Introduction
Imagine cookies that boast a buttery, soft cookie base, bursting with a creamy cheesecake filling while delicately drizzled with sweet caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a sweet sensation that will take your dessert game to the next level! Inspired by the famous Crumbl cookie, these delightful treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying as a well-deserved indulgence. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-follow recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Overview of the Recipe
When you make these Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, you can expect a delightful treat that marries the richness of cheesecake with the sweet comfort of cookies. Each cookie is a perfect balance of soft, chewy texture infused with an irresistible creaminess in the center. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a total of 40 minutes from start to finish, these cookies are deceptively simple yet entirely satisfying.
History and Origin
The rise of cookie cafes like Crumbl has revolutionized how we view dessert. Inspired by traditional cookie recipes and cheesecake flavors, the Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies pay homage to both classic and modern culinary delights. This recipe intricately combines beloved flavors while allowing anyone to recreate these trendy treats right at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these magnificent cookies:
For the Cookie Base:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ cup sour cream
For the Salted Caramel Topping:
– ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your own Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies:
1. Prepare the Cookie Base:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
– In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
– Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
– In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
– Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
3. Assemble the Cookies:
– Using a cookie scoop, drop a tablespoon of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie.
– Create a small well in the center of each cookie dough ball with your thumb or the back of a spoon.
– Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into the center of each cookie.
4. Bake:
– Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the cheesecake filling is set.
– Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Add the Caramel Topping:
– Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with a touch of sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty contrast.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These delicious cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They make an excellent treat for Sunday brunch, birthday parties, or even cozy family gatherings. Serve them on a beautiful platter for a stunning dessert display!
Variations of the Recipe
– Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
– Vegan: Use vegan butter, flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg), and dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based version.
– Flavor Twist: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough or swap the caramel for chocolate ganache for a sweet variation.
Health Benefits and Notes
While these cookies are definitely an indulgent treat, you can still feel good about the ingredients. Cream cheese is a source of calcium, while the addition of sour cream helps to maintain a creamy texture without overtly compromising flavor. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation!
FAQs
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the cookies.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream and adds an extra tanginess!
Conclusion
These Copycat Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful and indulgent treat that’s not only easy to prepare but also results in cookies that look as good as they taste. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can impress anyone with these sweet and salty delights. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and put your own spin on it. Your feedback and experience will surely make it even sweeter! Happy baking!