There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of sweet and salty, especially when it comes in the form of a cookie. When I first tried a Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookie, I knew I had to recreate that deliciousness in my own kitchen. Fast forward to a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I found myself whisking together the perfect balance of buttery graham cracker goodness and creamy cheesecake frosting. Each bite is a delightful journey of flavors, with a drizzle of homemade caramel that elevates these cookies from ordinary to extraordinary.
These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are not just easy to make; they’re a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or just want a satisfying treat after dinner, this recipe hits the sweet spot. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of cookie baking and transform your kitchen into a haven of scrumptious scents!
Why are Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Combination: Sweet and salty flavors meld perfectly, creating a cookie experience you won’t forget.
Decadent Frosting: The luscious cheesecake frosting adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the cookie base.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up with confidence!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap in different bases or add chocolate for a personal twist.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies will disappear quickly at any event!
Indulge in the full flavors of these delightful cookies and impress your friends with this popular dessert trend.
Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the dough; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to a lovely browning effect.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and depth of flavor with its natural molasses.
• Eggs – Provide essential structure and bind all the delicious ingredients together.
• Vanilla Extract – Offers a sweet, aromatic flavor that elevates the cookie base.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the main structure, ensuring a perfect cookie texture.
• Graham Crackers – Provides the signature base flavor; can substitute with gluten-free graham crackers if desired.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly, adding to their chewy texture.
• Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for proper leavening.
For the Cheesecake Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Essential for that creamy frosting; opt for full-fat for the best results.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives structure, making the frosting luxuriously thick.
For the Caramel Drizzle
• Whipping Cream – Adds silkiness to the homemade caramel sauce.
• Caramel Ingredients (brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, salt) – Create a rich, delectable topping; store-bought caramel can be substituted if you’re short on time.
Transform your baking today with these Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies and delight in each scrumptious bite!
How to Make Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
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Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to line your baking sheets with parchment paper, which helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
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Dough Mixing: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes! Then, blend in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
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Combine Ingredients: Next, gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and crushed graham crackers. Stop mixing as soon as everything is just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
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Shaping Cookies: Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, scoop the dough and then roll each ball in the remaining crushed graham crackers. Flatten each ball slightly and place them on your prepared baking sheets, allowing some space in between.
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Baking: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Once done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Frosting Preparation: While your cookies cool, beat together the cream cheese and butter in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
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Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, salt, and whipping cream. Boil while stirring for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. After removing it from the heat, stir in the vanilla and let the caramel cool.
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Assembly: Finally, frost your cooled cookies generously with the cream cheese frosting. Drizzle the homemade caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to set before diving in!
Optional: Try crushing some nuts and sprinkling them on top for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
• Soften Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to ensure smooth creaming and better dough texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired tender texture.
• Proper Measuring: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurement of your flour; too much can cause dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Decorative Frosting: For a professional finish, use a piping bag to apply the cream cheese frosting; it adds both flair and uniformity to your cookies.
Enjoy these Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, and remember: baking is all about experimentation and love!
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and softness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cookies in the fridge; just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out. They can last up to a week this way.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This will refresh their gooey texture!
Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these cookies with different flavors and ingredients!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and graham crackers to cater to your dietary needs while still enjoying the deliciousness.
- Cookies-and-Cream Twist: Substitute crushed Oreo cookies for graham crackers in the base for an indulgent cookies-and-cream experience. It’s a delightful change that will wow your taste buds!
- Chocolate Explosion: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an extra chocolatey flavor kick. These cookies become decadently rich with each bite.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts the creamy frosting. It’s a perfect balance!
- Different Extracts: Switch vanilla for almond or hazelnut extract in the frosting to add a unique twist to the creaminess. It can create an entirely new cookie experience!
- Caramel Variations: Drizzle with flavored caramel sauce, such as salted caramel or espresso caramel, for an enticing addition that enhances the original sweetness.
- Spice it Up: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for seasonal enjoyment.
- Heat Levels: For a playful kick, fold in finely chopped jalapeños or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the frosting for a sweet and spicy combination.
Embrace the joy of baking and make these cookies your own with these delightful variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after mixing and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a fresher cookie when baked. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; just give it a quick whip before using to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious cookies, simply scoop, bake, and finish with the frosting and caramel drizzle for that sweet, satisfying delight.
What to Serve with Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies?
Elevate your cookie experience by pairing them with delightful sides that complement their sweet and salty profile.
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Rich Coffee: A cup of bold, hot coffee balances the sweetness of these cookies, enhancing their flavors beautifully. The warmth also makes them even more inviting as a dessert treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a luscious contrast to the chewy cookie, providing an indulgent, dessert-on-dessert moment that will wow your taste buds.
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Fresh Berries: Light and juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast, their tartness perfectly cutting through the richness of the cookies. This pairing brings a vibrant touch to your dessert spread.
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Milk: A classic companion for cookies, cold milk enhances the flavors and offers a calming balance to the sweet, chewy texture. The combination takes you back to childhood memories of snack time.
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Sparkling Water: For a lighter accompaniment, opt for sparkling water. Its effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, making each taste of the cookie as delightful as the first.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a thick chocolate milkshake for a retro touch. The thick, creamy chocolate flavor pairs perfectly, making for an unforgettable dessert experience.
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Caramel Drizzle: Serve extra homemade caramel on the side for those who crave more sweetness. Just drizzle it over each cookie or let guests top their own for a fun, interactive twist.
Feel free to play around with these pairings to create your perfect dessert moment—each option brings its own magic to the table!
Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for the best control over the saltiness of the cookies. Be sure to have it softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugars.
How do I know when the cookies are baked properly?
Very! The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly soft. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit underbaked when you take them out of the oven!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Of course! To freeze, let the unfrosted cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and frost when you’re ready to enjoy!
How should I store the finished cookies?
You can store your Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5 days. If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they’re sealed tightly to maintain moisture.
What to do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If you find that your dough is too dry, which can happen if the flour was measured too densely, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This should help the dough come together nicely without sacrificing texture!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
You’ll find that these cookies contain common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you want to make them gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free graham crackers. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.
Delicious Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Blend in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and crushed graham crackers until just combined.
- Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, scoop the dough, roll each ball in the remaining crushed graham crackers, slightly flatten them, and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges turn golden brown, then let cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Combine the butter, brown sugar, salt, and whipping cream in a saucepan, boil while stirring for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in the vanilla and let cool.
- Frost your cooled cookies with the cream cheese frosting and drizzle the homemade caramel sauce over the top.