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This Caramel Pumpkin Spice Iced Coffee is the perfect way to enjoy all the cozy flavors of fall while keeping your drink refreshingly cold. It blends creamy pumpkin purée with smooth cold brew coffee and a sweet caramel drizzle to create a rich and indulgent treat. Whether you need a quick morning pick me up or a delightful afternoon break, this recipe offers a simple way to bring the taste of pumpkin spice season to your kitchen without the wait or cost of a coffee shop.
I first tried this recipe during an unseasonably warm October and found it to be a refreshing way to enjoy my favorite fall flavors. Now I make it regularly, especially when I want that autumn vibe but need something cool.
Ingredients
- Cold brew coffee: One cup cold brew coffee or strong brewed coffee chilled to deliver a smooth coffee base
- Milk: Half a cup milk or any milk alternative to add creaminess—almond or oat milk works great here
- Pumpkin purée: Two tablespoons pumpkin purée for that authentic pumpkin flavor use fresh or high quality canned for best results
- Caramel sauce: One tablespoon caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling which creates a luscious sweetness and makes the drink feel special
- Maple syrup: One tablespoon maple syrup or another sweetener to balance the spices and pumpkin
- Pumpkin spice: Half a teaspoon pumpkin spice which brings warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—freshly ground if possible
- Vanilla extract: Quarter teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance all the flavors and add a subtle sweetness
- Ice cubes: Ice cubes to keep your coffee refreshingly cold without diluting the flavor
- Optional topping: Optional whipped cream to top it off for a decadent finish
Instructions
- Mix Pumpkin Caramel and Spices:
- In a small cup or bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, caramel sauce, maple syrup, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract until you get a smooth mixture without lumps. Make sure the pumpkin purée is well blended to avoid clumps in your coffee.
- Add Coffee and Milk:
- Pour your chilled cold brew or strong coffee into a tall glass, then add the milk. Stir gently to combine the liquids, creating a creamy base that sets the stage for the pumpkin flavor.
- Add the Pumpkin Mixture:
- Stir in the pumpkin caramel mixture thoroughly so it infuses every sip with that cozy spice and sweetness you want from this treat.
- Add Ice and Drizzle Caramel:
- Fill the glass to the top with ice cubes to keep the drink well chilled. Finish by drizzling extra caramel sauce over the ice for a glossy, indulgent touch.
- Top with Whipped Cream:
- If you like, add a generous swirl of whipped cream and an additional drizzle of caramel sauce on top for that café style presentation and extra indulgence.
Pumpkin purée is my favorite ingredient here. It adds a velvety texture and natural sweetness that makes this coffee drink feel like a comforting hug in a cup. I remember the first time my kids tasted this and declared it their new favorite fall treat. It’s one of those recipes that never lasts long in our house once it appears.
Storage Tips
The best way to enjoy this iced coffee is fresh but you can prepare the pumpkin caramel base in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to drink, just add it to your cold coffee and milk, stir, and serve. Avoid assembling the full iced coffee ahead of time to prevent the ice from melting and watering down the drink.
Ingredient Substitutions
No cold brew available? Brew strong coffee and chill it in the fridge. This works just as well and saves you from an extra run to the store. If you prefer a non dairy version, almond milk or oat milk provides a light creaminess that compliments pumpkin spice beautifully. Coconut milk adds richness but may alter the flavor slightly. For sweetness alternatives, feel free to use honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute to suit your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in a tall glass with a straw for easy sipping. Pair it with warm cinnamon muffins or pumpkin bread if you want a festive snack alongside. Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a decorative touch and to enhance the spice aroma. This drink also makes a great brunch addition during fall gatherings and pairs well with dishes like apple pancakes or roasted nuts.
Now you can enjoy that rich, creamy pumpkin spice flavor in an iced coffee that you make right at home. Give it a try and see how you can make it your own.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What coffee works best for this drink?
Use quality cold brew coffee or strong brewed coffee chilled for the best smooth flavor and richness.
- → Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy option?
Yes, almond, oat, or coconut milk work well and add their own subtle flavors to the drink.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness level?
Modify the amount of caramel sauce and maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
- → Is it possible to make this drink sugar-free?
Absolutely, use sugar-free caramel sauce and sweetener alternatives for a lower sugar version.
- → How do I get a frothy texture?
Use a milk frother or small whisk to blend ingredients smoothly and create a light foam.
- → What's a good way to keep the coffee from watering down quickly?
Chill your glass before preparing the drink to maintain the cold temperature longer and prevent fast dilution.