Sweet. Salty. Icy. And ridiculously good.
Hey, friend!
Okay, let’s talk about this Salted Caramel Pretzel Frappe.
It’s like your favorite coffee shop drink, but you made it at home in five minutes, in your pajamas, and didn’t pay $7 for it.
It’s cold, creamy, a little sweet, a little salty, with those crunchy bits of pretzel that surprise you in the best way.
I’ve made this one more times than I can count—it’s my go-to when I want a treat in the afternoon but also need a little caffeine kick.
You’re gonna love it.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 cup crushed pretzels (plus more for garnish)
- 1 1/2 cups ice
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, but amazing)
Why I Love This Recipe
This frappe is my not-so-guilty pleasure. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and indulgence.
- It’s ready in 5 minutes flat.
- The salty-sweet combo is chef’s kiss.
- No fancy equipment—just a blender.
- You can customize it a million ways.
Makes: 2 servings
Time: 5 minutes
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Salt + Sweet = magic: Salt enhances the caramel flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Crushed pretzels: They add texture and a toasty, nutty flavor.
- Cold brew + ice: Keeps the drink strong, not watered down.
Meal Plan Ideas
- Afternoon pick-me-up with a snack board
- Dessert drink after tacos or burgers
- Fancy coffee bar addition at brunch
Common Mistakes
- Using hot coffee – It’ll melt the ice and water everything down.
- Not crushing pretzels enough – You want small pieces, not chunks that clog the straw.
- Forgetting the pinch of salt – That little bit makes a big difference!
What to Serve With
- Chocolate chip cookies
- Breakfast sandwiches
- Vanilla scones
- Fresh fruit
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glass or mason jar
- Spoon for drizzling caramel
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk: Use oat milk, almond milk, or cream for a richer drink.
- Coffee: Try cold brew for extra smooth flavor.
- Pretzels: Swap with graham crackers or salty peanuts for a twist.
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan caramel.
Make Ahead Tips
- Brew coffee the night before and keep it chilled in the fridge.
- Pre-crush your pretzels and store in a jar for quick blending later.
Instructions
1. Brew and Cool the Coffee
Make 1 cup of your favorite coffee and let it cool completely.
2. Crush the Pretzels
Put pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or your hands until small bits (not dust!).
3. Add Everything to the Blender
In your blender, add 1 cup cooled coffee, 1/2 cup milk, 2 tbsp caramel sauce, 1/4 cup crushed pretzels, and 1 1/2 cups ice.
4. Blend Until Smooth
Blend for about 30 seconds, or until everything is creamy and smooth.
5. Pour and Garnish
Pour into glasses. Top with whipped cream, extra caramel, crushed pretzels, and a pinch of sea salt if you like.
Leftovers & Storage
Honestly, this one’s best fresh. If you have leftovers, store in the fridge and shake it up before drinking. It’ll lose a bit of texture, but the flavor’s still there!
FAQ
Can I make it without caffeine?
Yep! Use decaf coffee.
Is it super sweet?
You can control the sweetness by using less caramel. Start with 1 tbsp and taste.
Do I need whipped cream?
Not really, but it’s fun. It’s like the cherry on top!
You’ve Got This
I hope this becomes one of those “you gotta try this” recipes you pass along to your friends. It’s easy, impressive, and just hits the spot every time. If you make it, drop a comment and let me know how it went—or if you came up with your own twist!
