Save to Pins 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 drink has become a holiday favorite in my household, perfect for cozy winter mornings and sharing with friends.
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 23 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 12 tablespoons of caramel brulée sauce inside each glass. Pour the matcha mixture over the ice followed by the cooled espresso or coffee.
- Sprinkle toppings:
- 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 Pins We always enjoy this coffee while decorating the Christmas tree, making it a sweet family tradition.
Notes
For a vegan version use plant-based milk and vegan caramel sauce and whipped cream. Adjust sweetness by adding more caramel sauce or less brown sugar. Coffee can be replaced with cold brew for a milder flavor. 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 Pins This iced coffee perfectly balances creamy and spicy notes for a delightful holiday drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How is the caramel brulée sauce prepared?
Combine caramel sauce, brown sugar, butter, and sea salt in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until melted and smooth, then remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before use.
- → Can I use plant-based milk for the matcha layer?
Yes, plant-based milk works great and makes the drink suitable for vegan preferences without compromising the creamy texture.
- → What type of coffee works best for this drink?
Strong brewed espresso is recommended for a bold flavor, but cold brew or regular coffee can be used as a milder alternative.
- → How should the layers be assembled for best presentation?
Fill glasses with ice, drizzle caramel brulée sauce inside, pour matcha mixture over ice, then carefully add cooled espresso. Sprinkle spices on top and garnish as desired.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
This beverage contains dairy from milk and butter; verify ingredients if allergies are a concern, and consider suitable substitutes for caramel sauce and toppings.