additional caramel sauce over your cookies to amplify their flavor profile.
Pairing these treats creates not just a dessert but a comforting experience, inviting everyone to savor each moment.
Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Cookie Consistency: Ensure your butter is cold when making the streusel for that perfect crunchy topping. Warm butter can lead to a soggy texture.
Apple Selection: Always choose Granny Smith apples for their tartness. They beautifully complement the sweetness of the cookies and frosting.
Mixing Wisely: Avoid overmixing the cookie dough once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps the cookies tender and chewy.
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting away.
Frosting Whip: Whip the cream cheese frosting until fluffy for the best texture. A well-aerated frosting really elevates your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them moist, add a slice of bread inside the container.
Fridge: You can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week; they taste delightful chilled and retain their flavor well.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This way, you can bake them fresh whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating: To enjoy these cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds—perfect for that fresh-baked taste without the hassle!
Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookie and the caramel frosting, providing that perfect bite of flavor. Look for firm apples with smooth skin and no dark spots.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their moisture, I often place a slice of bread in the container; it works like a charm!
Can I freeze the cookies? How?
Definitely! You can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and prepare the frosting fresh for that delightful treat.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Very! This can happen for a couple of reasons. Ensure your butter is cold for the streusel and that your dough is well-chilled before baking. If the dough is too warm, it can result in cookies spreading too quickly. Another tip is to not overmix after adding dry ingredients, as this can affect the cookie's texture.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but you'll still achieve delicious Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies!
Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While these cookies are delicious for us, it’s important to remember that they contain ingredients like sugar and butter that are not suitable for pets. Always keep sweet treats separate from your furry friends to ensure their health and safety.
Irresistible Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies You’ll Love
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
- Electric Mixer
- skillet
- spatula
- cookie scoop
- parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Cold butter helps create a rich and tender cookie base
- 2 cups Flour provides structure to keep these cookies delightfully chewy
- 1 cup Sugar balances sweetness for that perfect cookie flavor
- 1 cup Dark brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel taste
- 1 Large egg binds the ingredients together and gives a nice rise
- ½ cup Concentrated apple juice infuses a sweet apple flavor without adding too much liquid
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness with a warm aroma
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon brings a comforting spice that complements the apples
- 1 teaspoon Ground ginger adds a touch of warmth for that wintery feel
- ½ teaspoon Ground nutmeg offers a cozy, aromatic flavor profile
- ½ teaspoon Ground allspice ties in that festive fall spice ensemble
- ½ teaspoon Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda helps cookies to rise and remain soft
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder gives additional lift to your cookies
- 2 cups Diced Granny Smith apples contribute a fresh, tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with sweetness
For the Frosting
- 8 oz Cream cheese (softened) provides a rich and creamy texture
- 2 cups Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading
- ½ cup Caramel sauce adds a drizzle of gooey sweetness
For the Topping
- ¼ cup Additional caramel sauce drizzled on top for extra indulgence
- 1 cup Streusel a crunchy topping made for added texture and flavor
Instructions
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium skillet, melt the cold butter over medium heat, then mix in flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until small clumps form.
- Continue cooking until the mixture turns golden brown then remove from heat to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the soft butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully integrated.
- Whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced Granny Smith apples.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out nine cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Once cooled, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter, then adding powdered sugar and caramel sauce.
- Frost each cookie generously and decorate with cubed apples, streusel, and extra caramel sauce.
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