It's the most wonderful time of the year...when Starbucks has those delicious, limited-time-only seasonal drinks that I crave at all
other times of the year. One of them is their
Caramel Apple Cider. Aside: Can someone please explain why this isn't on their drive-thru menu? I can never remember what it's officially called and mumble about apple cider-something-or-other-that's-not-coffee.
I discovered an at-home clone recipe from blogger and fellow mom from E's class,
Dixie Delights. I have literally been stalking this recipe since A first posted it, and I finally got around to making my own after spending approximately $793 buying them at Starbucks. My recipe ratios are just
slightly different, only because I just have apple juice boxes which are 6.75 oz each.
- 2 juice boxes (6.75 oz) of apple juice (I always use no sugar-added like
Apple & Eve)
- 4.5 - 5 pumps of
Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce syrup (BTW, had you any idea they sell these at their coffee shops...for $8?!?!)
1.5 tsp of caramel. I've been using a handy little tub of caramel sauce that came with pre-sliced apples ever since I became
maimed by that apple slicer. I'm not ashamed to admit I'm still afraid to use one right now.
But I digress.
In a small saucepan combine all ingredients and heat until just starting to bubble slightly. Pour into your favorite large mug and roll your eyes in pure bliss. It's
that good.