Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

Millie Pham

If you love Starbucks’ Salted Caramel Mocha, you’re in for a treat!

This homemade version is just as cozy, rich, and satisfying—but even better because you can make it right at home.

It’s a perfect balance of chocolatey mocha, smooth espresso, and sweet-salty caramel goodness.

Plus, it’s super easy to make with ingredients you probably already have.

Whether you’re sipping this on a chilly morning or treating yourself in the afternoon, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk (whole or your favorite alternative)
  • ½ cup strong brewed coffee (or 1–2 shots of espresso)
  • 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
  • 1 tbsp caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp sea salt (plus more for topping)
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (for topping)
  • Optional: chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish)

Tools:

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Coffee maker or espresso machine
  • Mug
  • Measuring spoons & cups
Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

Pro Tips

Use strong coffee! If you don’t have an espresso machine, just brew your coffee extra strong.

🍫 High-quality chocolate syrup makes a difference. Look for one with real cocoa for the richest flavor.

🧂 The salt is key! Don’t skip the sprinkle of sea salt on top—it brings out all the caramel goodness.

🌿 Make it dairy-free. Swap in almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a non-dairy whipped topping.

🌀 Froth your milk for café vibes. If you don’t have a milk frother, just shake warm milk in a jar for a few seconds.

How to Make It

1. Heat the Milk

Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling. Whisk occasionally.

2. Stir in Chocolate & Caramel

Whisk in the chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, sugar, vanilla, and sea salt. Keep stirring until smooth and well blended.

Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

3. Brew the Coffee

While the milk mixture is warming, brew ½ cup of strong coffee or pull 1–2 shots of espresso.

Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

4. Combine the Coffee and Milk Mixture

Pour the brewed coffee into a large mug, then slowly stir in the warm chocolate-caramel milk mixture.

Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

5. Top & Garnish

Finish with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Add chocolate shavings if you want to be extra fancy!

Starbucks Copycat Salted Caramel Mocha

Substitutions & Variations

Make it iced! Let the coffee and milk mixture cool, then pour over ice.
🍫 Extra chocolatey? Add an extra tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder.
🥛 Different milk options: Try oat, almond, or coconut milk for a twist.
More caffeine? Add an extra shot of espresso!

Leftovers & Storage

This drink is best fresh, but you can store the milk mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and add fresh coffee!

Time to Enjoy!

There you have it—your own Starbucks-style Salted Caramel Mocha made right at home! It’s warm, chocolatey, and perfectly sweet with a salty kick. Let me know in the comments if you tried this recipe or if you have any fun twists of your own. Enjoy every sip! ☕💛

Hi there! I'm Millie Pham, a devoted brewer and tea lover at heart. As the founder of Bean Leaf Cup, my mission is to share my tea and coffee expertise with you all. I firmly believe that creating a fantastic cup of tea or coffee should be easy for everyone. No matter if you're already a coffee or tea expert or just beginning your journey, I'm here to help you navigate the world of brewing. Welcome aboard!