Starbucks has always found a way to keep our taste buds tingling with anticipation for their next big thing. And for those of us with a sweet tooth and a penchant for cozy coffee moments, the Starbucks Churro Frappuccino has emerged as a delightful ode to both our caffeine fix and dessert cravings. If you haven’t had the chance to taste this magical concoction yet, or you’re simply looking to recreate the experience in your kitchen, you’re in luck!
The Starbucks Churro Frappuccino is a delicious and indulgent drink inspired by the flavors of a classic churro, a popular fried dough pastry often dusted with cinnamon sugar.
1/2 cup of whole milk: Substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
3 tablespoons of sugar: Adjust according to your taste.
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: For that hint of vanilla sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: Plus a bit more for garnishing.
A dollop of whipped cream: For the topping.
Caramel sauce: Optional for drizzling.
Cinnamon sticks: Optional for garnish and added flavor.
Instructions:
Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the ice, cold brew coffee, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the ice is completely crushed.
Assemble the Drink: Pour the blended mixture into a tall glass, leaving some room at the top for whipped cream.
Add the Toppings: Generously top the frappuccino with whipped cream. Sprinkle with a dash of ground cinnamon for that signature churro look and flavor. Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Garnish and Serve: If you’re using cinnamon sticks for garnish, now’s the time to add them. Serve with a straw and enjoy immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Starbucks Churro Frappuccino:
Coffee Strength Adjustment: If you prefer a stronger or milder coffee flavor, adjust the amount of cold brew coffee to suit your taste. Remember, the ice dilutes the flavor slightly, so you might want to make it slightly stronger than you’d normally drink.
Achieving the Right Consistency: The key to a great frappuccino is getting that smooth yet slightly icy texture. Start with the recommended amount of ice and blend well. If the mixture is too liquid, add a bit more ice until you achieve the desired consistency.
Customize Your Sweetness: The sugar amount suggested is a starting point. Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your cold brew, you might want to adjust it. Start with less sugar taste, and then add more if needed.
Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, not only should you substitute the milk, but also look for dairy-free whipped cream options, which are readily available in most supermarkets.
Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream and cinnamon are essential, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. A sprinkle of chocolate chips, a swirl of chocolate sauce, or even a dash of nutmeg can add an extra layer of flavor and make your frappuccino uniquely yours.
What to serve with
The Starbucks Churro Frappuccino is a delightful combination of sweetness, spice, and everything nice, making it a versatile beverage that pairs well with various snacks and treats. When considering what to serve alongside it, aim for items that complement its sweet cinnamon flavor without overpowering it. Here are some detailed recommendations:
Sweet Treats
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Light and fluffy donuts coated in a cinnamon-sugar mix echo the churro theme and pair perfectly with the spiced notes of the frappuccino.
Apple Turnovers: The slight tartness of the apple filling balances the sweetness of the drink, while the flaky pastry adds a satisfying texture contrast.
Vanilla Pound Cake: A slice of dense, buttery vanilla pound cake can add a rich element that beautifully contrasts the icy frappuccino. The simplicity of the cake allows the churro flavors to shine.
Nutella-Stuffed Croissants: For a more decadent pairing, the chocolate-hazelnut spread inside a crisp, buttery croissant complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the Frappuccino.
Savory Snacks
Cheese Quesadillas: A simple cheese quesadilla can be a surprisingly fitting companion if you prefer something savory. The cheese’s mild flavor and the tortilla’s comforting texture offer a great balance to the sweet drink.
Chips and Salsa: A light, crunchy snack like chips with tangy salsa offers a pleasant contrast and refreshes your palate between the sweet and creamy frappuccino sips.
Healthier Options
Fruit Skewers: A selection of fresh fruit skewers, perhaps featuring pineapple, mango, and berries, can add a refreshing and healthy touch to your snack spread. The fruit’s natural sweetness and acidity cut through the richness of the Frappuccino.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey, granola, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to mimic the flavors in the Frappuccino while adding a protein-packed element to your snack.
Dessert Pairings
Churros: Embrace the theme fully by serving the Frappuccino with actual churros, either homemade or store-bought. The combination of the drink and its namesake dessert perhaps leans towards the indulgent side, making it perfect for special occasions.
Caramel Flan: A silky, caramel-topped flan can bring a luxurious element to your pairing. Its creamy texture and caramel flavor will harmonize with the Churro Frappuccino’s profile.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating a Starbucks Churro Frappuccino at home allows you to tailor ingredients to suit dietary preferences, sensitivities, and tastes. Here’s a detailed look at alternatives for key ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
Base Ingredients Substitutes
Cold Brew Coffee
Decaf Coffee: If caffeine is a concern, use decaffeinated coffee.
Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee: For a deeper coffee flavor, substitute with an equivalent amount of espresso or a very strong batch of brewed coffee.
Coffee Substitute: For a completely caffeine-free version, consider chicory root coffee or a grain-based coffee substitute.
Whole Milk
Non-Dairy Milk: Almond, coconut, oat, or soy milk is great for those avoiding dairy. Each variety will add its own unique flavor and creaminess.
Lactose-Free Milk: This is for those who are lactose intolerant but prefer dairy.
Non-nutritive Sweeteners: Stevia or sucralose can be used to control calorie intake. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness level and conversion chart of the sweetener.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla Bean Paste: You can use an equivalent amount of vanilla bean for a more intense vanilla flavor with visible specks of vanilla bean paste.
Almond Extract: For a nutty twist, replace or mix half the amount of vanilla extract with almond extract.
Ground Cinnamon
Cinnamon Stick: If preferred, infuse the milk with a cinnamon stick during heating and remove it before blending. This provides a subtler cinnamon flavor.
Pumpkin Spice: Replace ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice mix for a fall-inspired version. This brings in notes of nutmeg and clove, complementing the churro theme.
Toppings Substitutes
Whipped Cream
Vegan Whipped Cream: There are several plant-based whipped creams available that are made from coconut or soy. Alternatively, you can whip chilled full-fat coconut milk with a bit of sugar.
Greek Yogurt: For a healthier topping, try a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of vanilla extract and honey.
Caramel Sauce
Sugar-Free Caramel: Use a sugar-free caramel sauce for a lower-calorie option.
Homemade Caramel: For a DIY approach free from preservatives, homemade caramel using sugar, butter, and cream can be made in advance.
Chocolate Sauce: For a different but still delicious flavor profile, substitute the caramel sauce with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Final Thoughts
Remember, making the Starbucks Churro Frappuccino at home is not just about following the recipe to the letter—it’s about infusing your day with a sprinkle of joy, a dash of creativity, and a whole lot of deliciousness.
Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the ice, cold brew coffee, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the ice is completely crushed.
Assemble the Drink: Pour the blended mixture into a tall glass, leaving some room at the top for whipped cream.
Add the Toppings: Generously top the frappuccino with whipped cream. Sprinkle with a dash of ground cinnamon for that signature churro look and flavor. Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Garnish and Serve: If you're using cinnamon sticks for garnish, now's the time to add them. Serve with a straw and enjoy immediately.
Meet Sandra, a bartender with a passion for mixology and storytelling. Born and raised in Miami, Sandra's fascination with flavors and spirits began at a young age, inspired by the vibrant culture of her hometown.
