This Salted Caramel Apple Milkshake tastes like a fall carnival treat blended into a creamy, dreamy dessert drink. With sweet apples, vanilla ice cream, cinnamon, and swirls of buttery salted caramel, every sip feels indulgent and cozy. It’s rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced between sweet apple flavor and warm spices with just the right touch of salty caramel.
The fresh apple adds brightness and natural sweetness, while the ice cream creates a luxurious, thick shake texture. A drizzle of caramel on the inside of the glass gives this shake that irresistible bakery-style swirl. Whether you’re craving an apple-pie-in-a-cup moment or looking for a festive treat for autumn gatherings, this milkshake delivers pure comfort and creamy bliss.
Serve it as a holiday dessert, a cozy-night-in treat, or a fun fall drink that tastes just like caramel apples from the fair — only better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
These simple ingredients create the signature caramel-apple flavor and velvety texture.
Apple: Use a sweet variety like Gala or Honeycrisp. Peel for smoother texture. Cooked apples or applesauce also work.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creates the creamy base. For lighter option, use frozen yogurt.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Adds rich sweetness. Store-bought or homemade both work. Use maple syrup for a lighter twist.
Milk: Thins the shake to perfect consistency. Any milk works — dairy or plant-based.
Cinnamon: Adds warm fall flavor. Optional nutmeg makes it deeper and cozier.
Whipped Cream: Optional, but highly recommended for that dessert-shop finish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Blender
- Peeler and knife (if using fresh apples)
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Serving glass
- Spoon for caramel drizzle
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Apple Pie Shake: Add a pinch of nutmeg and crumble a graham cracker on top.
- Caramel Espresso: Add a shot of espresso for a caramel apple latte shake.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter for a nutty caramel flavor.
- Maple Cinnamon: Swap caramel for maple syrup and extra cinnamon.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free ice cream and almond or oat milk.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Milkshake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium apple, peeled & chopped (or 1/2 cup applesauce)
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
- 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 5 minutes — fast, festive, and delicious.
Step-By-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple
Peel and chop the apple. For extra smoothness and deeper flavor, microwave 1 minute to soften — optional but recommended.
2. Add to Blender
Add ice cream, milk, caramel sauce, apple, and cinnamon to blender.
3. Blend Smooth & Thick
Blend 30–45 seconds until creamy. Add more milk for a thinner shake or more ice cream for thicker.
4. Garnish the Glass
Drizzle caramel inside the serving glass for a beautiful swirl effect.
5. Pour & Serve
Pour milkshake into glass, top with whipped cream, an extra caramel drizzle, and a pinch of flaky salt if desired.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
- Chill your glass: Helps keep shake thick and cold.
- Use softened apples: Blends smoother than raw pieces.
- Add caramel last: Drizzle inside glass for that café-style look.
- Blend short time: Over-blending melts ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use dairy-free ice cream and oat or almond milk. Coconut milk also works for richness.
Can I make it without fresh apples?
Yes — substitute 1/2 cup applesauce for equally delicious results.
Can I make it ahead?
Best enjoyed fresh. If storing, freeze and re-blend with a splash of milk before serving.
Can I turn this into a caramel apple smoothie?
Yes — replace ice cream with frozen banana + yogurt and blend without caramel for a healthier version.