Name: Deliciously Soft Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cold butter (Adds rich flavor and moisture.); 2 cups all-purpose flour (The base for the cookie structure.); 1/2 cup sugar (Balances sweetness.); 1/4 cup brown sugar (Contributes caramel-like taste.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Key spice for warm aroma.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Elevates flavors.); 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together.); 1/4 cup concentrated apple juice (Infuses apple flavor.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances sweetness.); 1 cup diced Granny Smith apple (Provides a juicy burst.); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Enhances autumnal flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (Adds subtle warmth.); 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Compliments cinnamon.); 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (Adds depth to spice mix.); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (Creates a creamy base.); 1/4 cup softened butter (Adds richness.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Sweetens the frosting.); 1/4 cup caramel sauce (Adds caramel flavor.); 1 cup cubed green apple (Adds freshness.); 1 cup cooled streusel (Adds sweetness and texture.); 1/4 cup extra caramel sauce (Intensifies caramel flavor.)

As I sank my teeth into a warm Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie, the cozy blend of spices and the sweetness of apples transported me straight to a bustling fall market. This delightful treat is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fun twist on traditional cookie recipes, making it perfect for any occasion. With quick prep time, you'll find yourself whipping up these mouthwatering cookies in no time, leaving fast food behind for good. Plus, the creamy caramel frosting adds an irresistible touch that turns each bite into a moment of pure joy. Ready to elevate your baking game and treat your loved ones to something truly special? Let's get started!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Delightfully Soft: These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies provide an incredibly tender texture that melts in your mouth, making them a delectable choice for cookie lovers.
Autumn in Every Bite: With a warm spice blend featuring cinnamon and nutmeg, each cookie transports you to a cozy fall day, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 32 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these cookies faster than you can say “takeout”!
Gourmet Touch: The caramel cream cheese frosting elevates this recipe to a gourmet dessert that will impress friends and family, ensuring they come back for more.
Versatile Treat: Whether served warm from the oven or chilled, these cookies are versatile enough for any occasion, making them a fantastic dessert option throughout the year.
Try pairing them with a cup of coffee or hot cider for a delightful experience!

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Cold butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture, creating that soft texture.
• All-purpose flour – The base for the cookie structure; be sure to measure correctly.
• Sugar – Balances sweetness; using a mix of white and brown sugar enhances flavor depth.
• Brown sugar – Contributes a lovely caramel-like taste that complements the apples.
• Cinnamon – This key spice helps evoke a warm, inviting aroma reminiscent of fall.
• Salt – Elevates flavors by balancing sweetness and enhancing the overall taste.
• Large egg – Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Concentrated apple juice – Infuses a delightful apple flavor into the cookie itself.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and adds complexity to the cookie dough.
• Diced Granny Smith apple – These tart apples provide a juicy burst that contrasts the sweetness of the cookie.

For the Spices
• Ground cinnamon – Enhances the autumnal flavor profile; a staple in cookie recipes.
• Ground ginger – Adds a subtle warmth and a delightful twist to the blend.
• Ground nutmeg – Introduces a fragrant note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Ground allspice – A pinch adds depth to the spice mix without overpowering.

For the Frosting
• Cream cheese, softened – Creates a luscious, creamy base for the frosting.
• Softened butter – Blends easily with cream cheese, adding richness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth, velvety texture.
• Caramel sauce – Drizzle some into the frosting for a delightful caramel flavor, perfect for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

For the Toppings
• Cubed green apple – Adds freshness and a crunchy texture to the frosted cookies.
• Cooled streusel – A crunchy topping that adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
• Extra caramel sauce – Drizzling this over the cookies intensifies the caramel flavor and makes them extra special.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick. Once prepared, set the sheet aside while you whip up the delicious dough.

Step 2: Make the Streusel
In a medium skillet, melt 1 cup of cold butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of flour, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of brown sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until small clumps form. Return to medium heat, stirring frequently until the streusel turns golden brown, then let it cool completely before using.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, ¼ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of white sugar, and ¼ cup of brown sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps create the rich and tender base for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add in 1 large egg, ¼ cup of concentrated apple juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamy mixture. Beat everything together until all ingredients are well combined, making sure the mixture is smooth and homogenous to ensure great flavor throughout your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of allspice, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This blend of spices will enhance the flavor of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, infusing them with autumnal aromas.

Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a rustic texture is what you’re aiming for in these cookies. The dough should be thick and ready to scoop onto the baking sheet.

Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, approximately ¼ cup or 4 tablespoons, portion out 9 evenly sized dough balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to spread while baking. You want the perfect spacing for that delightful, soft texture in your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 minutes. When they are lightly golden and set around the edges, they are done! Remove them from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheet, enhancing their soft and chewy consistency.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the remaining 4 ounces of cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and ¼ cup of caramel sauce, whipping until the frosting is fluffy. This heavenly caramel cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch for your cookies.

Step 10: Frost with Delight
Once your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each cookie with the caramel cream cheese frosting. The frosting not only adds flavor but also a beautiful, creamy texture that elevates your cookies to something truly special.

Step 11: Add Final Touches
Top each frosted cookie with small cubed pieces of Granny Smith apple, a sprinkle of the cooled streusel, and a delightful drizzle of caramel sauce if desired. These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also make your cookies visually appealing and incredibly enticing for all who see them.

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore some fun twists to personalize your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese for a tasty alternative.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Extra Spice: Add a dash of cardamom or cloves to deepen the warm spice profile, bringing a unique twist to every bite.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture.
Chewy Texture: For a chewier cookie, replace half of the white sugar with brown sugar, adding richness and moisture.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Instead of frosting, simply drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgently sweet finish.
Fruit Variations: Swap Granny Smith apples with diced pears or cranberries for a different fruity experience that’s equally delicious.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness and adds intrigue to each cookie.

These variations not only allow you to get creative but also ensure that your cookies will be a hit at any gathering. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea, or even some homemade apple cider from your kitchen for an unforgettable taste sensation!

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 keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container.

Fridge: Refrigerate the cookies for up to a week if you prefer a chilled treat. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This will restore their delightful softness, perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee!

Make Ahead Options

These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are a dream come true for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto the baking sheet and bake as directed. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick whip before spreading it on the cooled cookies. This way, you'll have fresh, delicious cookies ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for the Best Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Proper measuring ensures your cookies turn out soft and chewy. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies.

• Don't Overmix the Dough: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of the delicate texture you desire.

• Use Cold Butter for Streusel: Starting with cold butter for your streusel helps create that irresistible crumbly topping. It holds its shape better while baking, giving you that perfect crunch.

• Let Cookies Cool Completely: Allowing your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies to cool on the baking sheet strengthens their chewy texture. Frosting them too soon can lead to melty frosting and soggy cookies.

• Adjust Spice Levels to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices to suit your palate! If you love cinnamon, add a bit more for an extra kick in your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

• Store with Bread for Freshness: To keep your cookies moist longer, place a piece of bread in the container. The cookies will absorb moisture and stay tender and delicious for several days.

What to Serve with Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

As you savor the cozy flavors of these indulgent cookies, consider pairing them with accompaniments that enhance their deliciousness in every bite.

Warm Spiced Cider: A cup of hot spiced cider complements the warm spices in the cookies, creating an inviting aroma that’s perfect for fall.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm cookies, melting into the frosting for an irresistible treat.
Coffee or Latte: Brewed coffee or a frothy latte balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite even more delightful.
Caramel Drizzle on Top: Elevate your cookies with an extra caramel drizzle. It enhances the caramel flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Try serving these cookies alongside pumpkin spice muffins for a scrumptious dessert spread that embodies autumn.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the flavors of the cookies beautifully, creating a warm and soothing pairing.

Each of these pairings will create a magnificent ensemble that transforms your snack into a joyous occasion, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness!

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for these cookies?
Absolutely! For these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cookie and frosting. Look for firm apples without any dark spots or bruises. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Definitely! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to retain their soft texture, add a slice of bread into the container; it helps maintain moisture.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze unfrosted Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, let them cool completely first. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place the wrapped cookies in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

What if my cookie dough is too dry?
Very often! If your dough feels dry and crumbly, it might be due to too much flour. To fix this, try adding a tablespoon of milk or apple juice gradually and mix gently until you reach the desired consistency. This should help create the soft, chewy cookies you’re aiming for!

Can I use a different frosting for the cookies?
Absolutely! If you're looking for alternatives, a simple vanilla buttercream or even a cream cheese frosting without caramel will work just fine. The key is to make sure it complements the apple flavor while keeping that icing delightfully creamy.

Are these cookies suitable for pets or anyone with allergies?
Very important! While these cookies are a treat for humans, their contents may not be safe for pets. Additionally, if anyone you’re serving has allergies, ensure you check for common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and eggs in the ingredients. I often suggest checking with any guests prior to baking to ensure everyone can enjoy your delicious creations!