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Caramel Apple Spice Starbucks Recipe

A homemade copycat of Starbucks’ Caramel Apple Spice featuring tart apple juice infused with warm spices and topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Drink Base
  • 8 ounces apple juice fresh pressed or bottled, not from concentrate if possible
  • 2 tablespoons caramel syrup store-bought or homemade
  • 4 ounces water or substitute steamed milk for a creamier version
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg about 1/8 teaspoon
  • Pinch of allspice about 1/8 teaspoon
  • Pinch of clove just a tiny amount, as this spice is potent
For Serving
  • 2 tablespoons whipped cream optional, but highly recommended
  • 1 teaspoon caramel drizzle for the rim or top
  • Ice as needed if making iced version

Equipment

  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe mug
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or spoon for stirring
  • Coffee mug or tall glass
  • Thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Measure and pour 8 ounces of apple juice into a small saucepan or microwave-safe mug and 4 ounces of water into a separate container.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of caramel syrup to the apple juice and stir until fully dissolved.
  3. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg (about 1/8 teaspoon), a pinch of allspice (about 1/8 teaspoon), and a pinch of clove until evenly distributed.
  4. Heat the apple juice mixture over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it steams but does not boil.
  5. Meanwhile, warm the 4 ounces of water to about 175°F (80°C) or until it starts steaming.
  6. Pour the hot water into the spiced apple mixture and stir for about 10 seconds until combined.
  7. Top the drink with about 2 tablespoons of whipped cream and allow it to melt slightly.
  8. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of caramel syrup over the whipped cream.
  9. Taste the drink and adjust sweetness or spice levels as desired.

Notes

Adjust sweetness and spice levels to taste; for an iced version, chill the liquids and serve over ice.