The Best Starbucks Brown Sugar Cold Foam Recipe

I think I speak for most of us when I say that we’re all trying to find ways to add a little joy in our lives. And most of the time, that starts with a morning coffee. No matter if it’s a workday or a weekend, that’s usually the first thing we reach for. So how can we make it even better?

With this new brown sugar cream cold foam! This creamy topping has a velvety texture and the perfect amount of caramel-like sweetness to satisfy your sweet tooth. Putting it on your cold coffees will make it taste like a luxurious treat that you paid a fraction of the cost for. And the best part is, it comes together effortlessly that even the most novice baristas can achieve.

Since you are here and love copycat recipes, check out this Starbucks Salted Cream Cold Foam Cold Brew, this Starbucks Salted Caramel Cold Foam Cold Brew Recipe, this Starbucks Chocolate Cream Cold Brew, or this Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.

Is cold foam just whipped milk?

No, cold foam is a mixture of milk, heavy cream, and sweetener that creates the perfect creamy cloud to top iced coffees.

Ingredients for this Copycat Starbucks Cold Foam Recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this easy brown sugar cold foam recipe with heavy cream. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Light Brown Sugar: adds a depth of sweetness that gives the cold foam its unique flavor.
• Hot Water: dissolves the brown sugar to create a smooth syrup base.
• Cold Heavy Cream: is the key ingredient that provides richness and the structure needed.
• 2% Milk: slightly lightens the texture of the foam to make it more pourable while still creamy. You can also use whole milk, nonfat milk, or whatever kind of milk you want.

What is the ratio for Starbucks cold foam?

The ratios for their cold foam are 3:2:1, cold cream, cold milk, and syrup. By knowing this ratio, you can make as large or as small a batch of cold foam as you want and still end up with the same result as them!

How to make Starbucks Brown Sugar Cold Foam Recipe at home

This is how you can make this homemade brown sugar cold foam for iced coffee drinks. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this page for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions! 

1. Combine the brown sugar and hot water in a small bowl or cup, stirring until the sugar dissolves. This creates a quick brown sugar syrup.
2. Combine milk and cold heavy whipping cream into the cup, then stir everything together until well blended.
3. Using a handheld milk frother, blender, or French press, froth milk mixture on high speed until it turns airy and creamy. Be careful not to overmix. It should be fluffy but still easy to pour.
4. Spoon or drizzle the foam over your favorite cold beverage. It’ll float on top like that perfect café-style finish.

How does Starbucks make cold foam?

Starbucks does pretty much the same thing, but in a larger batch and they usually blend it in a high-speed blender to froth it.

Tips and Tricks for the best results

• Let your syrup mixture cool before adding in the dairy ingredients.
• Keep your milk and cream cold until you’re about to froth. Cold ingredients whip better than room temperature.
• Don’t over-froth the Starbucks brown sugar cold foam and stop as soon as it’s thick and silky.
• If you’re using a French press, move the plunger up and down quickly for 20-30 seconds.

Why do you need to make this Starbucks original recipe?

• This easy recipe only requires basic steps and simple ingredients that probably already have on hand or can find in any grocery store.
• The blend of heavy cream and simple syrup together create an incredible combination and is the perfect addition for cold drinks.
• Save yourself time and money by skipping the long line at the coffee shops and enjoy this iced coffee drink topping in the comfort of your own home.
• Once you make it and take the first sip, you’ll be using it on plenty of iced coffees over and over again.
• Be your own Starbucks barista and make your own Starbucks drinks.

Frequently asked questions – Recipe FAQs

Can I use this brown sugar cold foam for cold brew coffee?

Yes absolutely! This cold foam tastes great and stays firm on any iced drink. You can use on top of a cold brew or cooled espresso drink, but also an iced chai, iced flat white, or on top of an iced brown sugar oatmilk shaken espresso.

What flavor alterations can I make?

• Use dark brown sugar and a pinch of salt for a deeper and more molasses-like salted caramel cream.
• Add in a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to this simple recipe for a holiday-theme pumpkin cream.
• Play around with different flavors using extracts like hazelnut or vanilla extract to create a homemade vanilla sweet cream cold foam.
• Switch out the brown sugar syrup for others like maple syrup, vanilla syrup, or honey. From my experience, you won’t need to add any hot water to those; just mix them directly with the milk and cream.

Can I make this brown sugar cold foam without heavy cream?

It’s not recommended because heavy cream is essential for the texture. If you’re worried about calories, try to find and use faux heavy cream alternatives that have emulsifiers that could firm up when whipped. But honestly, after trying lots of different variations, nothing beats heavy cream. Plus, that’s what Starbucks uses, too!

Can I make this a vegan cold foam with oat milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute both the low-fat milk and heavy cream with non-dairy options such as coconut cream mixed with oat, almond milk, or soy milk. Just make sure you get both a regular and an extra creamy version to substitute the heavy cream.

Where can I find an electric milk frother?

You can find an electric frother at a kitchen-specific store, generic department stores like Walmart or Target, or online from Amazon. If you can’t find one, an immersion blender or cocktail shaker should work as well.

How do I store my leftover cold foam?

Pour your leftover copycat Starbucks cold foam into an airtight container such as a mason jar and place it in the fridge. It should last for at least 3 or 4 days but you will have to froth it again before topping your cold brew with it.

The Best Starbucks Brown Sugar Cold Foam Recipe