Name: Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (softened); 3/4 cup Imperial Sugar granulated sugar; 1/4 cup Imperial Sugar dark brown sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 2 tbsp concentrated apple juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/8 tsp nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ginger; 1/8 tsp allspice; 3/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup flour; 1 tbsp Imperial Sugar granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tbsp butter (cold, cubed); 5 oz cream cheese (softened); 4 tbsp butter (softened); 3 tbsp caramel sauce (homemade or store bought); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup Imperial Sugar powdered sugar; 1 green apple (sliced into cubes)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 60 reviews

If you are a fan of warm, cozy flavors and the irresistible charm of fall baked goods, you’re in for a treat with this Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe. These cookies capture the crisp sweetness of fresh apples, the sparkle of aromatic spices, and a luscious cream cheese frosting drizzled with caramel that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe invites you to relish the nostalgia of homemade goodness with a fun Crumbl-inspired twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a rough, crumbly dough mixture that is light brown in color, sitting in the center. The dough has a textured, slightly sticky look with uneven clumps. The inside of the bowl shows smears and patches of flour in white, contrasting with the dough. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. The image is taken from above, showing the full round shape of the bowl and its handles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in these apple cookies. Each component plays a starring role, from the soft butter that promises tender bites to the blend of warm spices that make every cookie smell like a bakery fresh from the oven.

Butter (1/2 cup softened): Provides richness and helps create a soft, tender cookie texture.
Imperial Sugar granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with browning for a lovely golden cookie.
Imperial Sugar dark brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings a deep, molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with spices.
Large egg (1, at room temperature): Binds the ingredients and keeps the cookies moist.
Concentrated apple juice (2 tbsp): Boosts apple flavor and adds subtle natural sweetness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all flavors with its warm, fragrant notes.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the cookie’s base and structure.
Cinnamon (3/4 tsp): A classic spice that adds warmth and complements apples perfectly.
Nutmeg (1/8 tsp): Adds a hint of earthiness for depth.
Ginger (1/4 tsp): Brings a subtle zing that enlivens the spice mix.
Allspice (1/8 tsp): Rounds out the spice blend with its rich aroma.
Baking soda (3/4 tsp): Leavens the cookies, helping them rise just right.
Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Adds extra lift and softness.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Cream cheese (5 oz, softened): The base of the luscious frosting, adding tangy creaminess.
Butter (4 tbsp softened, plus 1 ½ tbsp cold cubed): Used in both the frosting and the streusel topping for richness.
Caramel sauce (3 tbsp): Infuses the frosting with sweet buttery notes—use homemade for the best taste.
Imperial Sugar powdered sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth texture.
Flour (1/4 cup): Key for the streusel topping’s crumbly texture.
Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): Adds crunch and sweetness to the streusel topping.
Cinnamon (1/4 tsp for streusel): Provides warmth and depth to the topping.
Salt (1/4 tsp for streusel): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Green apple (1, sliced into cubes): Fresh garnish that adds crispness and bursts of apple flavor.

How to Make Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, then remove from heat. Stir in flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture forms moist clumps. Return to heat and stir frequently until the streusel turns golden brown. Set aside on a plate to cool; this crunchy, spiced topping will add delightful texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy and light. Beat in the egg, concentrated apple juice, and vanilla extract for a fragrant, moist dough base. Gradually fold in the flour paired with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, salt, baking soda, and baking powder until just combined—don’t overmix or you’ll lose tender crumb.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake

Use a large cookie scooper (about 1/4 cup) to portion out nine evenly sized dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, or until the edges begin to lightly brown. Allow the cookies to cool fully; this is crucial for the frosting to hold its shape.

Step 5: Craft the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract, then whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy—a perfect contrast to the spice-rich cookie base.

Step 6: Assemble Your Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe

Spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting generously over each cooled cookie. Top with cubed green apples, sprinkle cooled streusel on top, and finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce. These finishing touches make every bite an extraordinary mix of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe

Three round cookies form the base layer, each with a golden-brown color and slightly rough texture. On top of each cookie is a thick, smooth layer of white cream, evenly spread in a circle. The cream is sprinkled with small pieces of green apple, cut into cubes, and light brown crumbly bits scattered over. A caramel-colored sauce is drizzled in thin stripes across the top of each cookie. The cookies are placed on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cubed green apples add a refreshing crispness that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookies and creamy frosting, while a drizzle of caramel sauce introduces a glossy, sweet finish that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of apple cider, chai tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting afternoon treat or decadent dessert experience. The warm drinks amplify the spices and make for an indulgent pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe on a rustic wooden platter garnished with cinnamon sticks and apple slices for a festive touch. For parties, display them in individual clear bags tied with twine or colorful ribbon to gift your friends a slice of homemade joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cookies maintain their softness, while the frosting stays creamy and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and garnishing to preserve the perfect texture.

Reheating

If you want that just-baked warmth, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in a 300°F oven. This will soften the cookies and slightly melty frosting, making each bite even more heavenly.

FAQs

Can I substitute the concentrated apple juice?

Absolutely! If you don’t have concentrated apple juice, apple cider or even a little extra vanilla extract can be used, though the concentrated apple juice gives a uniquely intense apple flavor that really shines in this recipe.

What type of apples work best for the topping?

Green apples such as Granny Smith are ideal because their tartness balances the sweetness of the cookies and frosting while maintaining a nice crisp texture.

Is it necessary to use all the spices listed?

The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice creates a beautiful warming profile that complements the apple flavor perfectly. You can adjust amounts to your taste, but cutting out any will change the character of the cookie.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To keep the texture light but gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or a binding agent to get the best results.

How long will the frosting keep on the cookies?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, the cream cheese frosting will remain delicious for up to 3 days. Just bring cookies to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cookies – Crumbl Copycat Recipe is like bringing a little bakery magic right into your own kitchen. With fragrant spices, luscious cream cheese frosting, and the bright crunch of fresh apples, these cookies are sure to become a beloved go-to treat. I can’t wait for you to try them and enjoy every heartfelt bite just like I do!