This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure policy.
My homemade caramel ribbon crunch frappuccino recipe has become a recent household obsession. It features coffee blended with caramel drizzle, then topped with crunchy caramel bits.
The ultimate Starbucks dupe at home!
I have always been a diehard Caramel Ribbon Crunch frappe kind of guy until my wallet (and my common sense) dictated that I make it at home… and I’ve never turned back!
Not only is it far cheaper to make at home, but it’s made with simple ingredients, and I can add as much dark caramel sauce as my heart desires! It’s ready in seconds and so easy to customize. I prefer the classic blended frappuccino, but if you want a warm version (like my family does), I’ll explain how to make one!
Need more Starbucks dupes? Try my salted caramel cream cold brew, peppermint mocha, or gingerbread latte next.
Key Ingredients
- Ice. The smaller the ice you use, the creamier it will be.
- Cold coffee. You have a few options here, depending on how strong you want the frappuccino to be. I’ve tried it with cold brew concentrate, espresso, and instant coffee, so use whichever you prefer caffeine-wise.
- Your choice of milk. I like to use unsweetened almond milk, but any milk works, including whole milk, coconut milk, oat milk, etc. For a silkier texture, use heavy cream.
- Sugar. White sugar, brown sugar, or sugar free subs (like allulose).
- Caramel syrup. I use my homemade sugar-free caramel syrup to keep things lighter, but any store-bought sauce can be used. Half will be in the blended coffee, and the rest will be drizzled on top.
- Whipped cream. A must for any good frappuccino (but also you do you!).
- Candy bits. Optional, but this stays true to a traditional caramel ribbon crunch drink. Stick to chopped-up caramel candies.
How to make Starbucks caramel ribbon crunch frappuccino
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 1- Blend. Combine all ingredients (except half of the caramel syrup) and blend until smooth.
Step 2- Serve. Pour the drink into two glasses and top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and crushed candy topping.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Add xanthan gum. If you’re worried about the frappuccino separating after it’s blended, add ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum. This will help thicken the drink and prevent the liquid from separating.
- Adjust the flavor. Give the drink a taste and add extra caramel syrup to level up the sweet caramel flavor.
- Use coffee ice cubes. So your delicious drink doesn’t get diluted when you blend it.
More addictive coffee recipes
Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino
Ingredients
- 1 cup ice
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee or 1-2 espresso shots * See notes
- 1 cup milk I used unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons caramel sauce divided
- 1/4 cup whipped cream
- 1 tablespoon caramel candy crushed, optional
Instructions
- In a high-speed blender, add the ice, coffee, milk, sugar, and two tablespoons of caramel sauce. Blend until completely combined.
- Transfer into two glasses and top with whipped cream, drizzle with the remaining caramel sauce, and sprinkle the crushed-up candy pieces.
Notes
Nutrition
Originally published August 2021, updated and republished December 2024
Is caramel sauce bought one or I can make my own? Sou have recipe for that?
Dear, your caramel sauce link goes to vanilla frosting on Amazon.
Thanks for letting me know- will fix!