Save to Pinterest A festive, decadent iced coffee inspired by holiday flavors, blending creamy matcha, espresso, caramel brulée sauce, and a touch of Christmas spice for a refreshing winter treat.
This holiday drink quickly became my go-to festive treat to brighten chilly mornings and gatherings.
Ingredients
- Caramel Brulée Sauce: 1/4 cup (60 ml) caramel sauce, 1 tbsp (12 g) brown sugar, 1 tbsp (14 g) unsalted butter, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Matcha Layer: 1 tsp matcha green tea powder, 2 tbsp (30 ml) hot water, 3/4 cup (180 ml) cold milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Coffee Layer: 1/2 cup (120 ml) strong brewed espresso or coffee, cooled
- To Assemble: 1 cup (120 g) ice cubes, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, whipped cream for topping (optional), crushed caramel candies or toffee bits for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the caramel brulée sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine caramel sauce, brown sugar, butter, and sea salt. Stir until melted and smooth about 2 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the matcha layer:
- Whisk matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy. Stir in cold milk.
- Prepare the coffee layer:
- Brew espresso or strong coffee and let it cool.
- Assemble:
- Fill two glasses with ice. Drizzle 1 2 tablespoons of caramel brulée sauce inside each glass. Pour the matcha mixture over the ice, followed by the cooled espresso or coffee.
- Sprinkle spices and garnish:
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg over each drink. Top with whipped cream and garnish with crushed caramel candies or toffee bits if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy the festive layers.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this festive drink has become a cherished holiday tradition with my family.
Notes
Adjust sweetness by adding more caramel sauce or less brown sugar. Pair with gingerbread cookies for a perfect holiday treat.
Required Tools
Small saucepan, whisk, two serving glasses, measuring spoons and cups
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter, whipped cream) may contain gluten or nuts if using commercial caramel sauce or toppings. For allergies verify all packaged ingredients and use suitable substitutes as needed.
Save to Pinterest This festive drink is perfect for holiday mornings or entertaining guests seeking something special.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How do I make the caramel brulée sauce?
Combine caramel sauce, brown sugar, butter, and sea salt in a saucepan. Melt over medium-low heat until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract and let cool.
- → Can I use a substitute for espresso?
Yes, cold brew coffee works well for a milder flavor and can easily replace espresso in this drink.
- → Is it possible to make this vegan-friendly?
Absolutely. Use plant-based milk, vegan caramel sauce, and omit or substitute whipped cream with a vegan alternative.
- → What spices are added to enhance the flavor?
A sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg over each serving adds warm, festive notes to the drink.
- → How should the drink be served?
Serve over ice in glasses, layering caramel brulée sauce, matcha mixture, and cooled espresso. Top with whipped cream and crushed caramel candies if desired.