Caramel Apple Cider November 13
Once you’ve made some Spiced Apple Cider, or if you simply happen to have a bottle of storebought cider in the back of the fridge, it is a snap to make one of my favorite wintertime drinks, Caramel Apple Cider. I was first turned onto this drink on a visit to Starbucks, where it is generally available year-round but is often featured on the menu boards during the winter. The drink seems to retain heat much better than just about anything else, so not only does it taste great, but it keeps your hands warm when it is snowy outside!
The Starbucks version of this drink is made by steaming apple cider until it is very hot, then adding caramel and whipped cream. I start mine with homemade cider and heat it up in a saucepan if I am going to be serving a crowd and in a mug in the microwave if I’m only serving myself. Once the cider is steaming hot, stir in about 1 1/2 tbsp caramel sauce, then add whipped cream and another drizzle of caramel. Use any kind of caramel for this drink, whether it’s homemade sauce or your favorite topping brand - I’ve even melted solid caramels into it in a pinch and it turned out very well. I often add a very small pinch of salt to the caramel on top for that salted caramel effect, too.
The sweetness of the caramel highlights the sweetness of the apples in the cider, while the whipped cream on top is a nice, cool contrast to the steamy beverage below. And the caramel on top? Why, that’s just an excuse to eat even more caramel. As though I needed one.
Caramel Apple Cider
12-oz plain or Spiced Apple Cider
1 1/2 tbsp caramel sauce
whipped cream, for topping
additional caramel sauce, for topping
small pinch salt (optional)
Heat cider on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is steaming. Pour into a large mug. Stir in caramel sauce.
Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream and a drizzle of additional caramel sauce. If desired, add a small pinch of salt to the caramel on top.
Serves 1.
Nutmeg Nanny Nov 13
Oh my gosh this looks amazing! This is prefect for Fall!!!
Shannon Nov 13
My fav starbucks drink! My friend that works there told me how to make it but I never have caramel or whipped cream. One of these days!
Eva Nov 13
I love the caramel apple cider from Starbucks. I worked there for a short period of time so I thought I might add that cinnamon syrup is also added to this drink. I will never forget with a customer pointed out that I had forgot to add this, it’s the only reason I am bringing it up. I think I might have to get one of these tomorrow. Mmmmm. Love your site and your recipes. I’m asking for your cookbook for my birthday. Can’t wait!
confectionate Nov 14
This sounds sooo good!
Trish Nov 14
Oh this is such a nice little recipe here! Very satisfying! Love the picture too!
Whistling Kettle Nov 14
Man, this sounds incredible. I’m a little worried that it might end up being TOO sweet when you add the caramel, but it certainly looks delicious.
I will have to give this a try, thanks for the recommendation!
Alexandra Nov 14
This looks fabulous. The Starbucks version, however, is in fact not even made with caramel. I worked at Starbucks for many years and the drink is made by steaming apple juice and adding cinnamon syrup to the apple juice. The drink is then topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce, but there is actually no caramel in the drink itself. Caramel Apple Cider is one of my all time favourite drinks as well.
Tiffany Nov 14
Nice website, I was just looking around on various websites and I always like to leave a positive message.
Italian Leather Jackets Nov 15
Thanks!
I am looking for something sweet to try out. Think I might test it out with lesser whipped cream though.
Elaine Nov 16
I think the picture got me I love this from Starbucks but I’ll be trying this ASAP.
Regards
Elaine
angelina Nov 16
this looks delicious. Thank you for the recipe
Sara Nov 16
WOW! This looks absolutely amazing!
Sarah Nov 17
YUMM! This is the ONLY drink I get from Starbucks (cant stand coffee). Im going home to make it tonight
Harmony Rose Nov 19
Simply decadent
What an amazing recipes!