Craving something sweet and delicious? You’ve come to the right place! My Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies recipe is easy to follow and will bring fall flavors right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll bake warm, gooey cookies in no time. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a pro, this recipe will impress everyone. Ready to start baking? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies, gather these ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple, skin removed)
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (optional)
Tips for Ingredient Substitutions
If you lack some ingredients, here are smart swaps:
– Replace unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil.
– Use light brown sugar instead of dark for a milder flavor.
– For a vegan option, use a flax egg in place of the large egg.
– Apples can vary; try Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness.
– Substituting caramel sauce with honey can offer a different taste.
Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh apples add a crisp flavor that dried or old fruit cannot match. Quality butter enhances the cookies’ texture and taste. Fresh spices, like cinnamon, bring out the best in each bite. This focus on freshness ensures your cookies are not only tasty but also enjoyable to share. Always check your ingredients before you start baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a good temperature for baking. Next, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not stick.
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, add 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Grab an electric mixer and beat the mix on medium speed. You want it to be light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes.
Mixing In Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, crack 1 large egg into the bowl. Pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract next. Keep mixing until everything is smooth. In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Folding In Add-ins
Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix! It can change the cookie’s texture. Now, gently fold in 1 cup of grated apple and 1/2 cup of caramel sauce. If you like, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
Shaping, Baking, and Cooling the Cookies
Use a tablespoon to scoop out cookie dough and place them on your baking sheet. Keep them 2 inches apart. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers soft. After baking, let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your cookies!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies, avoid these pitfalls:
– Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Too much mixing makes tough cookies.
– Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Use a scale or measuring cups. This ensures the right texture.
– Using Cold Butter: Softened butter creams well with sugar. Cold butter won’t mix properly.
– Baking on an Unlined Sheet: Always line your baking sheet. It prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy.
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get that soft and chewy texture, follow these steps:
– Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This includes butter and egg. They mix better for a smooth dough.
– Bake Until Just Set: Look for lightly golden edges. The centers should appear soft and slightly underbaked.
– Cool on a Wire Rack: This allows air to circulate. It helps maintain the cookie’s ideal texture.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spices
For a flavor boost, consider these spices:
– Nutmeg: Add a pinch for warmth. It pairs well with apple and caramel.
– Allspice: This adds a hint of clove and cinnamon. It enriches the cookie’s flavor.
– Ginger: A small amount brings a nice zing. It complements the sweetness of caramel.
Feel free to experiment with these tips. They can help you create cookies that impress!
Variations
Alternative Toppings and Mix-ins
You can change up your Crumbl copycat caramel apple cookies with fun toppings. Here are some ideas:
– Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a sweet touch.
– Sprinkle sea salt for a salty-sweet mix.
– Add crushed graham crackers for a crunchy base.
– Use dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for added chewiness.
– Try different nuts like almonds or pecans for variety.
Each change can give your cookies a new flavor. Get creative and find your favorite mix-ins!
Gluten-Free Adaptations
Want to make these cookies gluten-free? It’s easy! Here’s how:
– Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
– Make sure the baking powder is gluten-free as well.
– Check all packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
This way, you can enjoy the same delicious cookies without gluten!
Vegan Options
If you want a vegan version, here’s what to do:
– Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
– Use a flax egg instead of a large egg. To make this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
– Choose a vegan caramel sauce or make your own with coconut milk and sugar.
These swaps keep the flavor and texture while making it vegan-friendly!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cookies
After baking your Crumbl Copycat Caramel Apple Cookies, let them cool completely. Once cool, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and moist. You can store them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Freezing Options for Longer Shelf Life
Freezing cookies is simple and effective. First, ensure the cookies are fully cooled. Then, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents freezer burn. You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature.
Best Practices for Reheating Cookies
Reheating cookies can bring back their fresh-baked taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This warms them up and softens any firmness. For a quick option, you can use a microwave. Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy those warm, gooey bites!
FAQs
What is the best way to soften butter?
To soften butter, take it out of the fridge. Let it sit at room temp for about 30 minutes. You can also cut it into small pieces to speed up the process. If you’re in a hurry, use a microwave. Heat it for just a few seconds. Watch closely to avoid melting.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use different apples. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala work well. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance. Just make sure to peel and grate them. This helps blend the flavor into the dough.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
To keep cookies soft, do not overbake them. Look for lightly golden edges and soft centers. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving. You can also add a bit more brown sugar for moisture.
What can I substitute for caramel sauce?
If you need a substitute for caramel sauce, try using dulce de leche. It has a similar sweet and creamy taste. You can also make your own caramel with sugar, butter, and cream. This way, you control the flavor and texture.
How long do these cookies last?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temp. Store them in an airtight container to keep them soft. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. They can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Chill it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you want to save it longer, freeze the dough. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking. This makes for easy cookie prep when you’re ready to bake.
This blog post covered key points for baking cookies. We explored essential ingredients, tips for substitutions, and the importance of freshness. I shared step-by-step instructions, common mistakes, and how to achieve the perfect cookie texture. You learned about variations for different diets and smart storage methods.
Baking cookies can be fun and rewarding. With the right approach, you can make delicious treats every time. Enjoy your baking journey and share your creations!
