There’s something truly comforting about enjoying a warm cup of coffee, especially when it’s a homemade version of those delightful Starbucks caramel drinks. I love how easy it is to whip up this delicious treat in my own kitchen, and it feels so satisfying to have that rich, sweet caramel flavor right at my fingertips. Whether it’s a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, making your own caramel coffee is not only a wonderful way to enjoy a favorite beverage but also a chance to customize it just the way you like. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought versions! Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and creaminess to suit your taste perfectly. So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s dive into this sweet and silky homemade Starbucks caramel drink experience together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own delightful homemade version of Starbucks caramel drinks. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making it a breeze to gather everything you’ll need. Let’s get started!
- 2 cups of brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup of milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup of caramel sauce
- Whipped cream (optional, but oh-so-delicious!)
- Ice cubes (if you prefer an iced drink)
Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your taste or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking to cut down on sugar, you can use a sugar-free caramel sauce. And if you’re not a fan of dairy, almond or oat milk work wonderfully! It’s all about making this drink your own.
How to Prepare Starbucks Caramel Drinks
Making your own homemade Starbucks caramel drinks is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be sipping on your delicious creation in no time. Let’s get started!
- Brew your coffee: Start by brewing 2 cups of your favorite coffee. I love using a medium roast for that perfect balance of flavor, but feel free to use whatever you enjoy most!
- Heat the milk: While your coffee is brewing, pour 1/2 cup of milk (or almond milk, if you’re going dairy-free) into a small saucepan. Heat it over low heat. You only need to warm it up, not boil it—about 2-3 minutes should do the trick. If you prefer, you can use a microwave-safe container and heat it in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds. Just keep an eye on it to prevent any splatters!
- Add the caramel: Once your milk is warm, stir in 1/4 cup of caramel sauce. Mix it well until it’s fully combined, and you have a lovely caramel milk mixture. The aroma at this point is heavenly!
- If you like iced drinks: If you’re in the mood for an iced version, grab a tall glass and fill it with ice cubes. This way, your drink will be refreshing and cool.
- Combine your ingredients: Pour the brewed coffee into your glass or favorite mug. Then, add your warm caramel milk mixture right on top. Watch as it swirls together beautifully!
- Top it off: For an extra indulgent touch, add some whipped cream on top. And don’t forget to drizzle a little more caramel sauce over the whipped cream. It’s the cherry on top of your delicious drink!
And there you have it! A delightful homemade Starbucks caramel drink, ready to enjoy. It’s that simple! Take a moment to appreciate the cozy aroma before diving in. You’ve earned it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this homemade Starbucks caramel drink recipe! Let me share some of my favorites:
- Quick preparation: You can whip up this delightful drink in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or a sweet afternoon treat!
- Customizable to dietary needs: Whether you prefer almond milk, oat milk, or need a sugar-free option, this recipe adapts to fit your lifestyle.
- Delicious homemade flavor: The rich, sweet taste of caramel in your own kitchen is something you simply can’t replicate with store-bought drinks.
- Saves money compared to store-bought drinks: With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a café-quality drink at a fraction of the cost.
- Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields two servings, making it easy to enjoy with a friend or loved one. Sharing is caring, after all!
- Feel-good factor: There’s something so satisfying about making your own beverages at home. It’s a little moment of joy in your day!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked! It’s all about comfort and flavor, and this drink delivers on both fronts.
Tips for Success
To make sure your homemade Starbucks caramel drinks turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer your drink a bit sweeter, don’t hesitate to add more caramel sauce. Start with an extra tablespoon, taste it, and see if it hits the spot! You can always add more, but it’s tough to take it out once it’s in.
- Choosing the right milk: Experiment with different types of milk to find your favorite! I personally love using oat milk for its creamy texture, but almond milk or even coconut milk can add a unique flavor. Just remember, if you’re going dairy-free, check for any added sugars in your milk alternatives.
- Making it iced: For a refreshing iced drink, make sure your coffee is brewed strong enough to hold up against the ice. You can even brew a double shot if you want that extra kick! Pour the hot coffee over ice, then add the caramel milk mixture. The coffee will chill quickly, and you’ll have a delicious iced treat!
- Mixing it up: Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to your caramel milk for a delightful twist. It’s all about making this drink your own!
- Safety first: When heating your milk, keep the heat low and stir occasionally to prevent it from scorching. And if using the microwave, be cautious when removing the container—it can be hot!
These little tips can make a big difference in your drink-making experience. Enjoy the process, and remember, practice makes perfect!
Variations of Starbucks Caramel Drinks
If you’re like me, you love to experiment in the kitchen! This recipe for homemade Starbucks caramel drinks is super adaptable, and there are so many fun ways to change it up. Here are some delightful variations to try:
- Vanilla Caramel: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the caramel milk mixture for a warm, comforting flavor. Just a teaspoon will do wonders!
- Hazelnut Delight: For a nutty twist, stir in some hazelnut syrup or a spoonful of hazelnut spread into your warm milk. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.
- Coconut Caramel: Swap out the milk for coconut milk to give your drink a tropical flair. The creaminess of coconut milk combined with caramel is simply divine!
- Spiced Caramel: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel milk for a cozy autumn vibe. It’s like a warm hug in a cup!
- Mocha Caramel: Want to indulge even more? Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or some chocolate syrup with the caramel. It transforms your drink into a rich mocha caramel delight!
- Salted Caramel: If you love that sweet and salty combo, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of your whipped cream and caramel drizzle. It elevates the flavor to a whole new level!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect drink. Each variation offers something unique, and it’s all about what you enjoy most. So have fun with it, and get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful twists on a classic!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made your delicious homemade Starbucks caramel drinks, you might find yourself with some leftovers. No worries! Here’s how to store and reheat them properly so you can enjoy that comforting flavor all over again.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover caramel drink, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good shake or stir before reheating to mix everything back together!
Reheating Your Drink: When you’re ready to enjoy your caramel drink again, pour the desired amount into a small saucepan and heat it gently over low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through—this usually takes about 5 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave! Just pour it into a microwave-safe mug and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s nice and warm.
Keeping the Caramel Sauce Fresh: If you have extra caramel sauce leftover, store it in a separate airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about a week. When you’re ready to use it again, simply warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to drizzle. It’s a fantastic way to add that sweet touch back to your drink!
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade Starbucks caramel drinks whenever the craving strikes. So go ahead and indulge without worry—comfort is just a sip away!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying your homemade Starbucks caramel drinks, it’s nice to know a bit about the nutrition behind this delightful treat. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, such as the type of milk or caramel sauce. If you make substitutions or adjustments, keep in mind that the nutritional information may change. It’s all about enjoying your drink while being mindful of your preferences and dietary needs. Now, isn’t that comforting to know?
FAQ Section
Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! If you prefer a decaf option, go right ahead and use decaffeinated coffee. You’ll still get that delightful caramel flavor without the caffeine buzz. It’s perfect for an evening treat!
What can I substitute for caramel sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives to caramel sauce, you can try using a homemade date syrup or even maple syrup for a different take. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it can be just as delicious!
How can I make this sugar-free?
To make your homemade Starbucks caramel drink sugar-free, look for sugar-free caramel sauce options available in stores. You can also sweeten your drink with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Just remember to adjust the amount according to your taste!
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coffee and caramel milk mixture ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to enjoy your drink. It’s a great way to save time during busy mornings!
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using almond milk or any other plant-based milk and opting for a dairy-free caramel sauce. You’ll still get that comforting caramel flavor without any animal products!

Homemade Starbucks Caramel Drinks: 5 Comforting Recipes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful homemade version of Starbucks caramel drinks to enjoy at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup of milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup of caramel sauce
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Ice cubes (if iced drink is preferred)
Instructions
- Brew your favorite coffee.
- Heat the milk in a small saucepan over low heat, or use a microwave-safe container.
- Stir in the caramel sauce until well combined.
- If you prefer an iced drink, fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the brewed coffee into the glass or mug.
- Add the caramel milk mixture to the coffee.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer.
- Try using oat milk for a creamier texture.
- Adjust the amount of caramel to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: starbucks caramel drinks, homemade caramel coffee, easy caramel coffee recipe