Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Inspired)

Why Make This Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew at Home?

• Save money compared to coffee shop prices.

• Control your sweetness and ingredients (no artificial syrups!).

• Avoid alcohol and keep it family-friendly.

• Customize foam and caramel levels to taste.

• Impress friends with a café-style beverage made from your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cold Brew Coffee:

• 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans (medium-dark roast recommended)

• 4 cups cold filtered water

For the Salted Caramel Syrup:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/3 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 tsp sea salt

For the Salted Caramel Cold Foam:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter foam)

• 2 tbsp salted caramel syrup (use homemade or store-bought)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

Equipment Needed

• Large jar or pitcher for cold brew steeping

• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

• Small saucepan

• Milk frother or handheld whisk

• Tall glass for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cold Brew Coffee

1. Combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a large jar or pitcher.

2. Stir gently to mix, then cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours. This slow steeping extracts smooth, rich coffee without bitterness.

3. After steeping, strain the coffee through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Discard grounds.

4. Keep cold brew refrigerated until ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Salted Caramel Syrup

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns an amber color (about 5-7 minutes).

2. Quickly add butter and stir until melted and smooth.

3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring; the mixture will bubble vigorously—keep stirring until smooth.

4. Stir in sea salt and remove from heat. Let cool before using.

5. Store leftover syrup in an airtight jar in the fridge up to 2 weeks.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Cold Foam

1. In a small bowl, combine heavy cream, salted caramel syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt.

2. Use a milk frother or handheld whisk to whip the mixture until thick and foamy but not stiff—about 1-2 minutes.

3. Keep cold until ready to top your cold brew.

Step 4: Assemble Your Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.

2. Pour cold brew coffee to fill about 3/4 of the glass.

3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of salted caramel syrup to sweeten; stir gently to combine.

4. Spoon or pour the salted caramel cold foam over the top. Let it cascade down the glass for that dreamy Starbucks look.

5. Optional: drizzle extra salted caramel syrup on top and sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt for garnish.

Tips for the Perfect Homemade Cold Brew

• Use freshly ground coffee for the best flavor.

• Choose a medium to dark roast coffee to mimic Starbucks’ bold cold brew profile.

• Steep for at least 12 hours but no more than 24 hours to avoid over-extraction.

• Adjust syrup quantity to your sweetness preference—start small!

• Chill your glass beforehand for an extra-refreshing experience.

Variations to Customize Your Drink

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or oat milk foam instead of heavy cream.

• Mocha Twist: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to your cold foam mixture.

• Extra Espresso: Add a shot of espresso for a stronger caffeine kick.

• Spiced Caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel syrup.

Healthier Options

• Use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar in your caramel syrup.

• Choose half-and-half or oat milk for lighter foam.

• Skip the added syrup for a less sweet version—cold brew is delicious on its own!

FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: Can I use store-bought cold brew instead of making my own?

A: Yes! Store-bought cold brew works perfectly—just skip the steeping step and proceed with assembly.

Q: How long does homemade cold brew last?

A: Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I make the salted caramel syrup in advance?

A: Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Q: What if I don’t have a milk frother?

A: Whisk vigorously by hand or use a blender to create cold foam.

Q: Is this drink suitable for kids?

A: It contains caffeine from cold brew coffee, so it’s better for teens and adults. For kids, try the salted caramel cold foam on its own over ice milk or cream!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a buttery almond croissant or pumpkin muffin for a delightful fall snack.

• Serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer for added aroma and presentation.

• Perfect for brunch parties or a luxurious afternoon treat.

Why This Recipe Is Better Than Starbucks

• Customizable sweetness and foam texture to suit your taste buds.

• No artificial additives or preservatives.

• Cost-effective for multiple servings at home.

• Freshly made ingredients ensure better flavor and quality.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the rich, velvety, and sweet flavors of a Starbucks-inspired Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew on a warm day or any time you want to feel a little fancy. With this easy homemade recipe, you get to control every ingredient—from the bold cold brew base to the luscious salted caramel syrup and the dreamy cold foam topping. No lines, no preservatives, just a perfectly indulgent drink you can sip anytime.

So grab your coffee beans, butter, and cream, and whip up this café classic in your own kitchen. Your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you!