Craving the irresistible taste of fall in a single bite? Look no further! This caramel apple cookies Crumbl copycat recipe is your ticket to homemade bliss, delivering the chewy, gooey, and utterly delicious flavors of the popular Crumbl cookie, right from your own kitchen.
What are Caramel Apple Cookies?
Ever wondered how the Caramel Apple Cookie got its name? Was it whispered on the crisp autumn breeze, carried from apple orchard to bakery? Maybe it was a happy accident, a sprinkle of caramel that landed just right on a classic cookie dough.
Or, perhaps, it’s simply because these cookies evoke the comforting flavors of a caramel-dipped apple, a treat that’s been charming sweet teeth for generations. After all, ‘the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart is through their stomach,’ and these cookies aim straight for the bullseye! So, are you ready to whip up a batch of these melt-in-your-mouth delights? Let’s get baking!
Key Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cookies:
Here’s a visual and a detailed list of everything you’ll need to create these amazing Caramel Apple Cookies. Ensuring you have all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable!
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup peeled and diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
For the Caramel Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Caramel squares, for decorating (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (or more as needed)
How to Make Caramel Apple Cookies:
These Caramel Apple Cookies are surprisingly easy to make, even if they look like they came straight from a professional bakery! The combination of the soft, cinnamon-spiced cookie, the tartness of the apples, and the rich caramel will make your taste buds sing. You don’t need to be a master baker to enjoy success with this recipe. Overall Pre time to bake these Cookies will take up to 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
I. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will typically take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
II. Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop Dough: Use a large cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should still be slightly soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
III. Make the Caramel Topping:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, butter, and salt.
- Cook: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer, without stirring, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is golden brown and thickened. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches 245°F (118°C).
- Cool Slightly: Remove from heat and let cool slightly before drizzling over the cookies.
IV. Apply The Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a bowl, add in cream cheese and butter. Beat with a mixer until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix well. Add milk a tablespoon at a time as needed to reach spreadable consistency. Apply to cool cookies
V. Assemble the Cookies:
- Drizzle with Caramel: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle them generously with the homemade caramel.
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, top with chopped caramel squares or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
- Let Set: Allow the caramel to set before serving. This will take about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by placing the cookies in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cookies:
These cookies capture the essence of caramel apples in a delightful, chewy package. The combination of warm spices, tart apples, and sweet caramel is simply irresistible. More than just a treat, these cookies offer a cost-effective alternative to buying similar cookies from specialty bakeries, letting you indulge without breaking the bank.
Plus, the homemade caramel and fresh apple pieces elevate them to gourmet status. If you’re a fan of classic fall flavors check out our Snickerdoodle recipe – you might find a new favorite! Ready to experience cookie perfection? Grab your ingredients and bake up a batch – you and your loved ones won’t be disappointed!
What to Serve Caramel Apple Cookies With:
These Caramel Apple Cookies are delicious on their own, but they can be elevated even further when paired with the right accompaniments. Consider serving them with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm, spiced flavors of the cookies.
- Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall pairing, warm apple cider enhances the apple notes in the cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea provides a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Milk: A glass of milk for dipping
Top Tips for Perfecting Caramel Apple Cookies:
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted. This will help create a light and fluffy cookie base.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop the flavors.
- Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples provide a nice tart contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
- Monitor the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks. It can burn easily.
- For a Caramel Substitute Use store bougth Caramel squares. For extra Flavor, toast the squares slightly before placing onto cooling cookies.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: To freeze the cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply let the cookies come to room temperature. If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours.
Final Thoughts:
This Caramel Apple Cookies Crumbl copycat recipe brings the taste of autumn to your kitchen year-round. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll be enjoying warm, gooey cookies in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a cookie experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. However, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they balance the sweetness of the caramel.
Q: Can I make the caramel ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the caramel ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently before using.
Q: Can I add nuts to the cookies?
A: Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to these cookies.
Q: The frosting is too runny or too thick, how can I fix it?
A: If runny, simply add bit more Powdered Sugar a little at a time, beating between additions, if too thick then a splash of milk will do the trick.
Q: Can I use a store-bought caramel sauce?
A: While homemade caramel is recommended for the best flavor, you can use a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce in a pinch. Just be sure it’s thick enough to drizzle without being too runny.
Q:My Cookies are too Flat, What did I do Wrong?
A: Make sure that you chilling the dough. Chilling can result in a better taste and flavor.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest