The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

These The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their warm cinnamon flavor and creamy caramel frosting, these cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. Ideal for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, they are sure to impress everyone. The combination of green apple chunks and rich caramel sauce makes them stand out from regular cookies, offering a unique twist that you won’t want to miss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices with the sweetness of caramel creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch and share them with friends and family; they make excellent gifts!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything in place will help you focus on creating these delicious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your batter is perfectly blended.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet helps achieve even baking for perfectly cooked cookies.

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 cup 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 Topping

• 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 softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until smooth.
2. Add the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together AP flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Apple Chunks

Gently fold in green apple cubes into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
3. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In another mixing bowl:
1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
2. Add caramel sauce and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gradually sprinkle in powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Prepare Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cut in cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies have cooled:
1. Top each cookie with cream cheese frosting.
2. Sprinkle with streusel topping followed by an extra drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy your freshly baked The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat! These delectable treats are bound to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

How to Serve The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

These delicious Crumbl caramel apple cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during fall. They can be served in a variety of ways to elevate the experience.

With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair each cookie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling additional caramel sauce over the cookies before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for added richness and texture.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall treats like pumpkin bars and pecan pie.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm mug of apple cider to complement the apple flavors perfectly.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

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How to Perfect The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

To ensure your caramel apple cookies turn out just right, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature to create a smooth batter that blends well.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps maintain the shape during baking.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

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

These caramel apple cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes, making every bite even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Apples: Warm spiced apples that echo the flavors in your cookies.

2. Caramel Dip: A rich, creamy dip that complements the apple taste beautifully.

3. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or brie for a savory contrast against the sweet cookies.

4. Pecan Pie Bars: A nutty, sweet dessert that pairs well with your caramel apple flavor profile.

5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite enhances the fall vibe when enjoyed alongside your cookies.

6. Chocolate Fondue: A fun dipping option that offers an indulgent twist to your dessert experience.

7. Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing side that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

8. Gingerbread Cookies: Another festive treat that complements your caramel apple creation perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and texture issues. Always let your butter and egg sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.

• Skipping the Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes for a better shape.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature Calibration: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurately set to 350°F.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cookie’s taste and texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

• Forgetting to Preheat the Oven: Placing cookies in a cold oven can affect their rise and texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat unique?

These cookies are unique due to their cinnamon cookie base, creamy caramel frosting, and chunks of fresh green apples that create an irresistible flavor combination.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with vegan butter, use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of egg, and choose dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking will help maintain their shape. Additionally, ensure you’re using the right amount of flour during measurement.

What toppings work well with these caramel apple cookies?

You can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts or drizzle more caramel sauce on top for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

The Best Caramel Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or changing up the frosting flavors. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, so give them a try!