How to Make a Copycat Caramel Apple Spice (Just Like Starbucks!)

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Let’s be honest—Starbucks nailed it with the Caramel Apple Spice. It’s warm, nostalgic, and smells like October. But also… those prices? That queue? Nope. We’re skipping all that and making our own version at home, and it might just taste even better. I’ve tested this on chilly school mornings, lazy weekends, and even poured it into a mason jar for a walk around the block with the dog. Every time, it hits the same sweet spot.

If you’ve been googling “How to make salted caramel apple cider” or hunting for a copycat Starbucks Caramel Apple Cider, you’ve officially landed in the right cozy corner of the internet.

🍏 What You’ll Need

For the base cider:

• 2 cups apple cider (store-bought or homemade apple cider in a mason jar — either works!)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp allspice (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the whipped topping:

• Whipped cream (or coconut whip if dairy-free)
• Caramel sauce, plus more to drizzle
• Pinch of sea salt (for that “salted caramel” vibe)

Tools:

• Saucepan
• Spoon
• Big cozy coffee mug or glass mason jar
• Optional: Cinnamon stick for garnish

☕ Let’s Make It!

1. Simmer the cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and add your cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla. Warm it gently over medium heat, stirring now and then, until it starts to steam (don’t boil it!). Your kitchen will smell like a fall candle aisle in the best way.

📝 This is where you can customize it — add more spice if you’re feeling bold, or keep it soft and sweet.

2. Prepare the caramel

While the cider is warming, warm 2–3 tablespoons of caramel sauce in the microwave or a second pan. If you’re using salted caramel, even better. You want it pourable and gooey.

3. Assemble your drink

Pour the hot spiced cider into your favorite mug or large mason jar. Stir in your caramel sauce gently.

4. Top like a barista

Add whipped cream on top. Then drizzle generously with more caramel and a light sprinkle of sea salt. Add a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.

❄️ Iced Version

Just chill the cider first, or use cold-pressed apple juice. Add the same spices and vanilla, shake it all up in a jar, and pour over ice. Top with whipped cream and caramel if you dare. It’s like Starbucks Apple Cider, but backyard picnic style.

🍁 Serve It With

This caramel apple cider recipe is a dream with:

• Apple cider donuts
• Warm banana bread
• Maple-glazed granola
• A chunky sweater and slippers (not food, but mandatory)

Or do what I do—fill a large jar of homemade apple cider, pour a few servings, and leave it on the stove for guests to help themselves during fall parties.

🧡 Cozy Tweaks

Want to mix it up? Try these:

• Pumpkin twist: Add a spoon of pumpkin butter or pumpkin puree while simmering the cider
• Chai it up: Add a splash of brewed chai tea for a spiced kick
• Caramel Apple Tea: Replace cider with spiced apple tea for a lighter drink
• Spiked version: Add a tiny splash of spiced rum or bourbon for the grown-up table

Final Thoughts

This drink is cozy, quick, and just plain joyful. It’s part Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice, part nostalgic hug in a cup, and all yours now. Whether you’re craving something sweet on a rainy day or want to impress your family with a fancy-looking fall drink, this is your go-to.

So next time someone in the house says, “Should we go get a fall drink?”—you can smile and say, “No need, I’ve got the best one right here.”

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