If you’re looking for a drink that perfectly bridges the gap between the cozy warmth of fall flavors and the refreshing chill of iced coffee, this Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of strong brewed coffee with the sweet tang of apple cider, spiced just right with cinnamon and nutmeg, and finished with luscious caramel and whipped cream toppings. This recipe effortlessly combines comforting seasonal ingredients into a cool, invigorating treat that’s sure to brighten your day and become a favorite go-to drink. Whether you want to sip it on a sunny autumn afternoon or impress your friends with a unique coffee twist, this Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe will not disappoint.

Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients together for this drink is a breeze, but don’t underestimate how each one works to build layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the warmth of the spices to the creamy sweetness of caramel and whipped cream, each element is essential to creating a harmonious and satisfying iced coffee experience.

1 cup strong brewed coffee (cold): The bold coffee base brings depth and caffeine kick, so make it strong and let it chill fully.
½ cup apple cider: Adds a bright, fruity zing that balances the bitterness of coffee and complements fall flavors.
2 tablespoons caramel sauce: Sweet, buttery, and sticky, caramel ties the drink together with a rich indulgence.
¼ teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the comforting fall vibe, giving the drink a fragrant kick.
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthiness that deepens the seasonal spice profile.
Ice cubes: Essential for chill and refreshing texture, so pack your glass generously.
Whipped cream: Optional but highly recommended for creamy decadence and an Instagram-worthy finish.
Extra caramel drizzle: For that final, irresistible touch of sweetness and visual glam.

How to Make Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe

Step 1: Brew and Chill Your Coffee

Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee—this is the backbone of your drink, so go bold with your beans. Once brewed, let it cool to room temperature and pop it in the fridge. Chilling your coffee fully is key to avoiding a watered-down taste when the ice gets added later.

Step 2: Combine the Core Flavors

In a tall glass, pour the cold coffee, then add the apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Take a moment here and stir vigorously—no lazy stirring allowed because the spices need to wake up and mingle properly with the coffee and cider.

Step 3: Add Ice Cubes

Fill your glass with ice cubes, but make sure to leave a little headspace for the toppings. The ice keeps your drink refreshingly cool and perfectly balances the intense flavors of the coffee and spices.

Step 4: Top It Off with Whipped Cream and Caramel Drizzle

If you want to elevate your Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe to a café-worthy indulgence, add a generous swirl of whipped cream right on top. Then, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the cream for that beautiful, sticky finish that makes every sip feel like a treat.

Step 5: Sip and Enjoy

Pop in your favorite straw and dive in quickly before the ice melts too much and dilutes that perfect blend. This drink rewards you with a burst of autumnal flavors in every refreshing sip.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond whipped cream and caramel drizzle, try sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top to add a fragrant hint right at the first sip. A thin slice of fresh apple on the rim can also add an elegant, thematic touch and a fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

This drink pairs wonderfully with baked goods that share its warm, cozy vibe. Think cinnamon sugar donuts, spiced pumpkin muffins, or classic apple pie slices. These treats enhance the spice notes and create a harmonious autumn-inspired snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe in vintage mason jars or clear glass tumblers to showcase the beautiful layers and caramel drizzle. You can even rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an extra-special touch that makes your drink look as delightful as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some leftover coffee mix (before adding ice or whipped cream), store it in a covered container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This way, you can quickly assemble a fresh iced coffee without brewing again.

Freezing

Because iced coffee involves ice for chill and texture, freezing the full drink isn’t recommended—it will lose its vibrant flavor and get watered down. However, you can freeze leftover brewed coffee separately in ice cube trays and add those cubes to future drinks for a cool twist without dilution.

Reheating

This recipe is designed to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not ideal. If you prefer a warm version, simply skip the ice and whipped cream, warm up the coffee and apple cider mix gently on the stove, then add the caramel and spices before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice if you like, but apple cider offers a richer, spicier flavor that better complements the fall spices and caramel in this recipe. For best results, go with fresh or real cider.

Is this Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe dairy-free?

The recipe itself is dairy-free except for the whipped cream topping. You can easily make it dairy-free by using a plant-based whipped topping or skipping the cream altogether.

How sweet is this iced coffee?

The caramel sauce and apple cider provide a natural, balanced sweetness that isn’t overpowering. If you love your drinks sweeter, feel free to add a little more caramel or even a splash of vanilla syrup.

Can I make this recipe with cold brew coffee instead?

Absolutely! Cold brew coffee would work beautifully in the Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe and will give you an even smoother, less acidic base to complement the spices and cider.

What’s the best time of day to enjoy this drink?

This is a versatile beverage perfect for morning pick-me-ups, afternoon treats, or even early evening sipping when you want a cozy yet refreshing drink to wind down with.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way this Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe marries bold coffee, sweet caramel, crisp apple cider, and warming spices. It’s a drink that can brighten any day and bring a little extra joy with every sip. I highly encourage you to brew up a batch and share it with friends or simply savor it yourself—you might just find your new favorite seasonal indulgence.

Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee is a delightful blend of rich brewed coffee, crisp apple cider, and warm autumn spices, all topped with whipped cream and a luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for a refreshing yet cozy beverage that combines the best flavors of fall with the energizing kick of coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

1 cup strong brewed coffee (cold)
½ cup apple cider

Flavorings

2 tablespoons caramel sauce
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg

Toppings and Extras

Ice cubes
Whipped cream
Extra caramel drizzle

Instructions

Brew the Coffee: Start by brewing a cup of strong coffee and allow it to cool completely. To speed this up, place the coffee in the refrigerator until chilled.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the cold coffee into a tall glass, then add the apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir vigorously to ensure all the spices and caramel are thoroughly mixed into the coffee.
Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes, leaving enough space on top for the toppings.
Top with Whipped Cream: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream for a rich, creamy finish.
Drizzle Caramel: Finish with an extra drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Serve: Insert a straw and serve immediately to enjoy the refreshing contrast of cold coffee and autumn spices before the ice melts.

Notes

For a stronger coffee flavor, brew your coffee with a dark roast or double the coffee grounds.
Use fresh apple cider for the best authentic fall taste; avoid sweetened or flavored versions.
Adjust the amount of caramel sauce to suit your preferred sweetness level.
This iced coffee works great as a make-ahead drink; just keep refrigerated and add ice and toppings before serving.
You can substitute whipped cream with a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger along with the cinnamon and nutmeg.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (brewing coffee)
Category: Beverage
Method: Brewed and mixed
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 12 oz)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Caramel Apple Spice Iced Coffee, iced coffee recipe, apple cider coffee, caramel coffee drink, autumn beverage, fall coffee recipe, spiced iced coffee