The Caramel Apple Spice Cider is a Starbucks favorite, loved for its cozy fall flavors and comforting warmth.
This spiced apple drink combines caramel’s sweetness with cinnamon’s warmth, making it a seasonal must-have.
Why wait in line when you can make it at home? It’s quick, easy, and far more budget-friendly.
Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste.
Here’s how to recreate this autumn classic with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
How to Make Caramel Apple Spice Cider: At A Glance
- Heat Apple Juice/Cider: Warm 4–6 cups on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Add Cinnamon Syrup: Mix in 1 tablespoon per cup for spiced flavor.
- Serve: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream.
- Drizzle Caramel Sauce: Add 1–2 teaspoons per serving for a sweet finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or add a cinnamon stick.
What is Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice Cider?
Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice Cider is a warm, spiced drink made with steamed apple juice, cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce.
The cinnamon dolce syrup adds a sweet, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the natural tartness of the apple juice.
Topped with creamy whipped cream and sticky caramel, it’s a dessert-like treat served in a cup.
This drink does not contain coffee or caffeine, making it a popular choice for non-coffee drinkers.
It’s especially loved during the fall and holiday seasons, offering a cozy, festive flavor that feels like autumn in every sip.
Benefits of Making It at Home
Save Money Without Sacrificing Flavor
Making Caramel Apple Spice Cider at home is a cost-effective alternative to buying it at Starbucks.
A single cup at the café can add up quickly, especially if it’s a regular indulgence.
By recreating it in your kitchen, you can enjoy the same delicious drink for a fraction of the price using affordable ingredients you likely already have or can easily find.
Customize the Ingredients to Your Preference
When you make this drink at home, you control every ingredient.
This allows you to adjust the sweetness, spice level, or caramel drizzle to your liking.
You can use organic apple juice, homemade caramel sauce, or even swap in sugar-free syrups for a healthier version.
If you follow a vegan or dairy-free diet, it’s easy to substitute plant-based whipped cream and caramel sauce.
The flexibility is endless.
Perfect for Groups and Gatherings
At home, you can prepare larger batches to serve a crowd, making it ideal for fall parties, family gatherings, or cozy evenings with friends.
By using a slow cooker, you can keep the cider warm for hours, letting guests help themselves.
This not only saves time but also creates a festive centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients Needed
Apple Juice or Apple Cider
You’ll need 4 to 6 cups of apple juice or apple cider for this recipe.
Apple juice is clear and sweet, while cider is unfiltered and richer in flavor.
For the best taste, choose 100% pure pressed juice or cider without added sugars or preservatives.
Brands like Simply Apple are ideal for their natural, full-bodied quality.
Cinnamon Syrup
Use 2 to 4 tablespoons of cinnamon syrup, depending on your desired level of sweetness and spice.
For an authentic flavor, you can use Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Syrup.
Alternatively, try Torani Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup or DaVinci Cinnamon Syrup.
To make your own, combine 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a saucepan.
Simmer until syrupy, and store any leftovers in the fridge.
Caramel Sauce
You’ll need 1/4 cup of caramel sauce for the cider and an additional 2 tablespoons for drizzling, if desired.
Store-bought brands like Torani or Ghirardelli are quick and convenient.
For a homemade option, melt 1 cup sugar, then whisk in 6 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
Add a pinch of salt if you want a salted caramel variation.
Whipped Cream
Use 1/2 cup whipped cream as a topping for the cider.
Ready-to-use whipped cream is convenient, but making your own is simple and rewarding.
Whip 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
This yields enough for multiple servings and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Optional Garnishes
For a festive touch, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon over the whipped cream.
Adding a cinnamon stick to each cup not only looks elegant but also infuses the cider with more spice as it sits.
Homemade Cinnamon Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix the water, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens slightly. Avoid boiling to prevent the sugar from crystallizing.
- Add Vanilla (Optional): Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cool and Store: Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean, airtight container or jar.
Storage Instructions
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Shake or stir before each use, as some settling may occur over time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Apple Juice or Cider
For stovetop preparation, pour 4 to 6 cups of apple juice or cider into a medium saucepan.
Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the juice is warm but not boiling (about 150°F to 160°F).
If you prefer using a microwave, pour a single serving (about 1 cup) into a microwave-safe mug and heat on high for 1–2 minutes, checking for your desired temperature.
2. Mix in Cinnamon Syrup
Stir in 1 tablespoon of cinnamon syrup per cup of apple juice or cider.
Adjust to taste if you prefer a stronger or lighter spiced flavor.
If preparing a large batch on the stovetop, add 4–6 tablespoons of syrup to the pot and stir well to combine.
3. Serve the Drink
Once heated and mixed, pour the cider into individual mugs or cups.
Use heat-resistant mugs for a cozy presentation.
4. Add Toppings
Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream, creating a creamy layer that contrasts beautifully with the warm cider.
Drizzle 1 to 2 teaspoons of caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
5. Garnish for Presentation
For a festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the whipped cream.
Add a cinnamon stick to each mug as a garnish.
Not only does it look elegant, but it also infuses extra warmth and spice as the drink sits.
Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy this comforting, fall-inspired treat!
Nutritional Information
- Calorie Count: A 12-ounce serving contains approximately 250–300 calories, depending on ingredients and toppings.
- Sugar Content: Each serving has about 48–55 grams of sugar, primarily from apple juice or cider, cinnamon syrup, and caramel sauce.
- Fat Content: The whipped cream and caramel drizzle add 2–5 grams of fat and 20–40 calories.
Tips for Reducing Sugar Content
- Use unsweetened apple juice or cider to lower natural sugar levels.
- Replace cinnamon syrup with a sugar-free version, such as Torani’s sugar-free Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup.
- Make homemade cinnamon syrup using less sugar or sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol.
- Choose a low-sugar or sugar-free caramel sauce.
- Skip the whipped cream or use a light, plant-based alternative for fewer calories and fat.
Variations and Customizations
Iced Version
Transform this warm drink into a refreshing chilled treat.
Start by cooling the apple juice or cider in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Once cold, stir in 1 tablespoon of cinnamon syrup per cup of juice.
Fill a glass with ice cubes, pour the spiced apple juice over the ice, and stir gently.
For a finishing touch, add whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Spiked Version
Add an adult twist by incorporating spirits into your drink.
After heating the apple cider or juice, stir in 1 ounce of bourbon, rum, or maple whiskey per serving.
Mix well before topping with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
The warmth of the alcohol complements the spiced flavors beautifully, making it an ideal option for holiday parties or cozy evenings by the fire.
For a chilled version, combine the spiced apple juice and spirit over ice and garnish as desired.
Dairy-Free/Vegan Options
Making this drink vegan or dairy-free is simple.
Replace whipped cream with a plant-based alternative made from coconut or almond milk.
Opt for a vegan caramel sauce, available in many stores, or make your own using coconut cream and sugar.
Ensure the cinnamon syrup and apple juice or cider are free from animal-derived additives.
Serving Suggestions
Caramel Apple Spice Cider pairs perfectly with fall-inspired treats, making it a cozy addition to seasonal gatherings.
Serve it alongside pumpkin muffins, apple pie, or cinnamon rolls for a comforting flavor combination.
The spiced notes of the cider enhance the warm, autumnal flavors of these baked goods.
For larger events, consider setting up a DIY caramel apple cider bar.
Keep the cider warm in a slow cooker, and provide bowls of whipped cream, caramel sauce, ground cinnamon, and cinnamon sticks for guests to customize their drinks.
You can also include toppings like mini marshmallows or crushed graham crackers for a fun twist.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Caramel Apple Spice Cider and cinnamon syrup can be stored easily for later use.
Pour any unused cider into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
As we mentioned earlier, if you’ve made a large batch of cinnamon syrup, store it in a clean jar or bottle and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
To reheat the cider, use a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without burning or altering the flavor.
For smaller portions, microwave the cider in a heat-safe mug for 1–2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overheating.
Reheat the cinnamon syrup by briefly microwaving or warming it in a small pot over low heat.
Stir well before using to redistribute any settled spices.
Proper storage and gentle reheating will preserve the drink’s rich, spiced flavor and ensure it tastes just as delicious as when it was first made.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Spice Cider is easy to make at home and just as delicious as the Starbucks version.
With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Try it today and make it your own!
Share your experience or favorite variations with us—we’d love to hear from you.
FAQs
Can apple juice be substituted with apple cider?
Yes, apple juice and apple cider can be used interchangeably.
Apple cider is less filtered and has a richer, more robust flavor, while apple juice is clearer and sweeter.
How can I make the drink less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, use unsweetened apple juice or cider and opt for a sugar-free cinnamon syrup.
You can also decrease the amount of caramel sauce or skip the caramel drizzle entirely.
What are some alternative toppings?
Aside from whipped cream and caramel drizzle, you can try marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
A dollop of vanilla ice cream can also create a fun, dessert-like twist.
For a simple garnish, use ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.