Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies! With buttery dough, tart apples, and gooey caramel, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a delightful dessert or want to impress friends, this simple recipe is just what you need. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make these mouthwatering cookies a reality in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Complete list of ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup caramel bits (or chopped soft caramels)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
You need simple, fresh ingredients for these cookies. Start with soft butter for a creamy texture. I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness. The caramel bits add a sweet, gooey surprise. If you want crunch, add nuts. They bring a nice contrast to the soft cookie.
Essential kitchen tools
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Gather these tools before you start. Mixing bowls help combine ingredients well. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes cleanup easy. A cookie scoop helps form uniform cookies. This way, they bake evenly.
Nutritional information (per cookie)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugars: 10g
Each cookie has a nice balance of flavor and sweetness. They are perfect for a treat or dessert. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the dough
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms it up for baking. Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This keeps the cookies from sticking.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a spoon to cream them together. Mix until the blend is light and fluffy. This process adds air, making the cookies soft.
After that, beat in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Keep mixing until everything is combined well. The mix should look smooth and creamy.
Mixing the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together. This step ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly spread.
Finalizing the cookie mixture
Now, slowly add the dry mix to the wet mixture. Stir gently until it just comes together. Be careful not to overmix; this can make the cookies tough.
Next, fold in 1 cup of diced Granny Smith apples and 1/2 cup of caramel bits. If you want, you can also add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. Mix until the apples and caramel bits are evenly spread throughout the dough.
Finally, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie, so they don’t touch while baking.
Now, you are ready to bake!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the perfect texture
To get the best cookies, avoid overmixing the dough. When you mix too much, cookies can turn tough. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Using chilled butter can change the texture too. It makes cookies thicker and chewier, which is great for this recipe.
Enhancing flavor profiles
Spices can really boost the taste of your cookies. You can try adding nutmeg or allspice for a warm flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top creates a sweet and salty contrast. This makes each bite even more tasty.
Presentation ideas
To serve your cookies, place them on a fun, festive plate. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a sweet touch. A light sprinkle of sea salt also makes them look special. These simple steps can make your cookies stand out at any gathering.
Variations
Substituting ingredients
You can switch up the sweeteners in your cookies. Coconut sugar works well here. It gives a rich flavor and has a lower glycemic index. If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. This makes the cookies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Flavor variations
Try adding different spices to the mix. Nutmeg or ginger can bring new life to the cookies. You can also toss in some dried fruits. Raisins or cranberries add a chewy texture. If you love chocolate, add chocolate chips. They melt beautifully and create a nice contrast to the apples.
Seasonal adaptations
These cookies are perfect for any season. For fall, add pumpkin spice for a festive touch. During the winter holidays, use peppermint extract for a fresh twist. You can also shape the cookies into festive forms for special occasions. These small changes make the cookies fun and fitting for any event.
Storage Info
Best practices for storage
To keep your cookies fresh, store them properly. Use an airtight container to lock in moisture. This helps the cookies stay soft and chewy. If you want to keep them for longer, place a slice of bread in the container. The bread helps keep the cookies from drying out.
Freezing cookies
You can freeze both unbaked and baked cookies. For unbaked cookies, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet. Freeze the dough balls until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. For baked cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, layer the cookies with parchment paper in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy them later.
Shelf life
These cookies last about a week at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. For frozen cookies, plan to eat them within three months. To enjoy the best taste, eat them sooner rather than later!
FAQs
Can I use another type of apple?
You can use other apples, but some work better than others. Granny Smith apples are tart and hold up well in baking. Honeycrisp apples are another great choice. They add a nice sweetness and crunch. Avoid using apples that turn mushy when cooked, like Red Delicious.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
To check if your cookies are done, look for the edges. They should be lightly golden. The centers should look set but still soft. If they look too wet, give them another minute or two. Remember, they will continue to cook on the sheet after you take them out.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps it soften for easy scooping.
Is this recipe customizable for different diets?
Yes, this recipe can fit many diets. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar if you want a lower glycemic index. Vegan friends can use coconut oil and a flax egg instead of butter and egg.
What can I substitute for caramel bits?
If you can’t find caramel bits, you can chop soft caramels instead. Another option is to use chocolate chips for a different flavor. If you have allergies, try using butterscotch chips or leave them out altogether. The cookies will still be tasty!
This guide covered everything you need to bake amazing cookies. We talked about the right ingredients, tools, and steps to get perfect results. You learned tips for texture and flavor, along with fun variations. Don’t forget to store your cookies properly to keep them fresh. Whether for a special occasion or just because, these cookies will please anyone. So grab your ingredients and start baking! Enjoy the sweet rewards of your work.
