Welcome to my blog! Today, I’m sharing a delicious recipe for Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies. These treats blend warm spices with sweet caramel and fresh apples. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Follow my simple steps to bake cookies that taste just like those from Crumbl. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a favorite in your home! Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Caramel Apple Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1 cup caramel bits (or soft caramel candy, chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
To create these cookies, you need some key ingredients. First, you will want unsalted butter. This gives the cookies a rich taste without too much salt. Then, you need brown sugar and granulated sugar for sweetness. The brown sugar adds a deep flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
You also need two large eggs. They help bind the mix and keep the cookies moist. Vanilla extract is essential for a warm, sweet aroma. It makes the cookies taste even better.
Next, let’s talk about the additional ingredients. All-purpose flour is your main base. Baking soda helps the cookies rise. A little salt balances the sweetness, while ground cinnamon adds warmth.
Diced apples are crucial. They bring a fresh, juicy bite to every cookie. Caramel bits are a must for that gooey, sweet surprise. If you like nuts, add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunch.
With these ingredients ready, you can make delicious caramel apple cookies that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Oven and Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Start by getting your oven ready. This step is key for even baking. Using parchment paper helps cookies not stick. It also makes cleanup easy.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream together butter and sugars.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, mix the softened butter with brown and granulated sugar. Use a mixer for a smooth blend. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. This gives the dough a sweet, rich flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This mix adds structure and a warm spice to your cookies. Slowly add this to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Don’t overdo it; we want soft cookies!
Adding Flavor and Texture
- Fold in diced apples, caramel bits, and nuts.
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in diced apples, caramel bits, and optional nuts. This adds great texture and bursts of flavor. You will love the sweet, gooey caramel in every bite.
Baking the Cookies
- Drop dough onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes.
Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop dough onto your baking sheet. Leave space between each mound. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and soft centers.
Cooling the Cookies
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
After baking, cool the cookies on the sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up. Then move them to a wire rack. Letting them cool completely makes them even better for eating!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Cookie Texture
To get the right cookie texture, start with softened butter. Softened butter blends well with sugars. This helps create a light and fluffy dough. If the butter is cold, your cookies may turn out hard.
Next, avoid overmixing the dough. Mixing too much adds too much air and makes cookies tough. Mix until just combined for soft, chewy cookies.
Enhancing Flavor
Fresh, tart apples give these cookies a real apple taste. I love using Granny Smith apples. Their slight tartness balances the sweetness of the cookies.
After baking, drizzle melted caramel on top. This adds a sweet touch and makes the cookies look amazing. You can also sprinkle some sea salt for a fun contrast.
Presentation Tips
Serve your cookies on a rustic wooden platter. This adds a cozy feel that fits the warm flavors.
For a final touch, sprinkle with cinnamon before serving. This not only looks great but adds to the apple and caramel flavor. Your friends will love how these cookies taste and look!
Variations
Different Nut Options
You can change the nuts in your cookies. Walnuts and pecans add a nice crunch. If you prefer a nut-free cookie, simply leave the nuts out. This keeps the cookies safe for anyone with allergies.
Apple Varieties
Using different apples can change the flavor. Granny Smith apples give a tart bite. Honeycrisp apples offer a sweet crunch. Diced dried apples can add more texture. They bring a chewy element to each bite.
Additional Flavorings
For a fun twist, add chocolate chips to your dough. The rich chocolate pairs well with the caramel. You can also mix in oats for a chewier texture. This makes the cookies heartier and adds more flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Cookies
To keep your caramel apple cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from becoming dry. For the best taste, enjoy them within a week. You can also add a slice of bread in the container. This slice helps keep the cookies soft.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze cookie dough before baking. Just scoop the dough into mounds and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you want cookies, take out the dough and bake straight from the freezer. Thawing is not necessary; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating Cookies
To reheat your cookies, place them in a microwave for about 10 seconds. This keeps them soft and warm. If you want a crispy texture, use an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. Avoid reheating them too long. This can make them dry and hard.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use different sugars! If you want a lighter flavor, try using coconut sugar. You can also use white sugar instead of brown sugar. Just keep in mind that brown sugar adds moisture and a bit of caramel flavor.
What are the best apples for baking?
The best apples for these cookies are tart ones. I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and add a nice tang. For a sweeter cookie, you can mix in Fuji or Gala apples.
How do I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?
To keep your cookies soft and chewy, use softened butter and avoid overmixing the dough. Take them out when the edges are golden but the center looks soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving.
How long will these cookies last?
These cookies can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container. They taste best fresh, but they still stay soft for several days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them.
Can I substitute the caramel bits?
Yes, you can substitute with soft caramel candy. Just chop it into small pieces. You can also use caramel sauce, but it may change the texture of the cookies.
Is this recipe adaptable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Just make sure to check that it has a binder, like xanthan gum, to help with texture. Enjoy your gluten-free version!
Caramel apple cookies are a fun and tasty treat. You start with simple ingredients like butter and sugar. Mixing in fresh apples and caramel adds a sweet twist. You can personalize these cookies with nuts or even chocolate chips. Remember to store them well for lasting freshness. Enjoy baking, and don’t be afraid to try new flavors. These cookies will bring joy to any gathering. Follow these tips, and you’ll create something special every time. Happy baking!
