Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about cookies that made us feel as if we were wrapped in a warm hug. Anyone who has ever taken a bite of a freshly baked cookie knows that moment of bliss—when the sweetness melds with the warmth and transports you back to simpler times. Among the myriad cookie varieties, one of my all-time favorites is the salted caramel cheesecake cookie, reminiscent of those heavenly creations from Crumbl.

When I decided to create my own version at home, I anticipated a challenging bake, but instead, I discovered a recipe that felt like a delightful dance in my kitchen. It incorporates rich flavors of cream cheese, brown sugar, and that decadent layer of salted caramel that makes your taste buds sing! So grab your apron, let’s bake some magic together.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 30 minutes
• Active Cooking: 15 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: 24 cookies
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: 280
• Protein: 3g per serving
• Carbs: 42g per serving
• Fats: 12g per serving
• Fiber: 0g per serving
• Sugars: 25g per serving
• Sodium: 150mg per serving

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies at Home

These cookies are far more than just dessert—they’re an experience! Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie that combines the lusciousness of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of homemade cookies. Each bite is perfectly balanced with sweet caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt that perfectly captures that craving for something indulgent. They’re perfect for cozy evenings, festive gatherings, or a sweet treat to share with friends!

The Complete Cooking Journey

The journey from mixing the ingredients to pulling these cookies warm from the oven is filled with excitement. The process is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. The smell of sweet vanilla wafts through the air, mingling with the freshness of the baked cookies. Let’s embark on this delicious journey step-by-step!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Crushed Graham Crackers
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Salt (sea salt)
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
• 2 cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 pinch Salt

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting the perfect cookie texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the two large eggs (at room temperature) and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture will become smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup crushed graham crackers, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In another bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Set this delightful filling aside.

Step 7: Shape & Fill the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, take a generous amount of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center and wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it well. Roll into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a bit underbaked, but that’s perfect to ensure they stay soft!

Step 9: Prepare the Salted Caramel Drizzle

While the cookies are baking, prepare the salted caramel drizzle by combining 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until smooth and bubbling and then remove from heat. Allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the warm cookies.

Step 10: Cool and Garnish

Once the cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Drizzle the salted caramel over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with a bit more sea salt if desired.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These cookies are a perfect treat on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a steaming cup of coffee. You can also enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or during a cozy movie night with your loved ones.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
• Don’t skip chilling your cookies before baking if you want them to hold their shape well.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract for a deep, rich flavor.
• Experiment with adding other flavors, such as a hint of espresso powder for a mocha twist!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

You can switch up the flavor profile by adding chocolate chips, walnuts, or even crushed toffee pieces to the cookie dough. For a seasonal twist, consider incorporating pumpkin spice or peppermint extract in the cream cheese filling!

Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use margarine instead of butter?
  While margarine can work, using unsalted butter will give the best flavor and texture.

• What if I don’t have cream cheese?
  You can substitute it with mascarpone or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.

• How can I avoid flat cookies?
  Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.

• Can I low-carb this recipe?
  Consider using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and a sugar substitute to reduce carbohydrates.

• What do I do if my cookies are too chewy?
  If your cookies turn out too chewy, it may be due to overmixing the dough or not measuring your flour accurately. Always scoop and level your flour!

Wrapping Up

There you have it—decadent copycat Crumbl salted caramel cheesecake cookies that are not only accessible but also immensely satisfying to make and eat. I hope this recipe finds its way into your home, just like it did into mine. There’s a heartwarming joy in baking that goes beyond the kitchen, bringing families and friends together over sweet moments. Happy baking, and remember to savor each delicious bite!

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