Cold Caramel Cappuccino Recipe & Coffee Lover’s Guide

How to Make Caramel Cold Coffee at Home

Cold Caramel Cappuccino is a refreshing spin on the classic hot cappuccino. Here’s a quick outline of how to make it:

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 3 tbsp + 2 tsp caramel ice cream topping (divided)
• 2 tsp instant coffee granules (or 2 shots of espresso for a richer flavor)
• 8–10 ice cubes
• 4 tbsp whipped cream

Directions

1. In a blender, combine ice cubes, coffee granules (or espresso), 3 tbsp caramel topping, milk, and half-and-half. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into 2 chilled glasses.
3. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with the remaining caramel. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Using freshly ground beans from your coffee grinder instead of instant coffee will give your cappuccino a richer aroma and complexity.

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Caramel Latte vs. Caramel Cappuccino: What's the Difference?

Many coffee enthusiasts ask: “What's the difference between caramel latte and caramel cappuccino?”

• Caramel Latte: Has more steamed milk, a lighter layer of foam, and a creamier texture. It’s typically sweeter and milk-forward.
• Caramel Cappuccino: Has a more balanced ratio of espresso, milk, and foam. Even when served cold, you’ll notice a stronger coffee presence and a slightly lighter body than a latte.

When you make this cold version, the foam texture is recreated by blending the milk and cream with ice, creating a light, frothy consistency.

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Does a Caramel Cappuccino Have Coffee in It?

Absolutely. Whether hot or cold, cappuccinos always contain coffee—traditionally a shot (or two) of espresso. In our chilled recipe, we use instant coffee for convenience, but if you own an espresso coffee maker, you can brew fresh espresso for an upgraded flavor. If you love bold coffee notes, this is the way to go.

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The History Behind the Cappuccino

The cappuccino originated in Italy in the early 20th century, named after the Capuchin friars for the color of their robes. Traditionally served hot in small cups, the recipe evolved around the world into iced and flavored variations like the caramel cappuccino we enjoy today. Cold versions became especially popular in North America, aligning with the trend of iced coffee beverages.

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Tips for Making Barista-Level Coffee at Home

• Invest in Quality Equipment: A reliable coffee maker and grinder will upgrade every cup you make.
• Choose Fresh, High-Quality Beans: Coffee begins losing flavor soon after grinding. Always grind just before brewing.
• Experiment with Milk Types: While half-and-half adds richness, you can try oat milk or almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
• Balance Sweetness and Coffee Strength: If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, reduce the caramel slightly or add an extra shot of espresso.

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Perfect Pairings for Cold Caramel Cappuccino

This indulgent drink pairs beautifully with light pastries like croissants, biscotti, or almond muffins. If you prefer something savory, a slice of quiche or a breakfast sandwich complements the drink’s sweetness for a balanced brunch.