Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice

Last October, while rushing through a busy Starbucks during peak fall season, I overheard a customer ordering something called Caramel Apple Spice. Intrigued by the name and the heavenly aroma wafting from her cup, I decided to try one myself. That first sip transported me to a cozy autumn evening, with the perfect balance of warm, spiced apple, creamy sweetness, and the nostalgic comfort of childhood apple cider.

Unlike traditional mulled cider, this sophisticated version had modern touches that made it feel both familiar and special. After enjoying it several times that season, I knew I had to recreate this soul-warming drink at home for those chilly evenings when only the coziest beverage will do.

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What Makes this Copycat Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice Recipe so Good

This warm drink elevates simple apple juice into a sophisticated coffeehouse beverage through the perfect balance of warming cinnamon syrup and rich caramel sauce. Unlike traditional mulled cider that can taste heavy or overly spiced, this version uses commercial cinnamon syrup for consistent flavor and sweetness. The whipped cream adds luxurious texture while the caramel sauce provides depth and visual appeal. Being caffeine-free makes it perfect for any time of day, and the simple preparation means you can enjoy this comfort drink whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients for this Hot Apple Cider

Here is what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Apple juice – Use a brand that is 100 percent unsweetened apple juice. For a more robust fruit flavor, you can replace the apple juice with apple cider.
• Cinnamon syrup – Monin, Amoretti, and Torani are reputable brands worth trying.
• Whipped cream – Make your own or use your favorite premade brand.
• Caramel sauce – Be sure to use a caramel sauce, not a syrup or a coating. Ghirardelli and Hollander produce caramel sauces specifically designed for coffee drinks.

How to Make Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice

This recipe is straightforward to make:

1. Heat the apple juice in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. You can heat the apple juice in the microwave for 70 seconds on high if you prefer. Cover with a paper towel to prevent any splatter.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cinnamon syrup.
3. Pour the hot apple juice into a large mug.
4. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
5. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the whipped cream.

If you want to be a bit fancy, go ahead and sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Recipe Variations

Want to cool down? Try an Iced Caramel Apple Spice.

Mix cold apple juice with the cinnamon syrup, add ice, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and drizzle with caramel sauce. Serve with a straw.

It is easy to turn this recipe into an Apple Pie Milkshake:

1. Pour a cup of apple juice or cider and a tablespoon of cinnamon syrup into a blender.
2. Add three scoops of softened vanilla ice cream.
3. Cover and blend on the milkshake or smoothie setting until smooth.
4. Drizzle caramel syrup down the inside of a large serving glass.
5. Pour in the Apple Pie Milkshake.
6. Top with whipped cream and crumbled butter cookies or graham crackers.

For adults looking for a little more kick, spike the drink with an ounce of brandy or rum is a good start. Try this version as an after-dinner drink at your next Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Immediate Serving: Best enjoyed immediately while hot for optimal flavor and temperature
• Party Preparation: Heat large batch and keep warm in thermal carafe for up to 2 hours
• Reheating Method: Reheat gently over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between
• Component Storage: Store leftover heated apple mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

What Goes Well with Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice?

While Caramel Apple Spice is perfect on its own, any fall-inspired sweet snack is a wonderful accompaniment. Homemade Ginger Snaps and Pumpkin Muffins with Cake Mix are outstanding options.

More Starbucks Copycat Recipes

• London Fog Latte
• Starbucks Banana Bread
• Starbucks Brown Sugar Oatmilk
• Starbucks Caramel Macchiato
• Starbucks Egg White Bites
• Starbucks Flat White
• Starbucks Peppermint Mocha
• Starbucks Pink Drink
• Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha

Favorite Apple Recipes

• Caramel Apple Martini
• Apple Spice Cake
• Fried Apple Pie

Check out more of my easy drink recipes and the best Starbucks recipes here on CopyKat!