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Deliciously Cozy: Copycat Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider Recipe

There’s something inherently cozy about a warm drink on a chilly day. This delightful copycat Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider is a perfect blend of sweet apple juice, rich caramel, and homemade cinnamon dolce syrup, bringing all the warm memories of fall right to your mug. Sip on this treat during those crisp afternoons or festive gatherings, and you’ll find it’s a hug in a cup!

The best part? This indulgent drink can easily be made at home without racking up a hefty coffee shop bill! So, let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider

Budget-Friendly: Skip the steep prices of coffee shops and make this delightful drink at home. You can indulge in a seasonal favorite without breaking the bank.

Cozy Comfort: This cider is an ideal companion for curling up with a good book on a cool evening or warming up after outdoor adventures in the winter.

Rich, Decadent Taste: The smooth mixture of warm apple juice, buttery caramel, and fragrant cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor that’s sweet, spiced, and entirely satisfying.

Ingredients

Apple Juice: Use 100% pure apple juice for a bright, authentic apple flavor.
Caramel Sauce: Adds the rich, buttery sweetness reminiscent of classic caramel-dipped apples.
Whipped Cream: A must for that perfectly indulgent touch! For best results, use freshly whipped cream instead of the canned variety.

Instructions

Don’t fret about needing special equipment; all you need is a stovetop and a saucepan to create this delicious beverage!

Cinnamon Dolce Syrup

WARM the water, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until combined.
COOK until the mixture reaches a gentle boil and the sugars completely dissolve.
REMOVE from the heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let the syrup cool.

Caramel Apple Cider

HEAT the apple juice in a saucepan over medium heat or heat it in the microwave until it’s warm but not boiling.
STIR in the cinnamon dolce syrup and pour the mixture into your favorite mug (or divide it between two smaller cups).
TOP your drink with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve it warm and enjoy every sip!

Homemade Caramel Sauce

You’ll find that having your own jar of homemade caramel sauce is a game changer. It’s decadently smooth and can enhance everything from breakfast waffles to desserts. But if you’re in a rush, feel free to use store-bought caramel sauce instead!

Here’s a simple recipe for making your own caramel sauce:

1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup salted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions for Caramel Sauce

COMBINE all the ingredients in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and thick, which should take about 10 minutes.

Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!

Tips for the Best Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider

This seasonal delight topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle is perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a quiet evening. To ensure you make the best version each time, here are some handy tips:

Stick to 100% Juice: Starbucks uses pure apple juice, so for the most authentic replica, steer clear of juice blends or concentrates.
Try Cider: For a richer flavor, consider using apple cider instead of plain apple juice—it enhances the autumnal experience!
Use Homemade Whenever Possible: Whip up a batch of your own caramel sauce and freshly whipped cream for a truly elevated taste.
Taste and Adjust: Every palate is different! Start with one tablespoon of the syrup and adjust according to your sweetness preference.
Make Extra Syrup: This syrup keeps well in the fridge for up to 6 weeks, so feel free to make a larger batch for future use.
Don’t Skimp on the Drizzle: Generous caramel drizzles highlight both flavor and presentation—don’t be shy!
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to add extra spices like nutmeg or cloves, or even substitute with a splash of bourbon for a spirited twist!