Few drinks capture the soul of autumn like the Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice. With its steaming hot apple juice, silky cinnamon syrup, and luscious caramel drizzle, it delivers all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of apple pie in a mug. It’s a rich, decaffeinated drink that both children and adults adore, especially when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. Whether you’re gathered around a fire, planning your next book club session, or just craving something warm and indulgent, this guide shows you exactly how to recreate this comforting favorite at home—using both store-bought ingredients and homemade methods for a customizable, budget-friendly experience.
Ingredients Overview
To make your very own Caramel Apple Spice, gather the following cozy essentials:
- Apple juice (100% fruit juice for best flavor; avoid blends with added sugars)
- Cinnamon syrup or Monin Cinnamon Bun syrup (or make it from scratch—recipe below)
- Caramel topping or Torani Caramel Sauce for a velvety finish
- Ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, or McCormick® Apple Pie Spice for aromatic flair
- Heavy cream for the whipped topping
- Tools: Heat-proof mug, slow cooker or crock pot, syrup dispenser, mason jar, squeeze bottle, optional candy thermometer
This recipe is endlessly adaptable to your taste and pantry. Make it in single servings or scale up for parties and holiday gatherings.
Making Starbucks-Style Caramel Apple Spice at Home
The Starbucks original relies on steamed apple juice, flavored cinnamon syrup, cinnamon whipped cream, and a heavy pour of caramel swirl. The beauty of this drink is its simplicity—but don’t be fooled: every sip delivers an intense rich caramel flavor layered with warm spice. Here, you’ll learn how to make it in under 10 minutes with minimal equipment.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of apple juice in a saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
- Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cinnamon syrup (store-bought or homemade).
- Stir gently and pour into a pre-warmed serving cup or heat-proof mug.
- Top with fresh whipped cream (instructions below).
- Drizzle with caramel sauce using a squeeze bottle in a circular motion.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or dusting of cinnamon powder.
This warm, layered drink will instantly wrap you in a blanket of flavor—no espresso machine required.
Creating Homemade Cinnamon Dolce Syrup
Skip the bottled stuff and make your own homemade sweet cinnamon syrup for maximum freshness:
- 1 cup brown sugar (light for mild flavor, dark for bold notes)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to cool, then transfer to a syrup dispenser or mason jar. Refrigerated, this syrup lasts up to 2 weeks and doubles as a sweetener for coffee, tea, or even pancakes.
Crafting Caramel Sauce from Scratch
To achieve a truly gourmet caramel swirl, try making your own caramel sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Melt sugar in a saucepan, stirring continuously until amber in color. Carefully whisk in butter, then slowly pour in cream. Use a candy thermometer for precise heating (target 350°F). Once cooled, pour into a squeeze bottle. Add a pinch of salt to turn it into a salted caramel masterpiece.
Reducing Sugar Content
Watching your sugar or fat intake? You can still enjoy this drink without compromising flavor:
- Use unsweetened apple juice
- Swap in sugar-free cinnamon syrup or make your own with monk fruit sweetener
- Replace heavy cream with steamed milk or Whole Milk
- Omit caramel topping or use half the amount
These changes help reduce Total Carbohydrates, Saturated Fat, and Total Fat without taking away the cozy satisfaction.
Serving Suggestions
This drink isn’t just delicious—it can be beautifully presented:
- Serve in a clear heat-proof mug to showcase foam, syrup, and garnish
- Add a rim of caramel and cinnamon sugar to your glass
- Pair with baked apples, apple pie, or warm cinnamon muffins
- Serve in a crock pot with Aspen Mulling Spices for parties and potlucks
Iced Variation
Want to enjoy this fall favorite in warm weather? Try the iced version:
- Use chilled apple juice and cinnamon syrup, then pour over ice
- Add a splash of steamed milk or cold foam for creaminess
- Drizzle with caramel and garnish as usual
This refreshing take is perfect for late summer or those warm October afternoons.
Topping with Homemade Whipped Cream
Nothing elevates a cozy drink like real whipped cream. Here’s how:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)
Whip until soft peaks form. For cinnamon whipped cream, add 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder. Store extras in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Common Questions
Is There Caffeine in Caramel Apple Spice? Nope! This drink is naturally caffeine-free, making it perfect for kids, nighttime sipping, or pairing with dessert.
Can Apple Cider Be Used Instead? Yes, and many prefer it! Apple cider gives the drink a richer, more rustic texture and works especially well in slow cookers or crock pots.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting the Drink
- Don’t let your apple juice boil—this can dull its flavor
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for added warmth
- Use Natural Flavors and spice blends like El Guapo or Simply Asia to experiment
- Batch-prep syrup and caramel and keep them in the fridge for quick daily use
Storage Advice for Ingredients and the Prepared Drink
- Cinnamon syrup: Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks
- Caramel sauce: Airtight container, refrigerated, lasts 10–14 days
- Whipped cream: Freshest when used within 48 hours
- Prepared drink: Best consumed immediately, but can be gently reheated on the stovetop
Variations to Try
Adding Extra Spices
- Add McCormick® Apple Pie Spice, cardamom, or clove for a bolder flavor
- Mix in unsweetened tea for a spiced apple-tea fusion
- Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert-drink
Dairy-Free Alternatives
- Use almond milk, coconut cream, or soy whip as toppings
- Replace heavy cream with Whole Milk or frothed oat milk for foam
- Choose syrups with no added dairy or Caramel Color agents containing allergens
Exploring More Starbucks Copycat Recipes
If you love the Caramel Apple Spice, here are more homemade hits:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Chai Tea Latte
- Cinnamon Dolce Latte
- Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
- Vanilla Latte
- Even create your own frappuccino recipe using apple juice and caramel over ice
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Discover Other Warm Seasonal Beverages
If you want more cozy drinks beyond the Starbucks classics:
- Hot buttered apple juice with Old Bay and citrus zest
- Spiced tea lattes with honey and Gourmet Garden herbs
- Warm vanilla cider with a splash of Frank’s RedHot Cinnamon for bold spice lovers
The Caramel Apple Spice isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. With every sip, you embrace the season: the crisp air, the scent of baking apples, the soft crackle of fallen leaves. With a few simple ingredients like apple juice, brown sugar, caramel drizzle, and your favorite mug, you can bring this moment of indulgence into your own kitchen anytime—no drive-thru required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely! In fact, many people prefer the deeper, more rustic flavor of apple cider. It adds a richer, slightly tart taste that enhances the cozy, spiced profile of the drink. Just strain out any pulp if you’re topping with whipped cream.
Yes! It contains no coffee or tea, making it a naturally decaffeinated drink perfect for kids, evening indulgence, or anyone avoiding caffeine. It’s a warm alternative to hot chocolate with just as much comfort and sweetness.
It’s easy to make this recipe dairy-free. Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream, almond milk, or oat milk. Use dairy-free whipped cream and check that your caramel sauce doesn’t contain butter or Caramel Color with dairy derivatives. You’ll still get that signature cozy texture and taste.
Yes, it’s great for gatherings. Use a slow cooker or crock pot to gently heat a few quarts of apple juice, stir in the syrup, and let guests serve themselves. Offer toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sticks on the side for a festive DIY bar.
Both syrups use cinnamon, but cinnamon dolce syrup includes brown sugar and vanilla extract, giving it a richer, dessert-like flavor. It’s closer to the Starbucks-style sweet profile. Plain cinnamon syrup may be spicier and less sweet—perfect if you prefer subtle warmth.
