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 the sweetness of caramel and apples. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies bring a warm, comforting taste to gatherings, family dinners, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. With their soft cinnamon cookie base, creamy frosting, and crunchy streusel topping, they are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon, caramel, and fresh apples creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can successfully whip up this recipe with simple steps.
• Perfect for Fall: Embrace the autumn season with flavors that celebrate apple harvests.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just an afternoon snack.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered look of frosting and streusel makes these cookies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best caramel apple cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when mixing doughs or creams to achieve the right consistency.

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 tbsp butter (softened)
• 3 tbsp caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 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)

For the Apple Filling

• 1 green apple (sliced into cubes)

How to Make The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well blended.

Step 3: Add Apples

Gently fold in the cubed green apple pieces into your cookie dough.

Step 4: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon:
– Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While cookies bake:
1. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter; beat until smooth.
2. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Prepare Streusel Topping

In another bowl:
– Combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, salt with cold cubed butter using fingers until crumbly.

Step 8: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies have cooled:
– Spread frosting on each cookie generously.
– Top with streusel mixture before finishing with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy these delightful Crumbl copycat cookies that capture all the flavors of fall!

How to Serve The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

Serving The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperatures.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Add an extra drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an indulgent treat that enhances the cookie’s sweetness.

Paired with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a hot cup of apple cider or chai tea, making them perfect for fall gatherings.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on each cookie for an extra creamy texture that complements the flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a festive platter alongside other treats like brownies and bars for a perfect dessert spread.

Gift-Wrapped as Treats

• Package your cookies in decorative boxes or bags as gifts, making them a sweet surprise for friends and family.

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How to Perfect The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

To achieve perfection in The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat, consider the following tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.

• Add Fresh Apples Last: Fold in green apple chunks gently at the end to maintain their structure during baking.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies from the oven when they are lightly golden; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

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

Pairing side dishes with The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat can enhance your dessert table. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm drink rich in chocolate and spices that complements the flavors of caramel and apple.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These fluffy donuts add another layer of sweetness and spice, making them an excellent pairing.

3. Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: A refreshing mix of fruits balances out the richness of the cookies.

4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookies.

5. Apple Crisp: Another apple-based dessert that enhances the theme while providing different textures and flavors.

6. Caramel Popcorn: Crunchy popcorn drizzled with caramel makes for a fun, crispy addition to your dessert spread.

7. Nutty Granola Bars: These bars add crunch and can be enjoyed alongside the soft cookies for variety in texture.

8. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A seasonal favorite that pairs well with fall flavors found in caramel apple cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat, avoiding certain mistakes can help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can hinder the mixing process. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can produce tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon the flour into measuring cups and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Skipping the chilling time: Not chilling the cookie dough may result in spread-out cookies. Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain their shape during baking.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Oven temperatures can vary widely. Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• You can freeze these cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last for about three months in the freezer.

Reheating The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds on medium power to soften them quickly.
• Stovetop: Place the cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat:

Can I substitute different types of apples?

Yes, feel free to use any apple variety you like! Granny Smith apples work well, but Honeycrisp adds a nice sweetness.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make gluten-free versions of these cookies?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal measure.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill your dough before baking. This helps maintain their shape.

Final Thoughts

The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or any cozy occasion. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or spices based on your preferences. Enjoy baking!