The first time I tasted a Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookie, my world shifted, and dessert became an obsession. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft graham cracker cookie topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a decadent drizzle of salted caramel. These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies not only satisfy a sweet tooth but also serve as a fantastic crowd-pleaser for any gathering. With quick prep time and the ability to impress friends and family, they’re the perfect remedy for anyone tired of fast food sweets. Whether you whip these up for a cozy afternoon treat or for a special occasion, each bite promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors that you won’t soon forget. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game?
Why will you crave these cookies?
Decadent flavors come together in every bite, delivering the rich taste you love from your favorite bakery while being fresh from your own oven. Easy to make, these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies require minimal effort for maximum satisfaction. Versatile options mean you can customize them with various mix-ins or flavors, ensuring they cater to every palate. Impressive presentation makes them perfect for gatherings—everyone will be begging for your secret! Plus, with the ability to freeze the dough, you can have fresh cookies on hand at any time.
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted butter for a milder taste.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps to create the cookie's structure.
- Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and adds depth; opt for light brown sugar for a softer flavor.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes to the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses warm flavor; use pure vanilla for optimal results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cookie; ensure proper measurement for consistency.
- Crushed Graham Crackers – Provides a unique flavor splash reminiscent of cheesecake crust; can substitute with cookie crumbs.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise.
- Baking Powder – Gives the cookies additional lift during baking.
- Salt – Enhances flavors; omit if using salted butter.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Key to the frosting's rich flavor; full-fat is recommended for the best taste.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and smoothens the frosting; adjust for sweetness preference.
- Marshmallow Creme – Adds fluffiness to the frosting; can be omitted for a denser version.
For the Toppings
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzle on top for a touch of sweetness; store-bought caramel makes it easy.
- Coarse Sea Salt – A finishing touch that intensifies the salted caramel flavor.
With these ingredients, your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies will be nothing short of a sensation at any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C), ensuring it's ready for those delicious Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your cookies from sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked treats with golden edges.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This aeration is crucial for achieving the ideal cookie texture, so make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Follow with a splash of pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavors. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a dreamy base for your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly mixed, making sure there are no clumps of baking powder or soda. This step ensures that your cookie dough will rise beautifully while providing that wonderful cheesecake crust flavor.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing; just blend until the dough comes together and no streaks of flour remain. The dough should be thick and somewhat sticky, ready to be shaped into delicious cookies bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion the dough into balls, about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the palm of your hand to slightly flatten each ball, as this will help the cookies spread evenly while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This contrast is essential for achieving that chewy texture that defines these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 8: Cool on Baking Sheet
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to set slightly, making them easier to transfer. After this, carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve the desired sweetness and texture. For an extra light frosting, gently fold in the marshmallow creme, creating a delightful topping for your cookies.
Step 10: Frost and Drizzle
Once the cookies have cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting generously onto each cookie. Next, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the frosting, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Finally, sprinkle with coarse sea salt to elevate the flavors and provide that perfect sweet-salty contrast that makes these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies irresistible.
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If refrigerated, the cookies can last up to a week. Ensure they are in a tight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just thaw and frost as desired!
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, enhancing the softness of these delicious Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop and flatten the chilled dough onto a baking sheet. Additionally, you can make the cream cheese frosting and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before using. To maintain their quality, refrigerate the baked cookies if they won’t be frosted immediately, and frost them just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste!
Expert Tips for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your salted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming, which creates a light and fluffy texture in your cookie dough.
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Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients. This ensures your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies remain soft and chewy rather than tough.
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Uniform Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized dough balls. This helps them bake uniformly, ensuring everyone enjoys the same perfect texture.
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Proper Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart and maintains their chewy centers.
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Flexible Frosting: If the frosting is too stiff, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency, making it easier to spread or pipe on the cookies.
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Salted Caramel Variation: For a richer taste, consider making homemade salted caramel, enhancing that delicious sweet-salty contrast in every bite.
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Customize your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies with delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Nutty Bliss: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for a crunchy texture and rich flavor contrast.
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Choco-Lover's Delight: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs perfectly with the salty caramel.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk-based caramel sauce for a deliciously creamy treat.
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Fruit Infusion: Add a handful of dried cranberries or blueberries into the dough for a fruity twist that brightens each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cookie dough for a warm, spicy depth of flavor.
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Pudding Mix Boost: Stir in a packet of vanilla pudding mix with the dry ingredients to create an even softer texture that melts in your mouth.
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Flavored Frosting: Explore different extracts like almond or lemon in the cream cheese frosting to give a refreshing zing to your cookies.
These variations keep the heart of the original recipe while allowing you to explore new and exciting tastes. Have fun experimenting, and let your creativity shine! If you're looking for more inspirations, why not check out our delicious cookie serving suggestions or learn how to store and freeze cookies?
What to Serve with Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Indulging in these decadent cookies creates a memorable dessert experience that pairs beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments.
- Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing that balances sweetness with creaminess, enhancing the cookie’s flavors.
- Rich Coffee: A cozy sip of rich coffee brings out the buttery notes in the cookies, offering a satisfying after-dinner treat.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting ice cream adds a luscious touch.
- Fresh Berries: A burst of tangy berries on the side cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your cookie elevates its indulgence, pairing beautifully with the caramel and frosting.
- Caramel Latte: Complement the sweet notes with a caramel latte; this drink enhances the cookie's flavors and creates a sumptuous pairing.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream on top adds an airy contrast, making every bite a cloud of flavor.
- Nutty Brownies: For a dessert platter, pair with fudgy brownies; their rich flavor complements the cheesecake cookie decadence.
- Sparkling Water: Cleanse your palate with a refreshing sparkling water to highlight the sweet and salty layers of the cookie.
- Chai Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of chai; the aromatic spices harmonize splendidly with the cookie's creamy frosting and caramel.
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect graham crackers for the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Look for graham crackers that are fresh and free from cracks or breaks. They should be slightly sweet and not overly processed. I recommend using plain graham crackers instead of flavored ones for that classic cheesecake crust taste.
What’s the best way to store baked cookies?
Great question! To keep your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll stay good for a week.
Can I freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies?
Definitely! You can freeze un-frosted cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw them in the fridge overnight, frost, and enjoy!
What if my cookies turn out tough?
Oh no, that can happen! The most common reason for tough cookies is overmixing the dough. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Additionally, be gentle when shaping your cookie dough balls, and avoid flattening them too much before baking. The aim is soft and chewy!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re baking for guests, check for allergies, particularly to gluten (from flour) or dairy (from butter and cream cheese). You could offer a dairy-free version by using vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives to accommodate those with specific dietary needs.
How long do these cookies last after being frosted?
After frosting, your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3-5 days at room temperature. However, the frosting can soften over time, so for the best texture, enjoy them within the first couple of days!
Decadent Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together softened salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, and then add vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, whisking until mixed.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the dough comes together.
- Portion the dough into balls about the size of a tablespoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening each slightly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown but centers remain soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar and folding in marshmallow creme if using.
- Frost cooled cookies generously with cream cheese frosting, drizzle with caramel sauce, and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
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