Name: Homemade Crumbl Cookies: Soft, Chewy Bliss with Frosting
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 132 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark brown sugar for flavor difference); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1 large Egg; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Or almond extract for variation); 2 cups Plain Flour (Precise measurement is key); 1 cup Cornflour (Or cornstarch); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it’s fresh); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Vital for texture); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Consider sea salt or kosher salt); 1/2 cup Butter (Softened, unsalted); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Can use Neufchâtel for lower fat); 3 cups Icing Sugar (No substitutions); 2 teaspoons Food Coloring (Optional for customization)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen is nothing short of magical as I prepare these Soft and Chewy Homemade Crumbl Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Let me tell you, there’s nothing like pulling freshly baked cookies from the oven, their golden edges beckoning you for a taste. What makes this recipe truly special is not just the dreamy texture, which is delightfully soft and chewy, but also the fact that you can customize the luscious cream cheese frosting to your heart’s content! It’s a perfect solution for those moments when you crave a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies promise to be a crowd-pleaser and an effortless addition to any occasion. Ready to dive into a delightful baking adventure? Let’s get started!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Deliciously Soft & Chewy: The unique texture of these homemade Crumbl cookies, with their soft centers and slightly crispy edges, will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving more.
Customizable Frosting: With a simple cream cheese frosting, you’re free to get creative! Add your favorite flavors or colors to make each batch uniquely yours.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a cozy evening at home, these cookies fit right in and are loved by all.
Easy to Make: No need to be a baking expert! This recipe guides you through every step, ensuring even novice bakers can shine.
Store & Share: These cookies can be easily stored for later or shared with friends, just like my delightful Pumpkin Smores Cookies or classic Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy a sweet treat whenever you want!

Homemade Crumbl Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Brown Sugar – Adds depth and moisture; you can use light or dark brown sugar for a slight flavor difference.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies without altering their texture; no substitutions needed here.
Unsalted Butter (Melted) – Provides richness and ensures the cookies are soft; using unsalted allows for better control over salt levels.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and gives that delightful chewiness; no substitutions recommended.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
Plain Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; precise measurement is key for the best results with no substitutions.
Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Lightens the texture and boosts chewiness; no substitutions.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Baking Powder – Vital for the proper texture of cookies; no substitutes will work.
Salt – Balances sweetness; consider using sea salt or kosher salt as alternatives.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Butter (Softened) – Key for a creamy frosting; stick to unsalted for the best flavor balance.
Cream Cheese – Gives the frosting a tangy flavor and smooth consistency; you can use Neufchâtel for a lower-fat option.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps it set; refrain from substitutions to maintain the right consistency.
Food Coloring – Optional for customizing your frosting; natural colors can be used or you can skip this step altogether.

With these essential ingredients ready, you’re well on your way to creating the most delicious Homemade Crumbl Cookies with cream cheese frosting!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Crumbl Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. This will ensure the Homemade Crumbl Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. A well-prepared baking sheet also allows for easy removal post-baking, so you can focus on the fun part—decorating!

Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes of vigorous whisking. The creamy consistency will ensure your cookies are rich and flavorful, setting the perfect foundation for your dough.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack a large egg into the bowl and pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully combined, achieving a homogenous mixture. The egg is crucial for binding the dough, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor, giving your Homemade Crumbl Cookies their delightful aroma.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, cornflour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Once sifted, gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to overmix. The aim is to have a slightly sticky dough that will create soft and chewy cookies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into 50g balls and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between each ball to allow for spreading. This step is essential for achieving those beautifully shaped Homemade Crumbl Cookies with crisp edges and soft centers.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the cookie dough balls for about 1 hour. This chilling step is vital as it helps maintain the shape of the cookies during baking, resulting in thicker, perfectly-sized treats that are soft and chewy on the inside.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
After chilling, bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 minutes. Watch closely for when the edges turn lightly golden, while the centers remain soft and puffy. This balance is key to achieving the signature texture of the Homemade Crumbl Cookies.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. It’s important to let them cool completely, as the cookies continue to bake slightly on the hot tray, ensuring they set perfectly.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, whisk together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in the icing sugar and mix until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract and optional food coloring to personalize your frosting for the Homemade Crumbl Cookies.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies are fully cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting on top. Feel free to add sprinkles or other fun toppings for an extra personalized touch. Your delicious Homemade Crumbl Cookies are now beautifully dressed and ready to be enjoyed!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Homemade Crumbl Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time by rolling the dough into balls and refrigerating them. This chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking for that perfect soft center and chewy texture. If you prefer, the dough balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For the frosting, consider preparing it ahead and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick whisk to bring it back to life before frosting the cookies. This way, you can enjoy fresh, homemade cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Homemade Crumbl Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulging in warm, soft cookies is a true comfort, and pairing them with delightful sides can elevate your dessert experience even further.

Fresh Milk: This classic pairing balances sweet flavors and creates a nostalgic treat reminiscent of childhood comfort. The cooling milk complements the rich cream cheese frosting perfectly.
Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee adds a lovely, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing their flavors. The warmth of the drink brings out the cookies’ delightful aroma.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm cookie creates a delightful melty experience. The creaminess of the ice cream works beautifully with the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits adds a light, zesty touch to your dessert table. The natural sweetness and acidity of the fruits can balance the richness of the cookies, making it a well-rounded experience.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzled over the cookies or served on the side for dipping, chocolate sauce takes this treat to the next level. The decadent chocolate enhances the cream cheese frosting and makes for an indulgent dessert.
Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade provides a bright, citrusy contrast that cuts through the sweetness. The refreshing taste is a wonderful complement to the rich flavors of the cookies.

Enjoy exploring these pairs, and you might just find a new favorite way to savor your Homemade Crumbl Cookies!

Expert Tips for Homemade Crumbl Cookies

Chill Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least one hour. This step prevents excessive spreading and maintains that desired soft, chewy texture.

Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurement of ingredients. Accurate measuring is key to achieving the perfect soft and chewy cookies every time.

Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we definitely want to avoid.

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking soda and baking powder for the best rise. Stale leavening agents will affect the cookies’ texture negatively.

Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the baking time! Every oven is different, so check for lightly golden edges while the centers remain soft for optimal results.

Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or add-ins. Customization makes your Homemade Crumbl Cookies uniquely yours and more enjoyable!

Homemade Crumbl Cookies Variations

Feel inspired to put your own spin on these delightful cookies and frosting!

Almond Flavor: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a deliciously nutty twist that tantalizes the taste buds.
Chocolate Chip Boost: Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough for gooey pockets of chocolate that enhance each bite. This classic addition adds a rich, decadent feel, perfect for chocolate lovers!
Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the cookie dough for a crunchy contrast to the soft texture.
Lemon Frosting: Brighten your cream cheese frosting by adding fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a refreshing citrus note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a hint of warmth, giving the cookies a cozy, aromatic quality.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Blend creamy peanut butter into the frosting for a nutty, luscious topping that pairs wonderfully with the vanilla base. It adds a delightful creaminess and depth of flavor!
Colorful Fun: Use vibrant food colors in your frosting to match themes for parties or holidays—celebration cookies have never been more inviting!
Frosting Fusion: Mix up your frosting flavors by creating a chocolate cream cheese frosting alongside the classic version. You can layer them for a beautiful effect when icing the cookies.

With these variations in mind, you’re not just baking; you’re creating a unique cookie experience! Whether you’re making them for a gathering or a cozy night in, these ideas ensure that each batch is special—like my decadent Chocolate Chip Cookies or seasonal Pumpkin Smores Cookies. Enjoy your delicious adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Crumbl Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and chewiness.

Fridge: Frosted cookies can be refrigerated for up to 7 days. Keep them in a sealed container to prevent the flavors from mingling.

Freezer: To freeze dough, wrap individual cookie balls in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months and baked directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to baking time.

Reheating: For best results, reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their soft, chewy goodness before enjoying!

Homemade Crumbl Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! Selecting quality ingredients is crucial for making the best Homemade Crumbl Cookies. Use fresh baking soda and baking powder to ensure the cookies rise perfectly. When it comes to butter, I recommend using unsalted for better flavor control. Always choose ripe, flavorful eggs for a rich taste, and opt for light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference for sweetness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
I often store my cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them nice and soft. If you’ve frosted your cookies, it’s best to refrigerate them in a sealed container, where they will stay fresh for up to 7 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as the cream cheese frosting tastes best when it’s a little softer!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! To freeze the dough for your Homemade Crumbl Cookies, roll individual cookie balls, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. This way, they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out of the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to have cookies on demand!

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very! If you find that your cookies spread excessively, it might be due to not chilling the dough long enough. Make sure to refrigerate your rolled cookie balls for at least an hour before baking. Additionally, ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. Baking them too close together can cause spreading, so space them out on the baking tray for evenly baked cookies.

Are these cookies safe for pets and people with allergies?
When making Homemade Crumbl Cookies, be cautious! The main ingredients like butter and sugar are generally safe, but the cookies contain components like cream cheese and icing sugar which may not be suitable for pets. If anyone in your household has allergies, be sure to check the labels of your ingredients. For nut allergies, it’s best to stick to this basic recipe and avoid any added nuts or alternatives that may trigger reactions.