Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew Recipe

Indulge in the magic of homemade Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew – your new caffeine retreat awaits!

By Matt Simmons

If you love coffee that’s both refreshing and sweet, you’ve probably heard of the Starbucks vanilla sweet cream cold brew. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and surprisingly easy to recreate at home. In fact, once you learn to whip up your own version, you might never need to wait in line again. Let’s walk through the basics so your morning pick-me-up is just seconds away.

What is a Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

This beverage is a tasty cold brew coffee topped with velvety vanilla sweet cream. Cold brew (coffee grounds steeped in cold water for several hours) has a smoother, less acidic flavor than coffee brewed with hot water. Pair that soft coffee base with a sweet cream topping that contains vanilla syrup, and you’ve got yourself a delightful balance of mild sweetness and bold caffeine.

Think of it as an iced coffee treat that hits all the right notes: rich coffee taste, gentle vanilla aroma, and a slightly frothy layer of cream you can sip straight off the top. What’s not to love?

How to Make a Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

Ingredients

1 cup cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 tablespoon milk (2% or whole)
1 teaspoon vanilla syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes

Directions

Brew or buy cold brew. If making at home, steep ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, then strain.
In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, stir together heavy cream, milk, and vanilla syrup.
Use a handheld frother or whisk to lightly foam the cream mixture. You’re aiming for a velvety texture, so just a few seconds will do.
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in your cold brew up to about three-quarters of the glass.
Gently drizzle the foamed vanilla cream on top of the cold brew.

Tip: Give it a light stir if you prefer the flavors combined, or sip it straight to enjoy that sweet layer first.

Nutrition Facts

Exact numbers vary depending on the type of milk and cream you use, but here’s the ballpark for one serving:

Calories: 100–120
Protein: 1–2 grams
Carbs: Approximately 10 grams (from the vanilla syrup)
Sugar: 8–10 grams
Fat: Around 6–7 grams (mostly from the cream)

If you’re looking to reduce calories or sugar, consider using a sugar-free vanilla syrup and swapping heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative.

Final Thoughts about Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

Your homemade Starbucks vanilla sweet cream cold brew can be just as delicious as the coffee chain’s version, and you can tweak it to match your personal taste. Prefer a bit more vanilla? Add an extra splash of syrup. Want a thicker cream? Use a higher ratio of heavy cream to milk. In no time, you’ll have a go-to coffee routine that’s both wallet-friendly and tailored to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make a bigger batch of cold brew at once?
Absolutely. You can prepare a larger container of cold brew to keep in the fridge for several days. It’s a timesaver, especially when you want a quick coffee fix.
Is there a good way to make it sugar-free?
Yes. Swap out the standard vanilla syrup for a sugar-free alternative. You’ll still get the vanilla flavor without the extra calories.
What if I don’t have a frother?
You can stir the cream vigorously with a whisk or even shake it in a sealed jar. It won’t get as foamy, but it works in a pinch.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
Not at all. You could use half-and-half or even a non-dairy creamer. Just keep in mind the taste and creaminess will change slightly.
How strong is this drink?
Cold brew is generally smoother than hot coffee, but it can still pack a caffeine punch. If you like it less strong, add a bit more water or milk.