The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are a delightful treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a sweet snack, these cookies combine the flavors of cinnamon and caramel with chunks of green apple. Each bite offers a sweet and tangy experience that’s hard to resist. The unique features of this recipe include a soft cookie base topped with creamy caramel frosting and a crunchy streusel that makes them truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cinnamon, caramel, and apple creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a weekday treat, these cookies fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With 9 servings, they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all by yourself!
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The layers of frosting and streusel make these cookies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients effectively without spills.
• Baking sheet: This is essential for even baking; using parchment paper helps prevent sticking.
• Whisk: A whisk is perfect for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly and creating a smooth frosting.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 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 cups 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 Frosting

• 5 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 3 tablespoons caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup Imperial Sugar powdered sugar

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon Imperial Sugar granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 & 1/2 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)

For the Filling

• 1 green apple (sliced into cubes)

How to Make The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add Apple Chunks

1. Gently fold in the diced green apple to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop out dough onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Allow cooling on wire racks.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

1. In a separate mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with softened butter until smooth. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix well. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Prepare Streusel Topping

1. In another bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold cubed butter using your fingers or a fork until crumbly.

Step 7: Frosting and Topping

1. Once cookies are cooled completely:
   1. Spread caramel cream cheese frosting over each cookie.
   2. Sprinkle homemade streusel topping on top.
   3. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cookies, perfect for any fall occasion!

How to Serve The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

These delightful caramel apple cookies are perfect for any occasion. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile treat for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Pair with Coffee

• Coffee: A fresh cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the cookies and provides a perfect balance to their sweetness.

Add Vanilla Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and temperatures.

Create a Cookie Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange these cookies alongside other baked goods for a colorful dessert table at parties or events.

Garnish with Extra Caramel

• Extra Caramel: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cookies just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Serve with Hot Apple Cider

• Hot Apple Cider: Pair these cookies with hot apple cider to complement their apple flavor, especially during fall gatherings.

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How to Perfect The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

To ensure your caramel apple cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for better mixing, which leads to a smoother batter.
• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavors.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh apples and high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste of your cookies.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

These caramel apple cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie pairs well with sweet cookies, adding richness to each bite.
2. Mixed Nuts: Roasted mixed nuts add crunch and saltiness, providing a contrasting texture that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers freshness and acidity that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
5. Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy caramel popcorn makes a fun side dish that echoes the flavors in your caramel apple cookies.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink is perfect for fall gatherings and pairs beautifully with sweet desserts like these cookies.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips are great for dipping into frosting leftover from the cookie preparation, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Baking with cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing and texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir until just combined for a soft, tender cookie.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the cookie dough can result in spreading during baking. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that is too hot or too cool affects baking times. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat cookies individually for 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat.

What makes these caramel apple cookies special?

These cookies combine flavors of cinnamon, caramel, and fresh apples, making them unique and perfect for fall.

Can I substitute other fruits?

Yes! You can use pears or peaches instead of apples to customize your cookies.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze them for longer preservation.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well and maintain their delicious flavor after thawing.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these delicious treats gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are not only delightful but also versatile. They are perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Feel free to customize them with different fruits or toppings as you like!