– **Title**: Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
– 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
– Sea salt, for sprinkling on top
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the caramel sauce until it is well incorporated. If using, add the mini chocolate chips and mix gently.
6. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, drizzle more caramel sauce over the cookies and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for garnish.
10. Serve and enjoy your Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for baking, as it allows you to control the salt content. If you run out, feel free to use margarine, but cookies may be a bit different in texture.
Sugars: The combination of granulated and brown sugar gives these cookies a delightful taste and texture. For a healthier option, you can substitute coconut sugar, but it may change the cookies’ color slightly.
Cream Cheese: Vital for the frosting, cream cheese offers that rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a twist.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is convenient and delicious. If you have time, making homemade caramel can elevate the flavor. You might also substitute with butterscotch sauce if you prefer that taste.
How Do You Make the Perfect Cheesecake Frosting?
A smooth cheesecake frosting is what makes these cookies stand out. To achieve this, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature, which helps them blend easily.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually be patient when adding the powdered sugar, as this helps avoid lumps. Mix until fully combined.
- If it appears too thick, slowly add heavy cream until you find your desired consistency. This step is key for the perfect spreadable frosting.
How to Make Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Allow some additional time for the cookies to cool completely before frosting them, which could take around 30 minutes. In total, plan for about 1 hour for everything, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookie Base:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Once mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as it can make the cookies tough.
3. Shape and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop out dough balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Gently flatten each dough ball a little to ensure even baking. Bake them in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is important for the frosting to stick well!
4. Prepare the Cheesecake Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until they are creamy and well-blended. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If your frosting feels too thick, you can add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach the consistency you like.
5. Frost the Cookies:
Once your cookies are completely cooled, take a generous scoop of cheesecake frosting and spread it on top of each cookie. You can use a knife or a spatula for this step. Don’t be shy—make it nice and fluffy!
6. Add Caramel Drizzle:
Warm your caramel sauce slightly so it’s easy to drizzle. Pour it generously over the frosting on each cookie. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for more control over your drizzle. Lastly, sprinkle a touch of sea salt over the top for that perfect salted caramel taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the cookies set for a bit to enjoy the layers of flavor. Serve these delicious Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies with a cup of coffee or as a delightful treat for dessert. They’re sure to impress!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese in the Frosting?
Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer! Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so adjust the sweetness to your taste when using substitutes.
How Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Look for one that includes xanthan gum to help with texture. You may need to adjust the amount slightly, so start with the same measurement and add as needed until you achieve the right dough consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer freezing, store them in a freezer-safe container and they will last up to 3 months. Just be sure to frost them after thawing for the best taste!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.
