Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake

If you’re craving something sweet, cold, and totally indulgent, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake. It’s the kind of treat that makes you pause after the first sip, eyes wide, wondering how something can taste this good. A perfect blend of coffee, creamy Nutella, and rich caramel, finished off with a mountain of whipped cream and a drizzle that dreams are made of.

Behind the Recipe

This shake was born out of one of those late-afternoon cravings, the kind that whispers, “you need coffee,” but also “you deserve dessert.” A little Nutella here, a splash of caramel there, and before I knew it, I had blended my two favorite things into one ridiculously good glass. It’s a pick-me-up and a treat all in one, and it quickly became a go-to for when I need a reward after a long day.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While coffee shakes have been around forever, this Nutella-spiked version is a modern twist inspired by European café culture. Nutella, created in Italy, has been a global favorite since the 1960s, and combining it with coffee taps into the rich traditions of mocha and affogato. Add caramel, and you’ve got a mashup that spans cultures and brings pure joy.

Why You’ll Love Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake

There’s so much to adore about this shake, whether you’re a coffee lover or just here for the chocolatey vibes.

Versatile: Swap the coffee for decaf, almond milk, or even a splash of Irish cream creamer for a twist.
Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients are pantry staples, and you can stretch them for multiple servings.
Quick and Easy: Blend, pour, top, and sip. You’ll be done in five minutes flat.
Customizable: Add ice cream for extra indulgence or use non-dairy options to suit your needs.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunches, parties, or just treating yourself. Everyone loves it.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Mix the shake base ahead and store it chilled, just shake before serving.
Great for Leftovers: If you’ve got leftover coffee, this is the best way to use it up.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Let me tell you, this shake can go from good to unforgettable with a few easy tricks.

• Use chilled coffee to prevent ice from melting too fast and watering down the shake.
• Blend the Nutella with warm coffee first to fully incorporate it before adding ice.
• For extra thickness, toss in a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen banana.
• Top with cold whipped cream right before serving to keep it fluffy and fresh.
• Drizzle caramel inside the glass before pouring for a swirl effect and flavor burst.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy gear for this one, just the basics will do.

Blender: To create that ultra-smooth shake texture.
Measuring cups/spoons: For getting the coffee-to-Nutella ratio just right.
Tall glass or mason jar: To serve and show off those dreamy layers.
Spoon or straw: To scoop, stir, or sip every last drop.

Ingredients in Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake

This shake is all about that silky, chocolatey, coffee-rich harmony. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together.

1. Brewed Coffee: 1 cup, cooled. This adds the bold backbone and depth.
2. Milk: 1/2 cup. Use any kind you like for creaminess.
3. Nutella: 3 tablespoons. The star ingredient for that hazelnut-chocolate punch.
4. Caramel Sauce: 2 tablespoons. Adds rich, buttery sweetness.
5. Ice Cubes: 1 cup. Keeps everything chilled and frothy.
6. Whipped Cream: For topping. Adds cloud-like texture and a fun finish.
7. Chocolate Syrup or Extra Caramel: For garnish, because we eat with our eyes first.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need a few swaps? No problem.

Milk: Almond, oat, or coconut milk.
Nutella: Any chocolate hazelnut spread or even peanut butter for a twist.
Caramel Sauce: Maple syrup or dulce de leche.
Coffee: Decaf or cold brew concentrate.
Whipped Cream: Coconut whipped topping or omit entirely.

Ingredient Spotlight

Nutella: Creamy, chocolatey, and subtly nutty, Nutella gives this shake its dessert-like decadence.

Caramel Sauce: Smooth and buttery, it deepens the sweetness and pairs beautifully with the coffee.

Instructions for Making Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake

This part’s as fun as the first sip. Let’s walk through it together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   No preheating here, but make sure your blender is clean and ready to go.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In the blender, add the cooled coffee, milk, Nutella, caramel sauce, and ice cubes. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Grab a tall glass. Optional but encouraged: drizzle some caramel or chocolate syrup around the inside walls for extra flair.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Pour the shake into the prepared glass. Don’t forget to admire those swirls.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   No cooking, just give it a final blend if it looks too thick or add ice to thicken if too runny.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Top with whipped cream and a generous drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Insert a straw, grab a spoon, and sip into your sweet coffee escape.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This shake hits you with silky, creamy bliss from the first sip. The Nutella adds a nutty depth, the coffee keeps it bold, and the caramel gives you a buttery finish. With whipped cream on top, you get that soft, airy contrast that makes every sip feel special.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Let’s make sure every shake is your best one yet.

• Use frozen coffee cubes for an ultra-chilled version.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to balance sweetness.
• If using plant milk, choose creamier versions like oat or cashew.

What to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to keep your shake perfect.

• Hot coffee: It’ll melt the ice and ruin the texture.
• Too much ice: It can dull the flavors and make the shake too watery.
• Skipping the blend time: Let it go for at least 30 seconds for that smooth finish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 1
Calories per serving: 420
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can blend the base ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake or re-blend before serving. Whipped cream should be added right before drinking for the best texture. You can also freeze in an ice tray and re-blend as needed.

How to Serve Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake

Serve in a tall glass with a straw and spoon. For a little drama, drizzle the inside of the glass with caramel and dust with a bit of cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts on top.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you’ve got leftovers, freeze them into ice cube trays. Use them later in a blender with a splash of milk to make a frappe-style treat. You can also pour into popsicle molds for frozen coffee pops.

Additional Tips

• Chill your glass before pouring the shake for a longer-lasting frosty feel.
• Blend on high for a fluffier texture.
• Want it thicker? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation counts, especially if you’re sharing this shake on social media or serving guests. Try a chocolate or caramel rim on the glass, use a clear mug to show off layers, and pile on the whipped cream sky-high.

Variations to Try

• Mocha Banana: Add half a frozen banana for extra body and sweetness.
• Spicy Mocha: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warm kick.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Swap Nutella for peanut butter and chocolate syrup.
• Vanilla Bean Dream: Use vanilla coffee and skip the caramel for a lighter take.
• Oreo Mocha Shake: Blend in crushed Oreos for a cookies and cream coffee vibe.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed?
Yes, just dissolve 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of cold water.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free milk and whipped topping.

Q3: Can I use a milk frother or immersion blender?
Yes, but it may not be as smooth as a full blender.

Q4: Can I skip the caramel?
You can, but it adds that rich buttery depth that pairs beautifully with Nutella.

Q5: Can I use cold brew?
Definitely. It’s a great smooth option for this shake.

Q6: How do I make it thicker?
Add less milk or toss in a scoop of ice cream.

Q7: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, blend the base and store it for up to 24 hours.

Q8: Is it very sweet?
It’s indulgent, but you can adjust sweetness by reducing caramel or Nutella.

Q9: What kind of caramel sauce should I use?
Any store-bought or homemade works, just make sure it’s pourable.

Q10: Can kids drink this?
If using decaf, yes! Or skip the coffee entirely.

Conclusion

This Caramel Nutella Coffee Shake is the kind of treat that turns a regular day into something special. It’s a glass full of joy, packed with creamy, sweet, and bold flavors that dance together perfectly. Trust me, you’re going to love this one. Whether it’s your new summer sip or an afternoon treat, it’s worth every drop.

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