From My Grandmother’s Kitchen to Yours ❤️
As Chef Emma, I’ve always loved recreating nostalgic recipes with a modern twist. One of my fondest memories is the sweet scent of my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. Her cookies were rich, soft, and full of heart. Now, inspired by both her baking and the viral success of Crumbl Cookies, I’m sharing with you a homemade Crumbl cookies recipe that’s soft, thick, and incredibly easy to make.
Making your own Crumbl-style cookies at home doesn’t just save money—it also lets you customize your flavors, use quality ingredients, and enjoy warm cookies fresh from the oven. Plus, you skip the long lines and high prices!
According to The Spruce Eats, the best way to keep cookies soft is using brown sugar, proper storage, and slightly underbaking. And if you’re wondering about texture differences, Southern Living breaks down the baking science of soft versus crispy cookies.
Table of Contents
What Are Crumbl Cookies?
Crumbl Cookies became famous for their oversized, bakery-style cookies with creative flavors and luxurious textures. These cookies are thick, buttery, and served warm or chilled with stunning frosting. Every week, the Crumbl menu rotates with new cookie creations, which makes them feel like a treat worth chasing.
But here’s the secret: you can recreate those cookies in your kitchen. With the right ratios and techniques, you can achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture—no special equipment needed.
Ingredients for the Perfect Crumbl Cookie
Here’s what makes a Crumbl cookie recipe stand out:
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness
- Brown sugar: Retains moisture
- Granulated sugar: For balance and structure
- Eggs: Bind and add structure
- Cornstarch: Makes the cookies extra soft
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor
- Baking powder + baking soda: Light and fluffy texture
- Salt: Enhances sweetness
- All-purpose flour: Classic and reliable
- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: Use high-quality for best results
These pantry staples are likely already in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Sift together dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips.
- Scoop large dough balls (about ¼ cup each).
- Chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake cookies for 11–13 minutes until edges are set.
- Let cookies rest on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring.
Use our classic chocolate chip cookie recipe as a base if you’d like to try variations.
Tips for Soft and Thick Crumbl Cookies
Want bakery-style results? Follow these expert tips:
- Chill the dough: Keeps the cookies thick and prevents spreading.
- Don’t overbake: The centers should appear slightly underdone.
- Use a cookie scoop: Ensures even portions.
- Press extra chocolate chips on top before baking.
These techniques guarantee cookies that are crispy on the edges and soft inside.
Flavor Variations to Try
Let your creativity shine with these fun twists:
- Churro Crumbl Cookies: Add cinnamon sugar and cream cheese glaze.
- Cookies & Cream: Mix in crushed Oreos and white chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Replace part of the butter with creamy peanut butter and top with peanut butter chips.
- Frosted Sugar: Swirl on pink buttercream and sprinkles.
Explore more holiday cookie ideas for festive flavor inspiration.
How to Store and Freeze Crumbl Cookies
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–5 days.
- Add a slice of bread to keep them moist.
- Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Reheat cookies for 10 seconds in the microwave to revive the texture.
For quick no-bake options, check out our no-bake cookie recipes.
FAQs About Crumbl Cookies Recipe
Can I make smaller Crumbl cookies?
Yes! Simply use a tablespoon-sized scoop instead of the traditional large one. Reduce the baking time to 7–9 minutes and keep an eye on the edges. They should be slightly golden while the centers remain soft.
What makes Crumbl cookies soft and chewy?
The key is in the moisture-retaining ingredients like brown sugar and real butter, paired with slight underbaking. According to The Spruce Eats, storing cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread also helps keep them fresh and soft.
Can I skip chilling the cookie dough?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. Skipping the chill time will make the dough spread more during baking, resulting in thinner, less bakery-style cookies. For thick and soft Crumbl copycats, chilling is key.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this Crumbl cookies recipe?
Absolutely. Choose a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur) for best results. Keep in mind that textures may vary slightly, so avoid overbaking.
What frosting is best for Crumbl-style cookies?
Get creative! Popular options include:\n\n- Cream cheese frosting\n- Chocolate ganache\n- Flavored buttercream (like strawberry, lemon, or vanilla)\n\nEach adds a delicious and decorative touch that makes your cookies look just like the real Crumbl version.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Kitchen
You deserve a cookie recipe that’s reliable, impressive, and fun to bake. Whether you’re preparing a treat for your family or a bake sale, these cookies make every moment sweeter. Plus, you can batch prep and freeze dough to bake on demand—your future self will thank you.
If you’re looking for more cookie hacks, Allrecipes recently released Betty Crocker’s soft-bake line. However, nothing beats fresh and homemade Crumbl cookies with real ingredients.
Final Thoughts from Chef Emma
This Crumbl cookies recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household. It’s simple enough for kids to help and indulgent enough for special occasions. Whether you’re recreating nostalgic moments or starting new traditions, these cookies deliver.
Remember: baking should feel joyful—not stressful. So turn on your favorite playlist, preheat your oven, and bake a little love into every bite.
Happy baking! 🍪