If you’ve ever indulged in a caramel latte or drizzled warm caramel sauce over your favorite dessert, you know just how irresistible the sweet and buttery flavor can be. And when it comes to caramel sauces, Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is one of the most popular choices out there. This rich and velvety sauce has become a staple for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce so special, how you can use it, and answer some frequently asked questions about this delicious treat.
What is Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce?
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is a slightly bittersweet caramel sauce that’s perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor to your favorite treats. It’s made with high-quality ingredients, including real sugar, butter, and cream, resulting in a decadent and smooth texture that pairs well with everything from coffee drinks to ice cream sundaes.
How to Use Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce?
One of the best things about Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is its versatility. Here are some of the ways you can use it:
1. In Coffee Drinks
Add a drizzle of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce to your morning cup of coffee or latte and elevate the flavor profile. You can also use it to make homemade frappuccinos by blending espresso, milk, ice, and a generous amount of caramel sauce.
2. On Top of Ice Cream
Warm up the sauce and pour it over your favorite ice cream flavors for a decadent dessert. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a sweet and salty balance.
3. In Baked Goods
Use Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce as a filling for cupcakes, donuts, or cakes. Mix it into the frosting for an extra-rich and indulgent treat.
4. In Cocktails
Add a splash of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce to your favorite cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or Irish Coffee, for a sweet and boozy twist.
Related article:
What Almond Milk Does Starbucks Use?
What Makes Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce Stand Out?
While there are many caramel sauces out there, Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce sets itself apart with its unique flavor profile. The sauce has a slightly bitter note that balances out the sweetness, making it a more sophisticated choice than other overly sugary caramel sauces on the market.
Additionally, Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is made with high-quality ingredients, including real cream and butter, resulting in a velvety texture that’s unmatched by cheaper alternatives. It’s also gluten-free and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.
What Kind of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce?
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is available in two varieties: regular and sugar-free. The regular variety contains real sugar, while the sugar-free version is sweetened with stevia extract. Both varieties are equally delicious and offer a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for elevating your favorite beverages and desserts.
Where to Buy Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce?
If you’re craving a bottle of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce, you can buy it online from the Starbucks website or through various online retailers like Amazon. You can also find it at select Starbucks locations around the world.
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce vs Caramel Syrup:
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce and caramel syrup are both sweet and buttery, but there are some key differences between the two. The main difference is in the flavor profile. While caramel syrup is sweeter and more sugary, Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce has a slightly bittersweet note that makes it a more sophisticated choice for coffee drinks and desserts.
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce Uses
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce can be used in a variety of ways. It’s an excellent topping for ice cream, yogurt, and other desserts. You can also use it to add flavor to coffee drinks like mochas and lattes or mix it into milkshakes or smoothies for a sweet and creamy treat.
Calories
One tablespoon of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce contains 70 calories and 6 grams of sugar.
Nutrition
One tablespoon of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce contains 70 calories, 6 grams of sugar, 3.5 grams of fat (2.3 grams saturated fat), and 0 milligrams of sodium.
Benefits
While it’s not health food, using Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce in moderation can enhance the flavor of your favorite treats while providing some additional nutrients. The sauce is made with real cream and butter, which provide calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals.
How to Make Your Own Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce at Home?
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own version of Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil.
- Cook the mixture until it turns a deep amber color, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take around 10 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and add the butter, stirring until it has melted and combined with the caramel mixture.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously.
- Add the vanilla extract and sea salt and stir until everything is well combined.
- Let the sauce cool down to room temperature before transferring it to a jar or bottle.
How is Dark Caramel Sauce Used at Starbucks?
At Starbucks, dark caramel sauce is used primarily as a drizzle for drinks and desserts. Some popular menu items that feature dark caramel sauce include:
- Caramel Macchiato
- Caramel Frappuccino
- Iced Caramel Cloud Macchiato
- Caramel Brulee Latte
- Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino
- Caramelized Honey Latte
In addition to these drinks, dark caramel sauce can also be added to hot chocolate, milkshakes, and even oatmeal or yogurt bowls for a decadent touch.
Making Your Own Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce
Want to enjoy the rich, luxurious taste of dark caramel sauce without having to leave your house? Look no further than this simple recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
- Cook the mixture, swirling occasionally, until it turns a deep amber color.
- Remove the pan from the heat and add in the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up.
- Whisk everything together until smooth and combined.
- Allow the sauce to cool before using.
- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Fun Recipes to Try with Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce
Looking for some inspiration on how to use your homemade or store-bought dark caramel sauce? Here are a few fun ideas:
Dark Caramel Sauce Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus required ingredients)
- 1/2 cup dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Drizzle the dark caramel sauce over the top of the brownie batter.
- Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the caramel into the batter.
- Bake the brownies according to the package directions.
- Allow them to cool before slicing and serving.
Dark Caramel Sauce Latte
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon dark caramel sauce
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew a shot of espresso and set it aside.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium-high heat until it begins to steam.
- Pour the steamed milk into a blender and add in the dark caramel sauce.
- Blend everything together until smooth and frothy.
- Pour the mixture into a large mug and add in the espresso shot.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
Other Starbucks Sauces
Here are 5 flavorful Starbucks sauces you can try:
Dark Caramel Mocha Sauce:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the dark chocolate and cream over medium-low heat until melted. Stir in the dark caramel sauce and mix until combined. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Dark Caramel White Chocolate Mocha Sauce:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the white chocolate and cream over medium-low heat until melted. Stir in the dark caramel sauce and mix until combined. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Dark Caramel Hazelnut Syrup:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup hazelnut syrup
- 3 tablespoons dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the hazelnut syrup and dark caramel sauce. Stir until combined. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Dark Caramel Vanilla Syrup:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vanilla syrup
- 3 tablespoons dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the vanilla syrup and dark caramel sauce. Stir until combined. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Dark Caramel White Chocolate Mocha Sauce:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons dark caramel sauce
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the white chocolate and cream over medium-low heat until melted. Stir in the dark caramel sauce and mix until combined. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
FAQs About Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce
Q: Is Starbucks dark caramel sauce vegan?
A: Unfortunately, no. The sauce contains butter, making it unsuitable for a vegan diet.
Q: Is Starbucks dark caramel sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes! All of their syrups are gluten-free, meaning that those with a gluten intolerance or allergy can still enjoy the deliciousness of dark caramel sauce.
Q: How many calories are in a serving of Starbucks dark caramel sauce?
A: A single 2-tablespoon serving contains 70 calories.
Q: Does Starbucks dark caramel sauce contain dairy?
A: Yes, it does contain dairy in the form of butter and heavy cream. However, there are several vegan-friendly alternatives available from Starbucks that can be used as a substitute.
Q: Is dark caramel sauce the same as dulce de leche?
A: While they are similar in terms of flavor profile and texture, they are not the same. Dulce de leche is made with condensed milk while dark caramel sauce is made with just sugar and water.
Conclusion
Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is a decadent addition to any coffee drink or dessert. Its unique flavor and velvety texture set it apart from other caramel sauces on the market. Whether you’re using it to enhance your morning cup of coffee, top off your favorite ice cream sundae, or add an extra layer of flavor to your baked goods, Starbucks Dark Caramel Sauce is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
I’m Kara Chavez, and I love coffee. I like to create some of the best coffees around – espressos, lattes, macchiatos – you name it. I strive for perfection in my coffee-making skills, and I take great pride in providing a delicious cup of joe to my customers.
I’ve been working in the coffee industry for years now, and I know everything there is to know about making a perfect cup of coffee. My passion for coffee shines through in every cup that I make, and I hope that you’ll stop by soon so that I can share my love of coffee with you!
thank you for the information