Salted caramel cream cold brew: Fall flavor meets SoCal sunshine

There's something exciting about the arrival of fall flavors. Coffee shops begin rolling out seasonal favorites, grocery store shelves fill with caramel and cinnamon treats, and we all start looking forward to cooler days.

The only problem? Southern California didn't get the memo.

When temperatures are still soaring well into September, an iced coffee often sounds much more appealing than a steaming mug. That's where this Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew comes in. It combines the rich, comforting flavors of fall with the refreshing chill that's perfect for our lingering summer heat.

Whether you're starting your morning, tackling an afternoon to-do list, or enjoying a quiet moment on the patio, this coffee is a simple way to welcome the season.

Ingredients

For the cold brew

• 1 cup cold brew coffee

• Ice

For the salted caramel cream

• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 tablespoon salted caramel syrup

• Pinch of flaky sea salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional garnish

• Caramel drizzle

• Extra flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the cold brew coffee.

2. In a small glass or milk frother, combine the heavy cream, milk, caramel syrup, vanilla, and sea salt.

3. Froth until thickened but still pourable.

4. Slowly pour the salted caramel cream over the cold brew.

5. Finish with a light drizzle of caramel and a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

6. Stir gently before enjoying.

Make it your own

One of the best things about this drink is how easy it is to customize.

Try:

• Oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version

• Sugar-free caramel syrup

• A dash of cinnamon

• Vanilla sweet cream instead of caramel

• Espresso instead of cold brew for a bolder flavor

Coffee shop quality at home

Making your favorite coffee at home is easier than you might think—and it can save both time and money. With just a handful of ingredients, you'll have a refreshing drink that's every bit as satisfying as one from your favorite café.

So while everyone else is reaching for pumpkin spice, we're embracing fall one iced coffee at a time.

— The Navigate Team