There’s an undeniable joy that fills the kitchen when the scent of warm cookies starts wafting through the air. I found myself in that magical moment recently while killing time before dinner, and I concocted a delightful twist on a beloved classic: Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. Imagine sinking your teeth into an oversized cookie featuring a buttery, soft base that gives way to a luscious cheesecake filling, all topped with a decadent drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s the perfect dance of sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy. These cookies are not just a simple treat; they’re a splendid experience waiting to unfold right at your dining table. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dessert to enjoy with your evening tea or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, these cookies are bound to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Let me take you through the easy steps to create these gooey, indulgent delights!
Why are Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies irresistible?
Texture Galore: These cookies combine a soft, chewy base with a creamy cheesecake filling, resulting in an unforgettable mouthfeel.
Sweet and Salty Bliss: The fusion of rich caramel with a touch of sea salt makes for a perfectly balanced flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to switch up the flavors! Substitute graham cracker crumbs or toss in some chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Time-Saving Treat: With freezer-friendly options, you can whip up a batch whenever a cookie craving strikes, without any fuss.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, these oversized cookies are sure to steal the show and leave your guests wanting more!
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a deep, caramel-like flavor; adds moisture for chewiness.
• Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps improve cookie crispiness.
• Eggs – Acts as a binding agent and helps cookies rise for that delightful fluffy texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a more intense aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the cookies; can substitute 1:1 with a gluten-free blend.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
• Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda to ensure your cookies are fluffy.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese – The creamy base for the cheesecake filling, adding a tangy flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and provides a smooth texture for that rich cheesecake experience.
For the Toppings
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Adds a crunchy texture and flavor reminiscent of traditional cheesecake crust.
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzled on top for added sweetness and richness; homemade recommended for best results.
• Flaky Sea Salt – Sprinkled on top to enhance the dessert’s flavor, creating a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
Dive into the joy of baking with these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies—an experience that combines sweet and salty notes, making them irresistible!
How to Make Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
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Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once mixed, scoop the filling into teaspoon-sized portions and place them in the freezer to set.
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Make Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine everything.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
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Assemble Cookies: Take a scoop of cookie dough and gently wrap it around each frozen cheesecake scoop, ensuring they’re fully encased. Make sure to seal the ends well so the filling stays inside while baking.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges look set while the centers remain soft.
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Add Toppings: Directly after removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle them with graham cracker crumbs, drizzle generously with caramel sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to take the flavor to the next level.
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Cool: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before savoring the gooey goodness inside!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Freeze Cheesecake Filling: Ensure the cheesecake filling is completely frozen before encasing in cookie dough to maintain its shape during baking.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; slightly underbaked cookies will remain soft and chewy, enhancing that gooey experience.
Chill Cookie Dough: Consider chilling the cookie dough for a bit before shaping. This can help prevent spreading and maintain the cookies’ fluffy texture.
Topping Techniques: Add toppings immediately after baking for optimal adhesion. Drizzle caramel generously for that extra bit of indulgence!
Storage Magic: Store cookies in the fridge to keep the cheesecake filling fresh, or freeze dough for quick, fresh-baked cookies whenever a craving strikes!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and freeze it in teaspoon-sized scoops up to 3 days ahead to save time. Simply mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then freeze the scoops until solid. Additionally, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, encase the frozen cheesecake scoops in the chilled cookie dough, and bake as instructed. This means you can enjoy freshly baked cookies on busy weeknights with minimal effort—just as delicious as if they were made from scratch in one go!
Storage Tips for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Fridge: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their gooey texture and fresh flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Dough Freezing: Prepare and freeze cookie dough balls filled with cheesecake for up to 2 months—just bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. The gooey filling will come to life again!
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these cookies to match your cravings and preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
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Nutty Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed almonds or walnuts for an extra crunchy texture.
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Flavored Cheesecake: Add flavored extracts like lemon, almond, or orange to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing twist.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough for an extra layer of indulgence.
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Caramel Swirl: Mix in some caramel sauce into the cookie dough itself for an ooey-gooey extra treat hidden inside.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising spicy-sweet combination.
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Fruitful Addition: Toss in dried fruits, like cranberries or cherries, for a delightful fruity contrast to the richness.
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Seasonal Flavor: For holiday fun, replace some flour with pumpkin puree and warm spices to create a fall-inspired version.
What to Serve with Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies?
Treat yourself to a delightful experience that pairs perfectly with these luscious cookies.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: A warm cup enhances the cookies’ sweetness, offering a comforting start to your day or a relaxing afternoon pick-me-up.
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Chilled Milk: The classic combination that balances rich flavors and creamy textures, making every bite of your cookie even more enjoyable.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s a decadent symphony of flavors and temperatures.
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Sweet Tea: A refreshing contrast to the gooey cookies; the subtle sweetness of the tea complements the rich caramel beautifully.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in this delightful pairing for a fun, nostalgic treat, with chocolate smoothness enhancing the sweetness of the cookies.
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Mixed Berry Salad: A light, fresh side that adds a burst of tartness; the berries’ acidity balances the richness of the cookies perfectly.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A touch of homemade caramel sauce served on the side is perfect for dipping, bringing an even sweeter delight to every bite.
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Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Bright and invigorating, this bubbly refresher cleanses the palate, allowing the cookie flavors to shine through.
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Chocolate Chip Scones: These paired baked goods create a cozy assortment, with the softness of scones complementing the chewy cookies beautifully.
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Decadent Brownie Sundae: For the ultimate dessert feast, serve these cookies alongside a brownie topped with ice cream, creating a deliciously rich experience.
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting cream cheese for the filling?
When selecting cream cheese, choose a brand that has a smooth and creamy texture. Make sure it is full-fat for the best flavor and creaminess. Look for packages with a firm-close seal to ensure freshness, and avoid anything with a lot of air bubbles or that appears overly soft. Cream cheese that’s too warm can be hard to mix into a smooth filling.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their gooey texture and freshest flavors. For optimal preservation, place a piece of parchment paper in between layers to prevent them from sticking together. If you’ve made a big batch and want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them.
Can I freeze Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. If you want to enjoy one warm, you can bake straight from the frozen state; just add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time.
What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading too much, it may be due to warm dough, so try chilling your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. Ensure your butter isn’t too soft—using slightly firmer butter is better. Lastly, overmixing the dough can also lead to excessive spreading, so mix just until combined for best results.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! For a gluten-free adaptation, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be cautious with toppings if serving to individuals with allergies, specifically checking labels on store-bought caramel sauces and graham crackers for cross-contamination issues. If you’re cooking for pets, it’s crucial to keep these cookies away from them because the chocolate (if using) and high sugar content can be harmful.
How long do the cheesecake filling scoops need to freeze?
The cheesecake filling should be frozen for at least 1 to 2 hours to ensure they maintain their shape when encased in cookie dough. This step is crucial in preventing the cheesecake from melting into the cookies while they bake, ensuring that you have that delightful gooey filling when you take a bite!
Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies You’ll Crave Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once mixed, scoop the filling into teaspoon-sized portions and place them in the freezer to set.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly combine with the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Take a scoop of dough and gently wrap it around each frozen cheesecake scoop, sealing the ends well.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Immediately after baking, sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, drizzle with caramel sauce, and top with flaky sea salt.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before enjoying.