The Caramel Apple Spice is one of Starbucks’ standout non-coffee beverages, offering a warm and comforting flavor profile reminiscent of homemade apple pie. Combining apple juice, cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and a rich caramel drizzle, this drink is the perfect indulgence for any time of year.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
The Caramel Apple Spice is crafted to deliver a cozy and sweet experience, evoking the flavors of autumn in a cup.
Ingredients:
- Apple juice
- Cinnamon dolce syrup
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
Each sip combines the tangy sweetness of apple juice with the warmth of cinnamon and the creamy decadence of whipped cream and caramel, making it a truly indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown of a standard serving (Grande, 16 oz) of Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice:
Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 380 | – |
Calories from Fat | 130 | – |
Total Fat | 14.7 g | 19% |
Saturated Fat | 2.5 g | 13% |
Trans Fat | 0.2 g | – |
Cholesterol | 26.8 mg | 9% |
Sodium | 250 mg | 11% |
Total Carbohydrates | 46.9 g | 17% |
Dietary Fiber | 1 g | 3% |
Sugars | 29 g | – |
Protein | 5 g | – |
With 380 calories and 29 grams of sugar, the Caramel Apple Spice is a delicious yet high-calorie choice. Its rich sweetness makes it a special-occasion treat rather than an everyday drink for those watching their calorie intake.
Customization Options
The Caramel Apple Spice is highly customizable, so you can adjust it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Milk-Free Alternatives
- Skip the whipped cream or request a dairy-free version using almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk for topping.
Reduce Sweetness
- Ask for fewer pumps of cinnamon dolce syrup to tone down the sweetness.
- Opt for a sugar-free version of the syrup if available.
Additional Flavors
- Add a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavor.
- Include a hint of vanilla or caramel drizzle inside the cup for a richer taste.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your experience, pair the Caramel Apple Spice with complementary snacks:
- Sweet Treats: Enjoy with a blueberry muffin, cinnamon scone, or pumpkin loaf for a cohesive flavor experience.
- Savory Options: Balance the sweetness with a breakfast sandwich or a toasted bagel with cream cheese.
- Holiday Favorites: Pair with festive cookies, like gingerbread or sugar cookies, during the holiday season.
How to Make Caramel Apple Spice at Home
If you’re unable to visit a Starbucks, you can recreate the Caramel Apple Spice with a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups apple juice
- 2-3 tbsp cinnamon dolce syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
Instructions:
- Heat the Apple Juice: Warm the apple juice in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
- Mix the Syrup: Stir in the cinnamon dolce syrup and mix well.
- Top It Off: Pour the mixture into a mug and top with whipped cream.
- Add Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce for that signature Starbucks touch.
Pro Tips:
- Use high-quality apple juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon dolce syrup to match your desired sweetness level.
- Experiment with additional spices, like nutmeg or cloves, to create your own twist on this classic drink.

Why Try Caramel Apple Spice?
The Caramel Apple Spice is not just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you’re savoring it on a crisp fall day or indulging in its warm, apple-pie-like flavors during winter, it’s a beverage that brings comfort and joy with every sip.