Salted Caramel Cold Coffee (Café-Style Creamy & Refreshing)
If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and refreshing coffee drink that tastes like it came from your favorite café, this Salted Caramel Cold Coffee is the perfect choice. The combination of bold coffee, smooth milk, sweet caramel, and a hint of sea salt creates an irresistible balance of flavors. It’s ideal for hot summer afternoons, weekend brunches, or whenever you need an energy boost with a delicious twist.
This homemade version is easy to prepare in just a few minutes using simple ingredients while delivering a luxurious café-quality experience.
Recipe Information
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 minutes |
| Total Time | 7 minutes |
| Servings | 2 |
| Cuisine | International |
| Course | Beverage |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- 2 cups chilled whole milk
- 3 tablespoons salted caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream (optional for extra richness)
For Garnishing
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Dissolve the Coffee
Mix the instant coffee with warm water until completely dissolved.
Step 2: Blend Everything
In a blender, combine:
- Chilled milk
- Dissolved coffee
- Salted caramel sauce
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Sea salt
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cream (optional)
Blend for 40–60 seconds until smooth, creamy, and frothy.
Step 3: Prepare the Glass
Drizzle caramel sauce around the inside of two serving glasses for a café-style presentation.
Step 4: Pour the Coffee
Pour the blended cold coffee into the prepared glasses.
Step 5: Garnish
Top with whipped cream, drizzle more caramel sauce, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt, and finish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Serve immediately while cold.
Chef’s Tips
- Use full-fat chilled milk for the creamiest texture.
- Freeze coffee into ice cubes to avoid diluting the drink.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style version.
- Blend a little longer for extra foam.
- Always use flaky sea salt rather than regular table salt for the best flavor.
Variations
Mocha Salted Caramel Cold Coffee
Blend with 1 tablespoon cocoa powder.
Vanilla Salted Caramel Coffee
Increase vanilla extract to 1 teaspoon.
Protein Coffee
Add one scoop of vanilla protein powder.
Dairy-Free Version
Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
Frozen Coffee Frappé
Blend with extra ice until thick like a smoothie.
Storage
This drink tastes best when served immediately. If necessary, refrigerate for up to 12 hours in an airtight bottle. Shake well before serving and add fresh ice.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cold coffee with:
- Chocolate brownies
- Butter cookies
- Banana bread
- Croissants
- Cinnamon rolls
- Chocolate muffins
- Coffee cake
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Sugar | 24 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Calcium | 240 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
Yes. Use about ½ cup of chilled strong brewed coffee and reduce the milk slightly.
Which milk works best?
Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but skim milk, oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk also work well.
Can I make it without sugar?
Yes. Omit the sugar or use honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener.
Is salted caramel cold coffee served hot?
No. It is traditionally served chilled over ice for a refreshing experience.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate it for a few hours, but blend or shake it again before serving for the best texture.
