☕ Brown Butter Maple Cold Brew
Nutty, rich, and sweet – a cozy twist on iced coffee perfection
Hello, Kristine here again!
If there’s one thing I can’t resist, it’s taking a classic drink and turning it into something a little more special—without making it complicated. That’s exactly how this Brown Butter Maple Cold Brew came to life. Inspired by cozy fall mornings and slow weekend brunches, this dreamy cold brew drink blends the deep flavors of caramelized brown butter with the natural sweetness of maple syrup.
What I love most? It’s an indulgent experience that feels like a treat, yet it’s so simple to whip up at home. Whether you're a cold brew regular or just someone who loves a toasty flavor in their coffee, this drink checks every box. Let’s get brewing!
🍁 What Makes This Drink Special?
Brown butter adds a warm, nutty richness that you simply can’t get from cream or syrups alone. When combined with pure maple syrup and cold brew, the result is a deeply flavorful, slightly sweet coffee that feels like your favorite sweater in a glass.
It’s perfect for:
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Morning routines when you want something extra
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Cozy coffee moments on the porch
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An iced coffee upgrade without artificial flavoring
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Impressing guests with a barista-level beverage
🧾 Ingredients
Makes 1 large serving (about 16 oz or 475 ml)
For the Brown Butter Syrup:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp pure maple syrup
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1 tbsp heavy cream or half-and-half
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Pinch of sea salt
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¼ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the Cold Brew Drink:
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¾ cup cold brew coffee (homemade or store-bought)
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½ cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, etc.)
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2 tbsp brown butter maple syrup (or more to taste)
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Ice cubes
🧑🍳 How to Make Brown Butter Maple Cold Brew
🔸 Step 1: Brown the Butter
• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Stir constantly. After 3–5 minutes, you’ll notice golden flecks and a nutty aroma—that’s when it’s perfectly browned.
• Immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
🔸 Step 2: Make the Brown Butter Maple Syrup
• While the butter is still warm, stir in the maple syrup, cream, sea salt, and vanilla (if using).
• Mix until smooth and emulsified.
• Let the syrup cool slightly before using.
📝 Kristine's Tip: You can double or triple the syrup recipe and keep it refrigerated for up to 1 week. It thickens as it chills, so warm it slightly before use.
🔸 Step 3: Assemble the Cold Brew
• Fill a tall glass with ice.
• Pour in the cold brew coffee.
• Add milk and 2 tablespoons of the brown butter maple syrup.
• Stir gently or shake in a mason jar for a frothier texture.
🔸 Step 4: Garnish & Serve
• Optional but fun: top with cold foam, cinnamon, or a drizzle of leftover syrup.
• Serve immediately and sip slowly!
⚖️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~180 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 12g
Based on using whole milk and 2 tbsp syrup. Swap dairy-free options as needed.
☁️ Why Brown Butter?
Brown butter isn’t just melted butter—it’s butter taken to the next level. By gently cooking the milk solids, you unlock a nutty, caramel-like richness that elevates everything it touches. In this drink, it gives the maple syrup more body and transforms a regular iced coffee into something you’ll crave again and again.
🌿 Ingredient Substitutions
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Butter → Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
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Maple Syrup → Substitute with honey or agave, but real maple has unmatched depth.
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Milk → Oat milk complements the nuttiness, almond milk works great too.
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Cold Brew → Don’t have it? Brew strong coffee and chill it.
☕ Variations You’ll Love
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Brown Butter Maple Latte: Use espresso and steamed milk instead of cold brew and ice for a hot version.
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Salted Caramel Twist: Add a spoon of caramel syrup and a pinch more salt to bring out that sweet-savory flavor.
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Pumpkin Maple Cold Brew: Add 1 tbsp pumpkin purée and pumpkin spice into the syrup for an autumn upgrade.
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Whipped Topping: Make brown butter whipped cream and dollop on top!
💬 Kristine's FAQ Corner
Q: Can I store the brown butter syrup?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 7 days. Reheat gently before using.
Q: What milk works best?
Whole milk or oat milk give the creamiest texture. For a lighter version, try unsweetened almond milk.
Q: I don’t have cold brew—what can I use?
Make strong hot coffee (French press or drip), then chill it quickly in the fridge or over ice. Or try instant cold brew packets.
Q: Is this drink sweet?
It’s naturally sweet from maple syrup, but very customizable. Add more or less syrup to suit your taste.
🧊 How to Make Cold Brew at Home (Quick Guide)
If you want to make your own cold brew, here’s how:
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Combine 1 cup coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups cold filtered water.
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Stir, cover, and let it steep in the fridge for 12–18 hours.
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Strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
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Store in a jar for up to 1 week. Use as needed!
📌 Final Sip
If you’ve been looking for an iced coffee that feels indulgent, easy, and totally unforgettable, this is it. The warm nutty tones of brown butter blend beautifully with earthy maple and bold coffee. I hope you fall in love with it just like I did.
If you give this recipe a try, don’t forget to tag me or share a photo! I’d love to see your take on this brown butter magic.
With maple love and cozy vibes,
Kristine 💛
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