If you’re craving a salty-sweet coffee treat, a Starbucks nondairy salted caramel cream cold brew could be just the thing. This homemade version gives you all the smooth, caramel-tinged goodness without relying on dairy. Stick around, because you’ll learn exactly how to make it, from whipping up that luscious salted caramel topping to customizing your cold brew just the way you like it.
What is a Starbucks nondairy salted caramel cream cold brew
Simply put, it’s a delightful blend of cold brew coffee and a frothy caramel “cream” made with nondairy milk. The salt in the caramel adds a savory edge that enhances the coffee’s natural flavor. Think of it as that perfect balance of sweet and salty you get from a salted caramel candy, only this time, it’s mixed into a refreshing coffee drink. It’s a standout choice when you want something indulgent but are steering clear of dairy.
How to make a Starbucks nondairy salted caramel cream cold brew
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup nondairy milk (oat milk, almond milk, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon caramel syrup (plus an extra drizzle for serving)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (fine grain)
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup (or your preferred sweetener)
- Ice cubes
Directions
-
Prepare the cold brew
Make or buy your cold brew in advance, then keep it chilled. If you’re making your own, coarsely grind coffee beans and steep them in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, then strain. -
Whip up the cream
In a small bowl, whisk together your nondairy milk, caramel syrup, and sea salt until the mixture is slightly frothy. You can also use a handheld frother for an extra-foamy texture. -
Sweeten the coffee base
Fill a tall glass with ice, then pour in the cold brew. Stir in simple syrup (or your favorite sweetener) to taste. -
Top it off
Gently spoon or pour your salted caramel cream right on top of the cold brew. Feel free to drizzle a bit more caramel syrup for a lovely swirl of sweetness. -
Mix or sip as is
If you like distinct layers, enjoy your first sips with the creamy foam hovering on top. For an evenly blended flavor, stir everything together. Either way, you’ll get a delicious mix of salty caramel and rich coffee.
Nutrition facts
Exact numbers vary, but here’s a rough idea for a 16-ounce serving:
- Calories: ~90–120 (depends on your milk and sweetener)
- Fat: ~2–5 grams (nondairy milk types vary)
- Carbohydrates: ~15–20 grams (from the caramel syrup and sweetener)
- Protein: ~1–3 grams (depending on milk choice)
These figures are estimates, so feel free to tweak your ingredients to meet your dietary needs.
Final thoughts about Starbucks nondairy salted caramel cream cold brew
Whether you’re committed to a nondairy lifestyle or just love experimenting, this salted caramel cream cold brew is a must-try. The slightly salty foam perfectly balances the coffee’s natural bitterness and the caramel’s sugary notes. Plus, having a homemade version means you can control the sweetness and pick your favorite nondairy milk. Enjoy that coffee-shop moment right in your kitchen.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use any nondairy milk for the caramel foam?
Absolutely. Oat milk and almond milk are popular choices because of their creamy textures. Coconut milk can work too, though it has a more noticeable flavor. -
How do I make it less sweet?
Try reducing the caramel syrup or swapping to a sugar-free sweetener. You can also opt for a darker roast cold brew, which sometimes needs less added sweetness. -
Can I make a decaf version?
Yes, simply start with a decaf cold brew. You’ll still get all that salted caramel goodness without the jitters. -
Is there a trick to getting really foamy cream?
A handheld milk frother or small immersion blender is your best bet. Whisking by hand is possible but takes some elbow grease. If you’re using thicker nondairy milks like oat creamer, you’ll likely get good foam faster.
Give this recipe a whirl the next time you want something special in the morning (or as an afternoon pick-me-up). You’ll be surprised how easy it is to skip the coffee shop line and still indulge. Enjoy!
Starbucks Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew Recipe
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes120
kcalIngredients
1 cup cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup nondairy milk (oat milk, almond milk, or your favorite)
1 tablespoon caramel syrup (plus an extra drizzle for serving)
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (fine grain)
1 tablespoon simple syrup (or your preferred sweetener)
Ice cubes
Directions
- Prepare the cold brew: Make or buy your cold brew in advance, then keep it chilled. If you’re making your own, coarsely grind coffee beans and steep them in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, then strain.
- Whip up the cream: In a small bowl, whisk together your nondairy milk, caramel syrup, and sea salt until the mixture is slightly frothy. You can also use a handheld frother for an extra-foamy texture.
- Sweeten the coffee base: Fill a tall glass with ice, then pour in the cold brew. Stir in simple syrup (or your favorite sweetener) to taste.
- Top it off: Gently spoon or pour your salted caramel cream right on top of the cold brew. Feel free to drizzle a bit more caramel syrup for a lovely swirl of sweetness.
- Mix or sip as is: If you like distinct layers, enjoy your first sips with the creamy foam hovering on top. For an evenly blended flavor, stir everything together. Either way, you’ll get a delicious mix of salty caramel and rich coffee.





