Name: Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies that Bring Fall to Your Kitchen
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature); ½ cup Brown Sugar (packed); ¼ cup White Sugar; 1 large Egg; ¼ cup Apple Juice Concentrate (or apple cider); 2 cups Flour; ½ teaspoon Baking Soda; ½ teaspoon Baking Powder; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Ground Allspice; 1 cup Apples (diced Granny Smith); 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened); ¼ cup Caramel Sauce; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1 sheet Parchment Paper (for lining baking sheet)

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the sweet allure of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen. These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies perfectly capture the essence of fall with their irresistibly chewy texture and bursts of real apple flavor, paired with gooey caramel. What sets them apart is their simplicity—no need to rely on the local bakery when you can whip up these homemade marvels in no time. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser for your autumn gatherings, but they also make a delightful after-school treat or cozy snack for those chilly evenings. Are you ready to embrace the flavors of the season with each soft, delightful bite? Let’s dive into this recipe that promises warmth and comfort right from your oven!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Deliciously Chewy: Each bite of these Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies offers a perfect softness that melts in your mouth.

Rich Fall Flavors: With fresh apple bits and gooey caramel, they encapsulate the essence of autumn in every nibble.

Quick and Easy: This straightforward recipe means you can enjoy homemade cookies without lengthy prep, great for busy evenings!

Family Favorite: Perfect for all ages, these cookies are sure to become a household staple, ideal for cozy gatherings around the fireplace.

Versatile Pairing: Enjoy them warm with a glass of cold milk or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience!

Perfect for Events: Whether it’s a fall get-together or a special occasion, these cookies will impress your guests and keep them returning for more.

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
Unsalted Butter – provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – adds moisture and deep caramel flavor; can substitute with white sugar for a lighter taste.
White Sugar – sweetens the cookies while contributing to their structure and chewiness.
Egg – binds the ingredients together and helps create the cookie’s structure.
Apple Juice Concentrate – enhances the apple flavor; can be substituted with apple cider if needed.
Flour – forms the base; there are no gluten-free alternatives suggested in this recipe.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – these ingredients help the cookies rise to that perfect texture.
Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice) – adds warmth and depth of flavor, making these cookies reminiscent of cozy fall days.
Salt – balances the sweetness of the sugars.
Apples (Granny Smith recommended) – adds natural sweetness and texture; remember to pat dry and lightly coat in flour to prevent sogginess.
For the Frosting
Cream Cheese – creates a creamy frosting; using full-fat will give you the best texture.
Caramel Sauce – used in the frosting and as a drizzle for added sweetness on top of the cookies.
Powdered Sugar – this creates a light and fluffy cream cheese frosting that complements the cookie beautifully.
Baking Essentials
Parchment Paper – line your baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.

These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies not only promise a deliciously cozy treat but are also incredibly simple to make! Enjoy the warmth of fall flavors with every bite.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie release and cleanup. This ensures a perfectly baked base for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies and sets you up for a smooth baking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel
In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in ½ cup of flour, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook the mixture until it turns golden brown and clumpy, about 3-5 minutes. This streusel will add a delightful crunch to your cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for the texture of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, as it incorporates air for a softer cookie.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add 1 egg, ¼ cup of apple juice concentrate, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This extra step infuses your cookies with delightful apple flavor, ensuring each bite is an explosion of autumn goodness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overmixing. This blend will form the perfect foundation for your cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in 1 cup of diced Granny Smith apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. For best results, pat the apples dry and lightly coat them in flour beforehand to avoid excess moisture. This step will enhance the chewy texture of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each dollop. This spacing allows the cookies to spread beautifully while baking, resulting in that perfectly chewy texture everyone loves.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes, keeping an eye on them as the edges should turn lightly golden while the centers appear slightly underbaked. It’s key to not overbake, as this preserves the soft center of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 9: Cool Before Frosting
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect frosting consistency and preventing it from melting when applied.

Step 10: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and ¼ cup of caramel sauce, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This creamy frosting pairs wonderfully with the cookie’s flavors.

Step 11: Frost and Top the Cookies
Once the cookies are cooled, generously frost each with the cream cheese caramel frosting. Top with additional diced apples, crumbles of the prepared streusel, and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added touch of sweetness. This final step transforms your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies into a delightful fall treat!

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully place your finished cookies on a serving platter and get ready to enjoy! These soft, chewy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring with your family during cozy evenings.

Expert Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy blending, resulting in a smooth and fluffy frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to maintain the tender, soft texture of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.
Check for Doneness: Watch for lightly golden edges while the centers remain slightly underbaked; this will ensure maximum chewiness in every bite.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting and losing its shape.
Apple Prep: Pat apples dry and coat in flour before adding to the dough to avoid soggy cookies, which can detract from the overall texture.

What to Serve with Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Warm freshly baked cookies pair beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments that enhance their cozy flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts deliciously with the warm, chewy cookies, creating a comforting dessert experience. The melting ice cream drizzles into the cookie’s crevices—pure bliss!
Fresh Apple Cider: A glass of sweet, spiced apple cider emphasizes the apple notes in the cookies while providing a refreshing sip that complements the richness of the caramel.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or espresso beautifully complement the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite even more satisfying during a cozy afternoon break.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve with an extra drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgent treat that enhances the caramel flavor in every bite. It’s a sweet kiss of decadence!
Ginger Ale: The bubbly sweetness of ginger ale adds a fun twist, refreshing your palate and offering a light balance to the richness of the cookies.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream pairs wonderfully, adding a lightness that contrasts with the dense, chewy cookies while enhancing their festive appeal.
Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte complement the flavors of the cookies, making for a comforting beverage pairing that warms your soul.
Nutty Oatmeal: Serve alongside a warm bowl of nutty oatmeal for a wholesome start to your day! The cookies can turn breakfast into a delightful treat while balancing textures perfectly.

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations

Feel free to take these cookies to the next level with these delightful twists that will satisfy any craving!

Swap Apples: Replace Granny Smith apples with Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter flavor in every bite. Each apple brings its unique twist, transforming your cookies delightfully.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture contrast. They not only enhance the bites but also add a beautiful rustic touch to your fall-themed cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to make these cookies suitable for those avoiding gluten. Your chewy result will still be super satisfying and full of flavor!
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut oil instead of butter. These alternatives keep the cookie’s essence while accommodating dietary needs.
Flavored Frosting: Instead of plain caramel frosting, try adding a hint of maple syrup for a richer flavor profile that screams fall. Maple brings a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
Seasonal Spice Boost: Enhance the spices in the dough mix by adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice alongside the existing spices for an extra autumnal kick. It will make your kitchen smell divine!
Caramel Center Surprise: Insert a small cube of caramel in the center of each cookie before baking for a gooey surprise that will elevate the overall indulgence. Just be ready for that delicious burst of flavor!
Apple Cider Fusion: Swap out the apple juice concentrate for apple cider to deepen the apple flavor in both the cookies and the frosting. This makes each cookie even more reminiscent of fall!

For those seeking more delectable treats, consider checking out Gooey Coffee Caramel or indulge in some Brownie Mix Cookies. Want to explore savory flavors? Try Shrimp Pineapple Fried Rice. Each offers their unique twist, perfect for satisfying any craving!

Make Ahead Options

These Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The apples can also be diced and coated in flour a day ahead to keep them fresh without browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, bake for 12 minutes, and frost as directed. This way, you get delicious, fresh cookies with minimal effort, ensuring they taste just as delightful as when made from scratch!

Storage Tips for Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready for an after-dinner treat!
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate your cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week, maintaining their delicious taste. However, expect a firmer texture when chilled.
Freezer: Freeze un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours before transferring to an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to indulge, reheat cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked softness.

Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apples for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully. When selecting apples, look for ones that are firm and free of dark spots. Fresh, crisp apples will elevate your cookies and keep them from becoming mushy.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Store your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember that refrigeration might make them a tad firmer, so allowing them to come to room temperature or reheating slightly can restore some softness.

Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze un-frosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their freshly baked texture.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels overly sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Also, ensure that your measurements are accurate, as adding too much liquid can lead to stickiness. Dusting your hands with flour can help as well when forming and portioning the dough.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing these cookies for someone with allergies, note that they contain dairy (butter and cream cheese) and gluten (flour). For lactose-intolerant individuals, you can try using dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. Additionally, be sure to double-check the apple juice concentrate for any added allergens.

How can I enhance the flavor of my cookies?
Great idea! You can enhance the flavor of your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies by adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of vanilla extract to the cookie dough. If you enjoy a nutty crunch, consider folding in some chopped pecans or walnuts when incorporating the apples. The more, the merrier!