A rich, sweet, and velvety coffee drink, the Dutch Bros Caramelizer is a caramel lover’s dream come true. I like to think of it as a warm hug in a cup—perfectly balanced with bold espresso, creamy milk, and luscious caramel sauce. Whether I’m starting my morning or needing an afternoon lift, this drink always hits the spot.

Dutch Bros Caramelizer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to recreate this coffeehouse favorite at home. The Dutch Bros Caramelizer doesn’t require any fancy skills—just a few ingredients and a craving for comfort. It’s rich and creamy, with a deep caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with strong espresso. I’ve enjoyed it both hot and iced, and it never fails to impress friends during casual brunches or cozy chats. Plus, it’s easy to customize for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 shots freshly brewed espresso
1 cup whole milk or a dairy-free alternative (almond or oat milk)
2 tablespoons caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
1/4 cup whipped cream

Directions

I start by brewing two fresh shots of espresso. That rich, strong base is the heart of this drink.
Then I heat my milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming (but not boiling). If I want that foamy café finish, I use a milk frother.
I slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso. Watching the layers blend is a little joy in itself.
I stir in the caramel sauce gently to make sure it melts and blends completely with the espresso and milk.
I top the drink with a generous spoonful of whipped cream and a final drizzle of caramel sauce.
Lastly, I pour it into my favorite mug, sit back, and enjoy the richness of my homemade Caramelizer.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 1 drink (approx. 300ml)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

When I’m feeling adventurous, I switch things up a bit. Sometimes I add a splash of vanilla or hazelnut syrup for extra depth. For a dairy-free version, almond or oat milk works beautifully. I’ve even served it iced in the summer—just pour everything over ice after blending and skip the frothing.

storage/reheating

If I have any leftovers (which doesn’t happen often), I store the drink in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or pop it in the microwave for about 30–45 seconds. Just be sure to stir well before drinking.

FAQs

What makes the Dutch Bros Caramelizer so special?

I think it’s the balance of bold espresso with the smooth sweetness of caramel that makes this drink stand out. It’s simple but indulgent—like a dessert and a coffee all in one.

Can I make this drink dairy-free?

Absolutely. I often use oat milk or almond milk, and they froth up nicely too. Just swap the whipped cream for a non-dairy version, and it’s just as delicious.

How can I sweeten my Dutch Bros Caramelizer?

The caramel sauce does most of the sweetening, but I sometimes add a little flavored syrup or even a pinch of brown sugar if I’m in the mood for extra sweetness.

Can I make this iced?

Yes! I love it iced in the warmer months. Just skip the frothing step, pour everything over ice, and enjoy a chilled version of this cozy classic.

What’s the best coffee to use if I don’t have espresso?

When I’m out of espresso, I use very strong brewed coffee or a stovetop moka pot. It still gives me that bold, rich flavor the drink needs.

Conclusion

Bringing the Dutch Bros Caramelizer into my own kitchen was a game changer. It’s comforting, impressive, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m sharing it with friends or savoring it solo, it always feels like a treat. Now I don’t need a coffee shop run—I can sip this caramel masterpiece anytime I want.