Description

Enjoy the rich and indulgent Starbucks Caramel Ribbon Crunch, a delightful iced espresso beverage topped with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and crunchy caramel candy bits. This homemade recipe blends chilled espresso, whole milk, and caramel flavor for a perfect sweet and creamy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup espresso (chilled, or double-strength coffee)
2 cups ice cubes
2 oz simple syrup
Pinch xanthan gum (optional, for texture)

Caramel Components

1/4 cup caramel sauce
2 tbsp caramel sauce (for topping)
Crushed caramel candy (for garnish)

Garnish

Whipped cream

Instructions

Prepare the espresso and milk mixture: Brew a strong espresso shot or use double-strength coffee and chill it. Pour the chilled espresso into a blender along with whole milk, simple syrup, caramel sauce (1/4 cup), ice cubes, and a pinch of xanthan gum if using. The xanthan gum helps improve the texture but is optional.
Blend the ingredients: Blend all ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy, ensuring the ice is fully crushed and the caramel is well incorporated.
Assemble and garnish: Pour the blended caramel espresso drink into a tall glass. Top generously with whipped cream, drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce, and sprinkle crushed caramel candy on top for a delightful crunch.

Notes

To make simple syrup, dissolve equal parts sugar and water over low heat and cool before use.
You can substitute whole milk with any milk alternative, but whole milk provides the best creamy texture.
For a stronger coffee flavor, increase espresso concentration or reduce milk slightly.
The crushed caramel candy adds the signature crunch but can be adjusted based on preference.
Xanthan gum is optional but helps create a smooth, creamy consistency without separation.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 16 oz)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Starbucks Caramel Ribbon Crunch, iced caramel coffee, caramel frappe, homemade Starbucks drink, iced espresso beverage, caramel coffee drink