Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Introduction

There are few cookies that can capture the sweet and salty balance like Crumbl’s Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. After trying them at Crumbl, I knew I had to recreate them at home. And after several attempts, I finally managed to make a batch that tasted just as incredible! These cookies are soft, buttery, and full of flavor with a graham cracker base, a decadent cream cheese frosting, and a rich salted caramel drizzle on top. My family absolutely loved them, and they didn’t last long! They are perfect for a party, special occasion, or just an indulgent treat for yourself. If you’re a fan of Crumbl’s unique flavors, you’ll love this copycat recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies have everything you could want: a buttery graham cracker cookie base, creamy and smooth frosting, and a rich, salted caramel topping that will have you coming back for more. The flavors are indulgent without being overwhelming, and they’re a fun twist on traditional cookies and cheesecake. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Decadent flavor combination: The creamy cheesecake frosting pairs perfectly with the salty caramel drizzle.
• Easy to make: Although there are multiple steps, the process is simple and straightforward, making it achievable even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect texture: The cookies are soft and chewy in the middle with just enough crunch from the graham cracker crumbs.
• Impressive presentation: With the piping of frosting and drizzling of caramel, these cookies are beautiful and look just like something you’d find at a bakery.
• Crowd-pleasing: Whether you’re making them for a party, potluck, or just to enjoy at home, these cookies will be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup additional crushed graham crackers (for rolling)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 8 oz butter, softened
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Caramel Topping:

• 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 cup whipping cream
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Base

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix until just incorporated.
5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham crackers until evenly distributed.
6. Use a 2-inch cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each dough ball in the remaining 1/2 cup of crushed graham crackers, then place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten the cookies slightly to about 3/4 inch thick using the back of a spoon or your hands.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, whipping cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the caramel thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let the caramel cool for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

1. Pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cooled cookie, starting from the center and working outward in a circular motion.
2. Once the frosting is piped, drizzle the cooled caramel sauce over the top of the frosting using a spoon. Ensure each cookie gets a good amount of caramel drizzle.
3. Let the caramel set for about 20-30 minutes before serving so that it hardens slightly and doesn’t drip off.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 295
• Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 115mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 23g
• Protein: 2g

These cookies are a bit indulgent, but they’re perfect for a special treat when you want something sweet and satisfying!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including cooling time for caramel)

How to Serve

• These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• Serve them at a party, holiday gathering, or potluck for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Pair with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
• Present them on a platter for a beautiful display that will wow your guests.

Additional Tips

1. Use room-temperature ingredients: For the best texture and consistency, make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature.
2. Don’t skip the chilling step for the caramel: Let the caramel cool before drizzling it onto the cookies so it doesn’t run off.
3. Chill the dough before baking: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before rolling and baking.
4. Make your own caramel: If you prefer, you can make your own salted caramel sauce using a simple recipe. However, store-bought caramel can work well in a pinch.
5. Refrigerate the cookies: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes! Store-bought caramel works perfectly in this recipe for convenience.

2. How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy cream cheese alternative.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze on a tray, and once solid, transfer to a Ziploc bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

4. How long can I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

5. Can I use a different crust for the cookie base?
Yes, you can substitute crushed cookies or vanilla wafers for the graham crackers if desired.

6. Is there a way to make these cookies less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the powdered sugar in the frosting or use less caramel drizzle on top.

7. Can I use a different frosting?
You can swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple buttercream frosting if you prefer.

8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

9. What can I use instead of eggs?
To make these cookies egg-free, use a flaxseed egg or a commercial egg replacer.

10. Why is my caramel runny?
If your caramel is too runny, cook it a bit longer to thicken it up before using it on the cookies.

Conclusion

These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a perfect combination of sweet, salty, and creamy that will satisfy your cookie cravings. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just for yourself, these cookies will make a lasting impression. With a buttery graham cracker base, decadent cream cheese frosting, and rich salted caramel topping, each bite is pure bliss. So, go ahead and try this recipe—you’ll love it!

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