If you love a smooth, creamy, slightly nutty cold brew with a touch of maple sweetness, this one’s for you.
The brown butter adds a cozy, toasty richness that makes this drink taste like a fancy coffee shop treat—but it’s super easy to make at home.
Perfect for slow mornings, busy afternoons, or just because you deserve something delicious. Let’s do this!
What You’ll Need
Cold Brew
- 2 cups cold brew coffee, pre-made or store-bought
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or to taste)
- Ice cubes
Brown Butter Foam
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Pro Tips
☕ Use high-quality coffee – A smooth, low-acid cold brew works best. Avoid overly bitter coffee.
🧈 Don’t burn the butter – Keep a close eye while browning to avoid a burnt taste.
🥄 Adjust sweetness – Add more or less maple syrup depending on your preference.
💨 Whip the cream just right – Soft peaks will give you the best frothy texture.
❄️ Chill everything – Using cold ingredients helps keep your drink icy and refreshing.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or milk frother
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Tall glass
- Spoon
Substitutions & Variations
🌿 Dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and brown vegan butter.
🍁 No maple syrup? Try honey or vanilla syrup for a different but delicious twist.
⚡ Extra caffeine kick? Add a shot of espresso for a stronger flavor.
🍦 Sweeter & creamier? Blend the brown butter foam with a splash of sweetened condensed milk.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cold brew can be prepped days in advance – Store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Brown butter can be made ahead – Keep it in the fridge and reheat slightly before mixing.
- Foam stays fresh for a few hours – Whip it and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
How to Make It
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir until it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Brown Butter Foam
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk or froth until soft peaks form.
Step 3: Sweeten the Cold Brew
Pour the cold brew into a tall glass filled with ice. Stir in maple syrup to taste.
Step 4: Top with Brown Butter Foam
Spoon the brown butter foam over the cold brew, letting it float on top for a creamy, layered effect.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Give it a gentle stir to mix or sip as is for a layered experience.
Leftovers & Storage
- Cold brew stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
- Brown butter foam is best fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Re-whip before using.
- Brown butter itself lasts up to a week in the fridge—just reheat gently before making foam.
Wrap-Up
That’s it! A ridiculously good, coffeehouse-worthy drink you can make at home. The nutty brown butter, sweet maple, and smooth cold brew are an unbeatable combo. Try it, tweak it to your taste, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Happy sipping! ☕🍁✨
