Introduction
Baking can be both an art and a science, especially when recreating popular desserts. One such treat that has stolen the hearts of many is the Crumbl Raspberry Cheesecake Cookie. These cookies capture the flavors of a classic cheesecake mixed with the delightful sweetness of raspberries, all in cookie form. The fusion of textures and tastes makes them a standout dessert, perfect for any occasion.
In this recipe, you'll find a straightforward approach to crafting these delectable cookies from scratch. With a graham cracker base, a rich cheesecake topping, and a raspberry drizzle, each bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix, 15.25 ounces
The vanilla cake mix serves as the base for these cookies, providing sweetness and moisture. It simplifies the baking process, allowing for a quick assembly without compromising taste. - ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
Brown sugar adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor to the cookies, enhancing their sweetness while contributing to a chewy texture. - 1 ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
Graham cracker crumbs create a subtle crunch and deliver that classic 'cheesecake' flavor profile, providing a stable and flavorful foundation for the cookies. - ½ cup butter, melted
Melted butter adds richness and moisture, helping to bind the ingredients together while giving the cookies a tender texture. - 2 large eggs
Eggs provide structure and stability to the cookies. They help incorporate air during mixing, contributing to a light and fluffy end product. - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
Softened cream cheese is critical for achieving the rich and creamy frosting that mimics traditional cheesecake, ensuring a luxurious mouthfeel. - 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
Marshmallow fluff adds sweetness and a light, airy texture to the frosting, balancing the richness of the cream cheese and enhancing the overall flavor. - 2 cups powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting while ensuring a smooth consistency, making it easy to pipe onto the cookies. - ⅓-½ cup raspberry jam
Raspberry jam provides that signature fruity burst, allowing you to drizzle a rich and vibrant topping that complements the cheesecake flavor perfectly.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating your oven is crucial for achieving an even bake. This process allows the cookies to rise properly and develop a golden edge. Skipping this step can result in dense cookies that don't hold their shape as they bake.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, brown sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Whisk to combine.
This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed, promoting a uniform texture throughout the cookies. Whisking helps break up any lumps in the cake mix and brown sugar, ensuring consistent sweetness in every bite.
Step 3: Add the melted butter and eggs to the dry mix. Mix until a thick dough forms.
Incorporating butter and eggs introduces moisture and fat to the cookie dough, which is essential for creating a chewy texture. Mix until the dough pulls together, but avoid overmixing, which can lead to tougher cookies.
Step 4: Use a ¼ cup measuring cup to scoop out the dough. Form each portion into a large disc and place onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them well.
Shaping the dough into discs ensures the cookies will spread evenly while baking, resulting in a desirable appearance. Even spacing allows for optimal air circulation, preventing the cookies from merging.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool on the baking sheet.
The optimal baking time is crucial to achieving cookies that are perfectly chewy in the center and just set around the edges. Letting them cool on the baking sheet helps them maintain their shape before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and marshmallow fluff with a hand mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar.
Mixing these ingredients thoroughly creates a creamy frosting that mimics classic cheesecake filling. Gradually adding powdered sugar prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture that's easy to pipe.
Step 7: Transfer frosting to a piping bag. Pipe a generous layer of frosting on top of each cooled cookie, starting from the outside and working inwards.
Piping from the outside encourages a beautiful swirl while maintaining a neat presentation. A generous amount of frosting enhances the cheesecake flavor and adds a rich creaminess that balances the cookie.
Step 8: Drizzle raspberry jam over the frosted cookies. Serve and enjoy!
The finishing touch of raspberry jam not only adds a pop of color but also an exciting tangy contrast to the sweetness of the frosting. This small detail elevates the overall flavor profile, making the cookies irresistibly delicious.
Graham Cracker Cookie Base: A Nod to Tradition
The graham cracker cookie base is an homage to the classic cheesecake crust that many have come to love. By incorporating graham cracker crumbs into the dough, we replicate that familiar texture and flavor, drawing from the essence of traditional cheesecakes. This foundation not only provides stability to the cookie but also enriches every bite with a delightful crunch.
Luxurious Cheesecake Frosting
The creamy frosting is where the magic happens, transforming a simple cookie into a decadent dessert. Combining cream cheese with marshmallow fluff creates a smooth, lush frosting that echoes the texture of rich cheesecake. This frosting doesn't just taste amazing—it also adds visual appeal, making each cookie look irresistibly tempting.
The Fruity Finish with Raspberry Jam
Raspberry jam is the cherry on top, literally and figuratively. This vibrant drizzle not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces bright acidity that cuts through the rich frosting. The marriage of sweet and tart flavors in each bite mimics the experience of enjoying a raspberry cheesecake, leaving your taste buds requesting more.
FAQs
What can I use if I don't have marshmallow fluff?
If marshmallow fluff is unavailable, you can substitute it with whipped topping or a mixture of cream cheese with a bit more sugar to achieve a sweet and creamy frosting.
What if my dough is too thick?
If the cookie dough feels too thick and isn’t spreading as expected, you can add a tiny bit of milk or melted butter to loosen it up, ensuring a better cookie texture after baking.
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry jam?
While fresh raspberries can be used as a topping, they won't provide the same sweetness or consistency as jam. If you prefer fresh, consider mashing them with a little sugar for the best results.
Is it necessary to pipe the frosting, or can I spread it?
Piping the frosting creates a more professional appearance, but if you prefer, you can spread it with a knife. Just ensure the frosting is smooth for an appealing finish.
What type of vanilla cake mix works best?
Any standard vanilla cake mix will work well; however, for more flavor depth, choose a brand with real vanilla extract in the ingredient list.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting?
Yes, if you find the frosting too sweet, reduce the amount of powdered sugar gradually until it reaches your desired sweetness level, but maintain the cream cheese for structure.
Conclusion
Creating Copycat Crumbl Raspberry Cheesecake Cookies at home is a delightful experience that results in a treat irresistible to both family and friends. The combination of graham cracker cookies with cream cheese frosting and raspberry drizzle brings together a beloved dessert in a fun, cookie format.
With a little bit of care in following the recipe and personal touches along the way, you can craft these delicious cookies to enjoy anytime. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or unwinding with a sweet treat, these cookies will surely bring joy and satisfaction.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.