I’ll never forget the first time I walked into a Starbucks. I was completely lost and couldn’t understand the menu at all. I had a co-worker with me who had been there before and tried to point me in the direction of a drink I might like. As soon as I saw the caramel frappuccino, I knew that was probably my safest bet. Fast forward to today, probably 20 years later and I’m making my version of the Starbucks caramel frappuccino recipe at home.
Since our Starbucks Pink Drink copycat is so popular, I polled my Instagram followers last month to see which other Starbucks recipe they wished they could make at home. I wasn’t surprised to find a 75% poll result for the Starbucks caramel frappuccino. So I began experimenting in my kitchen and promised to deliver the perfect copycat recipe.
According to the Starbucks website, the caramel frappuccino is described as caramel syrup that meets coffee, milk, and ice for a rendezvous in the blender, while whipped cream and buttery caramel sauce layer the love on top. So let’s see if we were able to recreate it at home.
Before I share our Starbucks caramel frappuccino copycat recipe, let me share a few tips about the ingredients.
What is the xanthan gum for?
If you’ve tried to make a Starbucks frappuccino at home, you may have found that it separates and isn’t nearly as smooth and creamy as it is when you purchase one from a Starbucks. So, you can purchase the Starbucks Frappuccino Creme Syrup, which can be pricy – or you can use simple syrup and xanthan gum instead.
Can I make my own simple syrup?
Yes, you can! Simple syrup is just sugar and water, so if you want to make your own, that is definitely the cheaper option. You can find a number of recipes online. If you don’t have time or are looking for a more convenient option, I found that this store-bought simple syrup is perfect.
Do I have to use Starbucks coffee?
No, of course, you don’t HAVE TO use Starbucks coffee, but I find that it helps to match the flavor when you are trying to make a Starbucks copycat recipe. I really love the Starbucks instant packets as they are the perfect size for this recipe and are a convenient option. You can choose any of the Instant Via coffee packets. If you want to use something else, make sure it’s instant coffee and use approximately 2- 2 1/2 tablespoons.
What type of milk is best?
You can use your preferred milk for this recipe. I personally like to use extra creamy almond milk. It’s a great non-dairy option and makes the frappuccino much creamier.
What if my mixture is too thick or too thin?
Since everyone’s ice cubes are different, you’ll find that you may need to play around with the amount of ice you need to use. If your Starbucks caramel frappuccino is too thick, just add a little bit more milk. If it’s too runny, just add a bit more ice.
Have any additional questions I haven’t answered? Make sure to leave those in the comments below!
I’ve tried to show the steps in the photos above for you, to make it a bit easier to make your Starbucks caramel frappuccino.
Step 1: Whisk together xanthan gum and simple syrup.
Step 2: Add your mixture to the blender.
Step 3: Add one packet of coffee.
Step 4: Add milk or non-dairy substitute, caramel syrup, and sugar.
Step 5: Add ice.
Step 6: Blend until smooth.
Step 7: Squeeze caramel sauce into the bottom and sides of your cup.
Step 8: Fill the cup with the caramel frappuccino.
Step 9: Top with whipped cream.
Step 10: Squeeze caramel sauce on top and enjoy!
Starbucks caramel frappuccino copycat
PrintStarbucks Caramel Frappuccino Copycat
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 20oz 1x
Description
Now you can make your favorite Starbucks Frappuccino at home! Caramel syrup meets coffee, milk, and ice for a rendezvous in the blender, while whipped cream and buttery caramel sauce layer the love on top.
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp simple syrup
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 packet Starbucks instant coffee
- 1 cup milk or non-dairy option
- 5 pumps (approx 2 Tbsp) caramel syrup
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cup ice
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Whisk together xanthan gum and simple syrup.
- Add your mixture to the blender.
- Add one packet of coffee.
- Add milk or non-dairy substitute, caramel syrup, and sugar.
- Add ice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Squeeze caramel sauce into the bottom and sides of your cup.
- Fill the cup with the caramel frappuccino.
- Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce.
- Cook Time: 5 min
Love this Copycat Recipe?
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If you try our version of the Starbucks caramel frappuccino copycat recipe, we’d love to hear your thoughts. If you take a picture or share it on social media, don’t forget to tag us! Don’t forget to check out all of our family-friendly recipes! Don’t forget to try our other very popular copycat recipes as well!
I just made this today and it’s to Die for! My niece got me hooked on the other guys frappes but I could only have them now and then. Now I can make them at home everday š¤« if I choose š and their even betterā£ļø I’m going to pass this gold mine on to her now.