Creamy Salted Caramel Cold Brew Latte Recipe – Easy Homemade Coffee Drink

Imagine this: the gently sweet scent of caramel swirling through your kitchen, mingled with the deep, toasty aroma of cold brew coffee. There’s a little hiss as you pour your cold brew over ice, and then the magic happens—the creamy salted caramel mixture cascades in, creating mesmerizing ribbons that dance in your glass. The first time I whipped up this Creamy Salted Caramel Cold Brew Latte with Whipped Cream, it felt like the kind of treat you’d get from a fancy café—but honestly, I was in my own slippers, at my kitchen table.

It all started on one sticky summer day when plain iced coffee just wasn’t cutting it. I wanted something richer, a little decadent, but not too heavy. My grandma used to say, “If you’re gonna do coffee, do it right,” and she was never wrong. I’d been experimenting with homemade cold brew for a while—sometimes with mixed results (let’s just say one batch tasted suspiciously like old socks)—but when I paired it with homemade salted caramel sauce, I knew I’d struck gold. The kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Now, my family are coffee fiends. My husband couldn’t stop sneaking sips right off the spoon, and my kids (yes, even the teens who are “too cool” for anything) kept asking for their own decaf versions. I wish I’d stumbled on this recipe years ago—it’s pure, nostalgic comfort with a grown-up twist. Dangerously easy, too. Whether you’re looking for a Pinterest-worthy brunch drink, a pick-me-up for a rainy afternoon, or a sweet treat for your next book club, this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte delivers every time.

I tested this recipe more times than I’ll admit (in the name of research, of course). It’s now a staple for family gatherings and gifting—one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a glass. You’re going to want to bookmark this one!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Salted Caramel Cold Brew Latte

As someone who’s had plenty of coffee mishaps (burnt beans, watery brews—you name it), I can honestly say this recipe is a game changer. It’s been trialed, tweaked, and taste-tested by my caffeine-loving crew, so you can trust it delivers every time. Here’s why folks rave about it:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 10 minutes once your cold brew is ready—perfect for rushed mornings or unexpected guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy syrups or specialty coffee shop gadgets. You probably have everything you need right now.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Sunday brunch, a summer picnic, or your daily pick-me-up, this latte fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love the sweetness (just use decaf for them), grown-ups swoon over the caramel, and guests always ask for seconds.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The silky caramel, the bold coffee, the rich creaminess—every sip is pure comfort.

What sets this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte apart? The homemade caramel sauce, for starters. Store-bought just never hits the same note, you know? Plus, the pinch of flaky salt lifts the sweetness and makes each sip irresistible. I use a blend of heavy cream and milk for that perfect texture—never too thin, never cloying. If you like your coffee bold, this recipe lets you control the brew. Want it lighter? Splash in more milk. It’s customizable, forgiving, and always delicious.

It’s not just another cold coffee drink—this one’s made for lingering over a good book, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself without a trip to the café. I’ve made this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte for birthdays, lazy weekends, even as a sweet surprise for my neighbor. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes after the first sip and just savor the moment.

Comforting, quick, and packed with flavor—that’s why this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte with whipped cream is my go-to coffee treat. If you’re looking to upgrade your morning routine or add a little sparkle to your next get-together, trust me, this drink is it.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold caramel flavor and velvety coffee texture without any fuss. Most are pantry staples (plus, you can swap things around for dietary needs). Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Cold Brew:
  • Coarsely ground coffee beans (about 1 cup / 100g)
  • Cold filtered water (4 cups / 950ml)
• For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g)
  • Unsalted butter (3 tbsp / 42g, cut into pieces)
  • Heavy cream (1/4 cup / 60ml, room temperature)
  • Sea salt or flaky salt (1/2 tsp or to taste)
• For the Latte:
  • Prepared cold brew coffee (about 1 cup / 240ml per serving)
  • Whole milk or your favorite milk (1/2 cup / 120ml, chilled; oat or almond milk works too)
  • Salted caramel sauce (2-3 tbsp / 30-45ml, adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes (a generous handful)
• For the Whipped Cream:
  • Heavy cream (1/2 cup / 120ml, chilled)
  • Powdered sugar (1 tbsp / 8g, optional)
  • Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp / 2.5ml, optional)
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Extra caramel drizzle
  • Pinch of flaky salt
  • Chocolate shavings or espresso powder

Ingredient Tips: For best flavor, use freshly ground coffee beans. My go-to for caramel is the Kerrygold unsalted butter—trust me, the difference is real. If you’re dairy-free, swap in coconut cream and oat milk. Want to cut the sugar? Use a sugar substitute in the caramel (but watch the texture).

In winter, I sometimes toss a cinnamon stick into the cold brew. In summer, a splash of vanilla makes it extra dreamy. If you need gluten-free, this recipe is naturally safe—just check your additives. Kids love it with extra whipped cream (I mean, who doesn’t?). For a vegan twist, coconut cream whips up beautifully.

All in all, the ingredients are flexible, forgiving, and focus on flavor. Don’t overthink it; just use what you’ve got!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy espresso machine for this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte—just some basic kitchen gear. Here’s what I use every time:

• Large jar or pitcher (for steeping cold brew)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (for filtering coffee grounds)
• Small saucepan (for caramel sauce)
• Whisk or heatproof spoon (for stirring caramel)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (for whipped cream; a whisk and elbow grease works too!)
• Tall glasses (for serving)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ice cube tray

If you don’t have a mesh strainer, a clean kitchen towel works for straining cold brew (I’ve done it in a pinch). For caramel, a nonstick pan helps with cleanup. I use a budget-friendly electric hand mixer for whipped cream, but a balloon whisk does the job if you’re feeling old-school. Tall mason jars look extra cute for serving and work great for shaking up the latte. And don’t forget a sturdy spoon for swirling that caramel into your coffee!

Maintenance tip: if you use a cheesecloth, rinse it immediately after straining—caramelized coffee can cling. For the saucepan, soak with warm water right after caramelizing to avoid sticky residue.

Honestly, you don’t need any gadgets you wouldn’t already have, so don’t let equipment hold you back from making this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte at home!

How to Make Creamy Salted Caramel Cold Brew Latte with Whipped Cream

Let’s break it down step by step so your creamy salted caramel cold brew latte comes out just right every time. I’ll include tips and timing for each part:

1. Make the Cold Brew Coffee (8-12 hours ahead):
   • Combine 1 cup (100g) coarsely ground coffee beans and 4 cups (950ml) cold filtered water in a large jar or pitcher.
   • Stir gently, cover, and let steep in the fridge for 8-12 hours (overnight works best).
   • Troubleshooting: If your cold brew tastes bitter, reduce steeping time or use coarser grounds.
   • Strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar. Discard grounds.
   • Sensory cue: Cold brew should be dark, robust, and smell like a coffeehouse.
2. Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce (10 minutes):
   • In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring gently until it melts and turns amber (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Add 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, whisk until melted.
   • Slowly pour in 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream—mixture will bubble up. Whisk until smooth.
   • Stir in 1/2 tsp sea salt (or more, to taste). Let cool slightly. (If sauce seems too thick, add a splash of cream.)
   • Warning: The caramel will be hot—avoid touching it directly.
   • Sensory cue: Caramel should smell buttery, with a deep golden color.
3. Whip the Cream (5 minutes):
   • In a cold bowl, combine 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1 tbsp (8g) powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) vanilla extract.
   • Beat with hand mixer on medium-high until soft peaks form (about 2 minutes). For stiffer peaks, beat a bit longer.
   • Tip: Overbeating makes butter—watch for fluffy, pillowy texture.
   • Sensory cue: Whipped cream should be smooth and hold gentle peaks.
4. Assemble the Latte (2 minutes):
   • Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
   • Pour 1 cup (240ml) cold brew coffee over ice.
   • Add 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (or your choice of milk).
   • Stir in 2-3 tbsp (30-45ml) salted caramel sauce (adjust to taste).
   • Swirl well for even flavor.
   • Sensory cue: Watch caramel ribbons melt into the coffee for that signature look.
5. Top & Serve (1 minute):
   • Spoon a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
   • Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and a pinch of flaky salt.
   • Optional: Add chocolate shavings for a fancy touch.
   • Enjoy immediately!

Efficiency tip: Make cold brew and caramel ahead of time. Whipped cream keeps in the fridge for a day. For parties, prep glasses with ice and caramel, then pour coffee and milk for quick assembly.

Common issues: Caramel splitting? Lower the heat and whisk longer. Flat whipped cream? Chill your bowl and beaters before starting.

This creamy salted caramel cold brew latte is forgiving. If your caramel goes wonky, just stir with extra cream and keep going. The end result will still be delicious!

Professional Cooking Tips & Techniques

Even after years of coffee experiments, I still pick up new tricks every batch. Here’s what I’ve learned for creamy salted caramel cold brew latte perfection:

• Cold Brew Basics: Always use coarsely ground beans—finer grinds make the coffee muddy and bitter. Steep in the fridge, not on the counter, for smoother flavor.
• Caramel Mastery: Don’t rush the sugar. Let it melt slowly and watch for the color shift from pale gold to amber. If it burns (I’ve been there!), start over—burnt caramel can’t be rescued.
• Whipped Cream Consistency: Use cold cream and cold bowl. If it won’t thicken, pop it in the freezer for five minutes and whip again. Overbeaten cream turns grainy—stop when it holds soft peaks.
• Layering for Visual Appeal: Add caramel to the glass before coffee for pretty swirls. For Pinterest-worthy shots, pour milk slowly so it floats atop the coffee, then swirl.
• Timing: Prep caramel and cold brew ahead to make assembly lightning fast on busy mornings. Whipped cream can be made a few hours ahead (just don’t overwhip).
• Consistency: Measure caramel and milk—too much caramel, and it gets cloying; too little, and you lose the magic.
• Multitasking: While cold brew steeps, whip up caramel and prep your glasses. For hosting, set up a “latte bar” so guests can customize their toppings.

Personal fail: Once, I added hot caramel straight to ice. It seized up instantly—lesson learned! Always let caramel cool before mixing. Another tip: if your cold brew tastes off, try a different bean roast or water filter. Little changes make a big difference, trust me.

Stick to these tips, and your creamy salted caramel cold brew latte with whipped cream will be spot-on every time. It’s all about practice and a little patience!

Variations & Adaptations

This creamy salted caramel cold brew latte is seriously flexible—here are three fun variations to help you make it your own:

• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Swap whole milk and heavy cream for oat milk and coconut cream. Use vegan butter in the caramel (Earth Balance works well). The result? Still creamy, still delicious!
• Low-Sugar: Use stevia or monkfruit sweetener in the caramel sauce. Skip the whipped cream or use a sugar-free variety. The flavor stays bold, but the sugar drops way down.
• Mocha Twist: Add 1 tbsp (8g) unsweetened cocoa powder to the caramel sauce and stir in a pinch of espresso powder. You’ll get a rich, chocolatey kick—perfect for chilly mornings.

Seasonally, try adding pumpkin spice to the whipped cream in autumn or a splash of peppermint extract for winter holidays. In spring, a dash of vanilla bean makes the latte extra fragrant.

Different brewing methods? You can use store-bought cold brew or leftover brewed coffee chilled overnight. For a hot version (when you want cozy vibes), warm the milk and caramel, then pour over hot coffee—skip the ice.

Allergen swaps: Use almond or soy milk for nut-free needs. For gluten-free, double-check your caramel sauce ingredients (some brands use thickeners).

Personal favorite: I once added a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the caramel. It was like sipping a snickerdoodle. Play around and see what makes this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serving: This creamy salted caramel cold brew latte with whipped cream is best served ice-cold, in a tall glass, with generous whipped cream and a caramel drizzle. For brunch, pair it with cinnamon rolls or fruit salad. At book club, serve in mason jars with striped straws—super Pinterest-worthy!

Complementary dishes? Try it alongside croissants, egg bites, or a simple cheese plate. For a sweet treat, a slice of coffee cake brings out the caramel notes.

Storage: Cold brew keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week. Caramel sauce will last 2 weeks in a sealed jar—just microwave gently to loosen before using. Whipped cream keeps for 24 hours (re-whip if it deflates).

Reheating: For a warm latte, heat milk and caramel in the microwave (30-40 seconds), then add to hot coffee. Skip the ice. Whipped cream can be re-whipped if needed (but I rarely have leftovers!).

Flavor tip: The caramel actually deepens in flavor after a day or two. If you make extra, the next round is even better. Don’t be afraid to batch and save—this latte is made for sharing and savoring.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy salted caramel cold brew latte with whipped cream is a treat, but it’s not all indulgence. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: ~260
• Fat: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~28g
• Protein: ~4g

Health Benefits: Cold brew coffee is lower in acidity than hot coffee, which can be gentler on your stomach. Dairy (or plant-based alternatives) provides calcium and protein. Sea salt isn’t just for flavor—it actually helps balance electrolytes.

Dietary notes: This recipe can easily be made gluten-free and low-carb with the right swaps. Potential allergens include dairy and nuts (if using almond milk). For vegan, use coconut cream and plant milk.

My wellness take? I see this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte as a mood booster. It’s a sweet treat that’s easy to tweak for your needs. Coffee is my little daily joy, and this recipe makes it feel extra special without going overboard.

Conclusion

This creamy salted caramel cold brew latte with whipped cream is more than just a coffee drink—it’s a little moment of joy in your day. The homemade caramel, the bold cold brew, the cloud of whipped cream… it’s comfort in a glass that’s easy, customizable, and always a hit.

Whether you like things on the sweeter side or prefer a bold coffee kick, you can tweak this recipe to your heart’s content. That’s why I love it—it’s forgiving, fun, and always feels special.

So go ahead, give this creamy salted caramel cold brew latte a try! Leave a comment below with your favorite twist, share your photos on Pinterest, or tell me how you made it your own. Honestly, I hope it brings you the same cozy happiness it brings to my kitchen every time.

Remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own. Here’s to coffee, caramel, and a little homemade magic!

FAQs: Creamy Salted Caramel Cold Brew Latte with Whipped Cream

How do I make cold brew coffee if I don’t have a fancy setup?

Just use a large jar or pitcher, add coarsely ground coffee and water, steep overnight in the fridge, then strain with a mesh strainer or cheesecloth. No special equipment needed!

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of homemade?

Yes, you can, but homemade caramel has a deeper flavor and lets you control the saltiness. If you’re short on time, store-bought works just fine.

What’s the best milk for this recipe?

Whole milk is classic for creaminess, but oat milk and almond milk work great for dairy-free needs. Coconut milk gives an extra-rich texture if you like things decadent.

Can I make this latte ahead of time?

You can prep cold brew and caramel sauce ahead, but it’s best to assemble the latte just before serving. Whipped cream can be made a few hours in advance and kept chilled.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the creamy salted caramel cold brew latte is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your caramel ingredients if using store-bought to be sure.

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