There’s something nostalgic and undeniably comforting about sipping a chilled Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino on a warm afternoon. Maybe it’s the sweet caramel drizzle swirling around the cup or the rich coffee flavor that somehow feels like dessert. Whatever the reason, if you’re craving that velvety blend without the Starbucks run, this copycat recipe brings the café experience right to your kitchen. It’s fast, frosty, and wildly delicious.
Table of Contents
How to make a Copycat Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino
This recipe blends strong coffee, milk, caramel syrup, and ice into a smooth and sweet drink that’s finished with whipped cream and more caramel on top. The best part? It only takes 5 minutes from start to finish. No drive-thru, no complicated machines, just your blender and a few pantry staples.
Ingredients, instructions and tips
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (chilled)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or dairy-free)
- 3 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 2 cups ice
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall serving glasses
- Spoon
- Straw (optional but fun)
Instructions:
- Brew your coffee ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- In your blender, combine chilled coffee, milk, caramel sauce, sugar, and ice.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and frothy (about 30 to 45 seconds).
- Taste and adjust sweetness or caramel as needed.
- Pour into tall glasses. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with extra caramel.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.
Tips for Success:
- Use frozen coffee ice cubes for a stronger flavor.
- Chill your glasses ahead of time for a colder drink.
- Want more coffee kick? Add a shot of espresso or use espresso powder in place of some of the coffee.
- Blend less for a chunkier texture, more for a smoother finish.
Time: 5 minutes
Calories per serving: 310
What to serve with the dish
The Copycat Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino is perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with a buttery croissant, a slice of banana bread, or even a homemade breakfast sandwich. It also makes a lovely afternoon treat with shortbread cookies or cinnamon toast. If you’re going full coffee shop mode at home, serve it with a savory bite like a mini quiche or a bagel with cream cheese.
Ingredient substitutes
- Coffee Base
Original Ingredient: Strong brewed coffee
Substitutes:- Espresso: For a richer flavor, use 2 shots of espresso.
- Instant Coffee: Dissolve 2 teaspoons in ½ cup hot water. Chill before using.
- Cold Brew: Swap in cold brew concentrate for a smoother taste.
- Milk
Original Ingredient: Whole milk
Substitutes:- Oat milk: Creamy with a subtle sweetness.
- Almond milk: Lighter option with a nutty edge.
- Coconut milk: For a tropical twist.
- Caramel Sauce
Original Ingredient: Store-bought caramel sauce
Substitutes:- Homemade Caramel: Simmer sugar and butter with cream.
- Maple Syrup: Adds depth, but changes the flavor slightly.
- Date Syrup: A refined sugar-free alternative.
- Sugar
Original Ingredient: Granulated sugar
Substitutes:- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and flavor.
- Agave syrup: Lighter taste, same sweetness.
- Stevia: A calorie-free swap (use sparingly).
- Whipped Cream
Original Ingredient: Canned or fresh whipped cream
Substitutes:- Coconut whipped cream: Dairy-free and fluffy.
- Oat-based whipped topping: Great plant-based option.
- Skip it: Just drizzle more caramel and enjoy as is.
- Caramel Drizzle Garnish
Original Ingredient: Caramel sauce on top
Substitutes:- Chocolate drizzle: If you love mocha vibes.
- Sea salt: A pinch on top for salted caramel flavor.
- Crushed toffee: Adds crunch and flair.
Ingredients
1 cup strong brewed coffee (chilled)
1 cup milk (whole milk or dairy-free)
3 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
2 cups ice
Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
Brew your coffee ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
In your blender, combine chilled coffee, milk, caramel sauce, sugar, and ice.
Blend on high speed until smooth and frothy (about 30 to 45 seconds).
Taste and adjust sweetness or caramel as needed.
Pour into tall glasses. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with extra caramel.
Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.
