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Want something cold and sweet with layers of caramel and a crunchy bite This Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino brings that classic coffee shop treat into your own kitchen No more driving out for a creamy iced coffee full of caramel ribbons and piled high with fluffy whipped cream
My first time making this at home the caramel smell totally filled the house My partner now asks for it every single weekend especially when it's hot out
Delightful Ingredients
- Caramel crunch topping: Crunch is a must Try smashed toffee bars or throw together some caramel bites for that perfect finish
- Ice cubes: Super important for that thick frosty texture Fresh ice keeps the flavor clean and tasty
- Whipped cream: The cloud on top Whip up your own for that extra fluff or grab some from the store if you're in a rush
- Whole or non-dairy milk: This is for the creamy feel Barista oat milk or whole milk gives you the richest sip
- Brewed coffee or espresso: For coffee punch Make sure it's cooled and strong Great coffee beans add serious flavor
- Caramel sauce: Sweet buttery ribbons all through it Go for a real butter sauce or make your own if you want a wow flavor
- Granulated sugar (optional): Only if you want it sweeter Skip it if you don’t like your drinks too sugary
- Vanilla extract: A dash warms everything up Real vanilla gives a big difference
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling: To load even more caramel in every sip Pick a thick sauce for those dramatic waves
Step-by-Step Directions
- Serve:
- Pop a straw in and enjoy right away so the icy layers and caramel crunch stay fresh and perfect
- Top it Off:
- Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top Drizzle on more caramel and pile on those crunchy caramel bits
- Pour and Layer:
- Pour your blended drink into the glass but leave space at the top for all the toppings
- Prepare the Glass:
- Sling caramel sauce around the inside edge of your cup for golden stripes with every sip
- Blend the Base:
- Toss milk coffee or espresso ice caramel sauce sugar if you're using it and vanilla in your blender Hit it on high until it's all smooth and there are no funky ice chunks left Aim for extra creaminess
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The crunchy caramel bits honestly make this drink stand out One time my niece got to build her own and couldn't stop laughing as we dropped caramel bits on She still talks about it
Storing Info
These frappuccinos taste best right after blending for that icy texture If you need to prep ahead blend everything but keep it in the fridge for up to a few hours Just reblend with ice when you want it Toppings always go on at the very end
Swap-Out Options
Try almond oat or coconut milk to make it dairy-free or for allergies Replace espresso with more coffee or use caramel syrup and extra ice for a non-caffeinated treat For the crunchy topping chopped nuts add a tasty salty-sweet kick
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Serving Ideas
Serve up your frappuccino alongside cookies for a killer movie snack Pour it into mason jars if you want a fun party look Or sprinkle on a little flaky salt for a grown-up flavor boost
Fun Backstory
Frappuccinos went big in the 90s bringing the love for cold coffee drinks and milkshake vibes together Starbucks made them huge especially for summer The caramel ribbon crunch is a favorite because folks love both the caramel and that extra texture
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s a good coffee swap?
Use caramel syrup or swap in extra milk if you don’t want caffeine, but still want a creamy, rich flavor.
- → How can I make it extra creamy?
Blend some heavy cream and milk before tossing in your other goodies. Makes everything richer and silkier.
- → Can I skip dairy here?
Yep! Go for oat, soy, or almond milk—each will keep things creamy and totally delicious.
- → What is the caramel crunch topping?
Smashed up toffee, crumbled caramel candy, or even bits of graham cracker all add a fun crunch and flavor.
- → How do I tweak how sweet it is?
Add more or less caramel sauce or sugar depending on how sugary you want your drink to be.