Mouthwatering Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of indulgent, fall-inspired treats, you’ve probably heard of Crumbl cookies, known for their oversized, gooey, and delicious creations.

Among their impressive lineup, the Caramel Apple Cookie stands out as a seasonal favorite that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.

With the comforting combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and warm cinnamon, this cookie feels like a cozy hug in every bite.

But here’s the best part: you don’t have to wait for the next Crumbl drop to enjoy this seasonal delight.

With this easy Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie recipe, you can recreate this fan-favorite in your own kitchen and fill your home with the delicious scent of baking apples and caramel.

This cookie is soft, chewy, and boasts a balance of rich flavors that will have you reaching for one after another.

Plus, you can drizzle on extra caramel for that indulgent finishing touch!

What Makes the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie So Special?

The Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie isn’t just any cookie – it’s a celebration of all things autumn wrapped up in a warm, chewy treat.

From the first bite, you’re hit with a perfectly balanced blend of flavors.

The richness of the caramel complements the tartness of the apple, while the warm notes of cinnamon evoke cozy fall afternoons.

It’s a bite that immediately transports you to a crisp, cool day where apples are ripe for picking and caramel treats are aplenty.

One of the standout features of the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie is its texture.

Unlike many cookies that are crisp or crumbly, this one is soft and chewy – almost like a hybrid between a cookie and a soft-baked apple cake.

The addition of diced apples in the dough ensures you get a delightful burst of fruitiness in every bite, creating a wonderfully moist cookie with just the right amount of bite.

Another defining element is the oversized nature of Crumbl’s cookies. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience.

Each bite is decadent, and the generous drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds a luscious finish.

This combination of texture, flavor, and size is what makes the Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie so irresistible.

Now, you don’t need to head to a Crumbl store to enjoy this fall masterpiece.

With this copycat recipe, you can bring the sweet, tart, and caramel-filled magic of Crumbl’s Caramel Apple Cookie straight to your kitchen and savor it anytime the craving strikes.

Health Benefits:

The Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies offer a few health benefits, even with their indulgent flavors:

1. Apples Provide Nutrients: Apples, one of the key ingredients, are rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
   
   They support immune function and digestive health.
   
2. Antioxidants from Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds more than flavor—it’s also packed with antioxidants, which may help fight inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
   
3. Healthy Fats from Butter: While the butter in the recipe contributes to the richness, it also provides fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, supporting healthy skin and eye function.
   
4. Caramel and Portion Control: Though caramel is a treat, using it sparingly in drizzle form can help satisfy a sweet tooth without excessive sugar intake.
   
   This cookie, with its moderate size, offers a good balance of flavors in a manageable portion.
   
5. Incorporating Natural Sweeteners: Brown sugar adds a touch of molasses-like sweetness and provides small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron, offering a slightly more nutrient-dense alternative to refined white sugar.

Ingredients for the Copycat Caramel Apple Cookie

To make your own batch of Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients.

These simple yet flavorful items come together to create a perfect balance of rich caramel, tender apples, and cinnamon-spiced dough.

For the Cookie Dough:

• Butter – Softened, to ensure the dough comes together smoothly and bakes up tender.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture.
• Granulated Sugar – For sweetness and structure.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and provide richness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookie.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the dough that gives the cookies structure.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and gives them a slight puff while baking.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
• Ground Cinnamon – The warm, cozy spice that’s perfect for fall and complements both the apples and caramel.
• Apple – You’ll want a tart apple variety, like Granny Smith, diced into small pieces for the right balance of flavor.

For the Caramel Sauce:

• Heavy Cream – Adds a rich creaminess to the caramel sauce.
• Butter – For richness and smooth texture.
• Brown Sugar – Gives the caramel its deep, caramelized flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the caramel sauce.
• A Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor of the caramel.

For Topping:

• More Caramel Sauce – For drizzling over the cookies, adding extra sweetness and richness.
• Chopped Nuts (Optional) – Adds crunch and flavor. Walnuts or pecans are great choices.
• Apple Slices or Apple Chips (Optional) – For garnish, adding an extra apple touch and a beautiful visual element.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie

Making these Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies at home is a fun and easy process that’s sure to fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of fall.

Follow these simple steps for a batch of cookies that are soft, chewy, and loaded with caramel apple goodness.

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Before making the cookie dough, start by preparing the caramel sauce.

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, butter, and brown sugar.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and continue stirring for about 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Set the sauce aside to cool while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
   
   This step is key to creating a chewy texture in the cookies.
   
2. Add eggs and vanilla: Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   
   Then stir in the vanilla extract.
   
3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
   
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   
   Be careful not to overmix.
   
4. Fold in the apples: Gently fold the diced apple pieces into the dough.
   
   The apple chunks should be evenly distributed throughout the dough, but don’t overwork the dough to keep the apples from becoming mushy.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
   
2. Shape the dough: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form large dough balls, about 2 tablespoons of dough each.
   
   Place them on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
   
3. Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
   
   The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking them to preserve that soft, chewy texture.

Step 4: Add the Caramel and Garnishes

Once the cookies have cooled slightly, it’s time to finish them off with a generous drizzle of homemade caramel sauce.

Drizzle the sauce over the top of each cookie for a decadent touch.

If desired, sprinkle some chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) on top for added crunch, and garnish with apple slices or apple chips for a beautiful, apple-forward presentation.

Tips for Perfect Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies

To ensure your Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips to help you achieve that perfect chewy texture and deliciously balanced flavor:

1. Use the Right Apples

For the best flavor and texture, go for a tart apple variety, like Granny Smith.

The tartness will balance out the sweetness of the caramel, creating a more complex and flavorful cookie.

Additionally, make sure to dice the apples into small, even pieces to avoid soggy cookies.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Once you’ve added the dry ingredients, mix until just combined.

Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies, which you definitely want to avoid.

Folding in the apples gently will help maintain the soft, tender texture that makes these cookies so special.

3. Chill the Dough (Optional)

For even thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.

This will help the cookies hold their shape better while baking and prevent them from spreading too much.

4. Watch Your Bake Time

Since Crumbl cookies are known for their soft and chewy texture, it’s important to keep an eye on the cookies while they bake.

The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you pull them out.

Remember, they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after you take them out of the oven.

5. Drizzle the Caramel When Cool

Let your cookies cool for a few minutes before drizzling them with caramel sauce.

This helps prevent the caramel from melting too quickly and ensures that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

6. Customize the Topping

While the caramel drizzle is a must, feel free to get creative with toppings.

Adding chopped nuts gives a nice crunch and complements the soft texture of the cookies.

If you want extra apple flavor, consider adding dried apple chips or thin apple slices for a beautiful garnish.

Why You’ll Love These Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, and once you make them, you’ll understand why this flavor combo is such a fan favorite.

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and warm cinnamon is a match made in heaven.

The caramel adds richness, the apples provide a burst of freshness, and the cinnamon ties it all together with cozy, fall-inspired warmth.

Each bite is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory notes that feels like a celebration of autumn.

2. Soft and Chewy Texture

Unlike crunchy or crumbly cookies, these cookies are all about that soft, chewy texture that Crumbl is known for.

The dough is thick and rich, and the addition of fresh apples makes every bite melt in your mouth.

The soft cookie paired with the rich caramel drizzle creates a textural contrast that’s truly satisfying.

3. Easy to Make at Home

While Crumbl’s cookies can be a little pricey and only available for a limited time, this homemade version allows you to enjoy the same delicious treat whenever you want.

With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this recipe brings the Crumbl experience straight to your kitchen without the hassle of going out.

4. Ideal for Fall Gatherings

There’s something about the flavor of apple and caramel that screams fall, making these cookies perfect for everything from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving desserts.

They’ll make your home smell like autumn, and they’re sure to impress guests with their rich flavor and elegant presentation.

5. Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe leaves room for customization.

Whether you want to skip the caramel drizzle, swap the apples for pears, or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, you can make these cookies your own.

The base recipe is already a winner, but there are plenty of ways to add your own personal touch.

6. They’re a Sweet, Comforting Treat

In a world full of complicated desserts, sometimes you just want a simple, comforting cookie that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket.

These cookies are exactly that—an indulgent, yet approachable treat that will give you all the warm fuzzies.

Storage Instructions:

To store your Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies, follow these simple steps to maintain their soft, chewy texture:

1. Room Temperature: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container.
   
   Store them at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
   
2. Refrigeration: If you prefer to extend their freshness, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week.
   
   Be sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
   
3. Freezing: You can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
   
   To do this, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
   
   Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
   
   To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Recipe Variations:

If you’d like to switch things up or try a new flavor twist, here are a few fun variations for your Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies:

1. Apple Cinnamon Chips: Swap out the diced apples for apple cinnamon chips for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
   
2. Caramel Apple Crumble: Add a crunchy crumble topping made from flour, butter, and brown sugar before baking. This will give the cookies a delightful crunch.
   
3. Salted Caramel: For a sweet and salty touch, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle just before serving.
   
4. Nut-Free Version: If you prefer nut-free cookies, simply omit the chopped nuts and stick with the delicious caramel apple combination.
   
5. Pumpkin Spice Twist: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the cookie dough for a fall-inspired spin on the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

These Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies are perfect for a cozy fall gathering or as a delicious treat for any occasion.

Here are some serving ideas to enhance your experience:

1. With a Cup of Hot Cider: Pair these cookies with a warm mug of spiced apple cider or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate autumn treat.
   
2. Ice Cream Sandwich: Take two cookies and place a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream in between for a decadent ice cream sandwich.
   
3. Holiday Dessert Platter: Serve these cookies on a platter alongside other fall-themed treats like pumpkin bread or cinnamon rolls for a festive dessert spread.
   
4. With a Drizzle of Extra Caramel: For an extra indulgent experience, drizzle some additional homemade caramel sauce over the cookies before serving.
   
5. Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top the cookies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies!

There’s no denying the charm of Crumbl’s famous caramel apple cookie, and with this Copycat Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookie recipe, you can bring that same indulgent flavor straight to your kitchen.

From the rich, caramel drizzle to the chewy, cinnamon-spiced cookie loaded with fresh apples, these cookies are the ultimate fall treat.

Whether you’re sharing them with family, enjoying them with a warm cup of tea, or serving them at your next gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

So go ahead, indulge in these soft, chewy, and caramel-kissed delights.

And don’t forget to tag your creations on social media – we’d love to see your version of these homemade Crumbl-inspired cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of homemade?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time.

However, making homemade caramel adds an extra layer of richness and flavor.

If using store-bought sauce, just make sure it’s a high-quality brand for the best results.

2. How can I make these cookies dairy-free or gluten-free?

To make the cookies dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free caramel sauce.

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the caramel sauce, are gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before or after baking.

To freeze before baking, portion the dough into cookie balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 hours, and then transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag for long-term storage.

When ready to bake, place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

4. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers are still soft.

They will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking them.

If you’re unsure, slightly underbaking them is better than overbaking, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.

5. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.

If you want to prepare them further in advance, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Just thaw them and drizzle with fresh caramel sauce when you’re ready to serve.