Name: Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies for Cozy Fall Indulgence
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Flour (The backbone of your cookies); 1 cup White Sugar (Adds sweetness to the cookies); 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Contributes depth and molasses flavor); 1 large Egg (Binds the ingredients together); 1 cup Cold Butter (Essential for streusel texture); 1 cup Granny Smith Apples (Provides tart flavor, can substitute with Honeycrisp); 1/4 cup Concentrated Apple Juice (Intensifies apple flavor); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Infuses warmth and aroma); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Offers warm spiciness); 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger (Adds zesty warmth); 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Elevates the spice blend); 1/4 tsp Allspice (Complements the spices); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Helps cookies rise); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Provides extra lift); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Adds tangy creaminess); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens and stabilizes frosting); 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce (Drizzle for luxurious finish); 1 cup Streusel (Adds a crunchy topping)

There’s something undeniably magical about the season when apples are at their peak, and I can hardly resist the allure of those sweet, cozy flavors! These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies capture that essence perfectly, blending soft and chewy cookie goodness with the delightful crunch of real apples and luxurious caramel. What I love most about these treats is how effortlessly they bring the warmth of a bakery to my kitchen—no waiting in line or breaking the bank required! Plus, they’re a wonderful way to indulge without feeling guilty, making them ideal for both cozy nights in and festive gatherings. Curious about how to whip up these autumn-inspired delights and impress your family? Let’s get baking!

Why are these cookies a fall favorite?

Cozy Flavors: Enjoy a delightful blend of warm spices and apple goodness that truly encapsulates the essence of autumn.

Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time, even on busy days.

Gooey Caramel: Each bite bursts with an irresistible caramel drizzle that elevates the cookie experience.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up apple types or add nuts to cater to your personal taste!

Perfect for Sharing: From family gatherings to cozy nights in, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.

Sharing alongside a warm cup of tea or pairing with a slice of Cinnamon Roll Cookies makes for the ultimate cozy indulgence!

Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake the most delightful and cozy treats of fall with the perfect blend of flavors!

For the Cookies

Granny Smith Apples – Provides a tart flavor that balances sweet caramel; alternatives like Honeycrisp offer a sweeter bite.
Cold Butter – Essential for the streusel, ensuring a crumble with the perfect texture.
Flour – The backbone of your cookies, giving them structure and chewiness.
White Sugar – Adds the sweetness needed to enhance the overall flavor.
Dark Brown Sugar – Contributes depth and a hint of molasses flavor to the cookies.
Egg – Binds all the ingredients together and adds moisture for that soft texture.
Concentrated Apple Juice – Intensifies the apple flavor in each bite.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and a lovely aroma in your cookies.
Ground Cinnamon – Offers a warm, comforting spiciness that’s perfect for fall.
Ground Ginger – Adds a hint of zesty warmth, enhancing the cozy flavors.
Ground Nutmeg – Just a pinch elevates the spice blend for those autumn vibes.
Allspice – Complements the other spices to deepen that warm aroma.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies to rise while keeping them soft and chewy.
Baking Powder – Provides extra lift for that perfect cookie texture.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and helps stabilize the frosting for perfect application.
Caramel Sauce – Drizzle this over your cookies for a luxurious, gooey finish!

Optional Topping

Streusel – A crunchy topping that adds a delightful contrast to the soft cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the perfect baking environment for your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple preparation will set you up for cookie success!

Step 2: Make the Streusel
In a skillet, melt cold butter over medium heat. Once melted, mix in flour, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes clumpy. Cook this sweet mixture until it turns a golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to maintain an even color. After cooking, remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy and light in color, typically about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air, yielding a tender texture in your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add in one egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix gently until just combined, ensuring that you don’t overmix, which can lead to dense cookies. The addition of apple juice boosts the apple flavor, making your cookies even more delightful.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies to remain soft and chewy.

Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using a large cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart—this recipe should yield about 9 balls of dough. This ensures they have room to spread while baking, creating those perfectly soft cookies we’re aiming for!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. This slightly underbaked state will ensure each bite is chewy and delicious.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to rest for a few minutes. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet to set their shape and softness. This crucial step helps develop their chewy texture, making your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies irresistible.

Step 9: Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and caramel sauce, mixing well until the frosting is fluffy. This delightful frosting will add a rich, tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with your cookies.

Step 10: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously frost each one with the creamy frosting. If you like, top your cookies with diced apple, streusel, and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce for that gourmet finish. These delicious toppings will take your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies to the next level!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are fantastic for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Simply scoop the dough onto your baking sheet and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven without thawing; they may need an extra minute or two of baking time. Additionally, the frosting can be made 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator—be sure to bring it to room temperature and re-whip for the best texture before frosting. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious cookies ready when you need them, offering the comforting flavors of fall with minimal effort!

Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild and customize these delightful cookies to match your taste and dietary preferences!

Apple Alternatives: Swap Granny Smith for Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste or Braeburn for a balanced option. Each variety brings its unique flavor profile!
Sugar Swap: Replace some white sugar with dark brown sugar for an even richer flavor. The deeper sweetness pairs beautifully with the apple and caramel.
Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and textural contrast. Their nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Go Oaty: Incorporate quick oats into the dough for a chewy texture. This twist gives a delightful heartiness, making every bite even more satisfying.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dough for a festive fall spin! It’s an unexpected yet delicious variation, enhancing that cozy vibe.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy cream cheese for frosting. You’ll still enjoy that creamy, delicious taste without the dairy.
Spice it Up: If you’re a heat lover, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising kick! The heat contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel and apple.
Frosting Alternatives: Instead of cream cheese frosting, consider a buttercream frosting or even a simple glaze for a lighter finish. This swap keeps the cookies deliciously indulgent yet versatile.

These variations enable you to adapt the cookies to delight every palate. You might find a new favorite, just like I did when I first realized how fantastic they are alongside a hot cup of chai tea or even paired with a slice of warm Apple Cake Cream for an autumn-inspired dessert spread!

What to Serve with Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

When the aroma of warm cookies fills your kitchen, it’s the perfect opportunity to elevate your fall gathering with delightful pairings.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts perfectly atop warm cookies, enhancing the caramel flavor while adding smooth creaminess. The contrast of hot and cold is simply heavenly!
Spiced Apple Cider: This cozy drink brings out the apple flavor in the cookies. Warm spices in the cider complement the cookie’s chewy texture, creating a wonderfully autumnal experience.
Pumpkin Bread: Soft, moist, and packed with spices, pumpkin bread makes a fantastic companion. The flavors harmonize beautifully, providing an inviting spread for your cozy get-togethers.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea resonate well with the cookie’s warm flavors. Sipping on this fragrant drink while nibbling a cookie creates the ultimate cozy moment.
Hot Chocolate: There’s nothing like a mug of rich hot chocolate paired with these cookies. The sweet chocolate notes beautifully contrast with the apple and caramel, making for a decadent treat.
Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweet and spiced nuts provide a delightful textural contrast to the soft cookies, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Caramel Dipping Sauce: For an extra indulgent twist, serve these cookies with a small dish of warm caramel sauce for dipping. It’s a fun way to enhance the flavors and make dessert a little interactive!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and apples balances the sweetness of the cookies. The fresh elements provide a light contrast to the rich flavors.

Each of these pairings not only complements the Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing and enjoying together.

Storage Tips for Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread helps maintain moisture, keeping them soft and chewy.
Refrigerate: If frosted, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. They can be enjoyed cold, offering a refreshing twist to their cozy flavors.
Freezing: Unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing in an airtight container. Frost them after thawing for the best texture.

Expert Tips for Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth frosting and tender dough for your cookies.

• Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture we desire.

• Dry the Apples: Pat diced apples dry before folding them into the dough to prevent excess moisture, which can result in soggy cookies.

• Slightly Underbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; removing them when still soft in the center ensures they remain chewy and delicious.

• Adjust for Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to swap some of the white sugar for dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor in your Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize your cookies with nuts or oats for added texture and flavor!

Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! The classic choice is Granny Smith apples, which offer a wonderful tartness that balances the sweetness of the caramel. If you’re after a sweeter bite, Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples make fantastic alternatives!

How should I store the cookies once I’ve baked them?
For sure! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. To keep them soft and chewy, add a slice of bread to the container—trust me, it works wonders!

Can I freeze these Easy Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies?
Yes! Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and frost them for the best texture and flavor!

What if my cookies turn out too dry?
Oh, no! If your cookies are drying out, it might be due to overmixing the dough or baking them for too long. To maintain that soft, chewy texture, I suggest checking them a minute or two early, as they continue to cook slightly once out of the oven. Also, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature when mixing.

Are these cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Great question! The base recipe doesn’t include nuts, so they should be safe for those with nut allergies. However, if you’re serving someone with a severe nut allergy, it’s always best to check your ingredient labels just to be sure, especially if you choose to add optional toppings like streusel or nuts.

How can I make these cookies more festive?
Very! You can easily put a fun twist on these cookies for the holidays by adding festive spices such as nutmeg and cloves, or even sprinkling some holiday-themed sprinkles on top of the frosting. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and decorations!