Is Starbucks Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino Coffee?
Starbucks’ coffee-based drinks are among the most beloved beverages of their vast product range. One particular favorite is the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino, a thick-and-creamy blend of coffee and sweet syrups topped with crunchy caramel whipped cream. At a first glance, it appears to be a coffee-based drink, however one may be surprised to know that it does not actually include coffee in its list of ingredients. Instead, the drink is made with a signature Frappuccino Crème base derived from double-strength coffee extract.
So, what does this double-strength coffee extract contain? It is roasted Starbucks-Blonde espresso beans that have been carefully brewed to draw out their boldest, smoothest, and most delicious elements. This extract is then blended with more Starbucks-brand ingredients such as its Frappuccino roast coffee and Arabica beans.
Those who are looking for added caffeine can combine the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino with a shot of espresso. Moreover, caffeine can also be added to the beverage by taking a double shot of espresso and adding only a few pumps of the Frappuccino syrup. This trick is commonly used by caffeine-conscious customers who cannot find an acceptable mix between their cravings for sweet, creamy Frappuccino drinks, and their need for the right amount of caffeine.
Overall, the consensus is that the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino does not contain coffee per se, but that it does have a great flavor that resembles that of coffee, along with the robust aroma of espresso. Its ingredients all are of Starbucks’ own brand, so it can be deduced that it has the same level of quality as strong brewed coffee. Furthermore, customers have the option of adding espresso if they so wish.
For those who are looking for a healthy and decaffeinated summer treat, this Frappuccino is a great option. Ultimately, it may not contain actual coffee, but its flavor and aroma surely live up to Starbucks’ high standards.
Where Does the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino Come From?
The Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino was introduced by Starbucks in 2016 as one of their new blended drinks. It was not just another everyone-has-it flavor but was the first Frappuccino blended creme base of its kind with the original caramel ribbon crunch syrup. In 2019, the original syrup was given a makeover and transformed into the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Topping, which is made from sugar and a mixture of baking spices.
The Frappuccino has remained an ever-popular choice among customers, being one of the most sold Starbucks drinks on the menu. It has been described as a dreamy, creamy, and decadent delight for those with a sweet tooth.
It is the perfect balance of the familiar caramel flavor combined with the crunchy elements of the topping, which makes it a tasty and satisfying experience worth trying. The combination of ingredients creates a great flavor profile that is both almost too sweet and surprisingly light.
What Are Its Qualities?
The Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino is a great beverage to enjoy during hot summer days when it’s just too warm to make coffee. It is similar to a milkshake and has a smooth, sweet, creamy, and delightfully thick consistency. Its topping adds a contrasting crunchy element that, when combined, creates a unique and incredibly tasty drink.
This Frappuccino is also quite popular because of its aesthetic qualities. Its creamy golden color and crunchy topping create an inviting and appetizing appearance.
The drink is also low in calories and fat, and it does not contain any artificial flavorings, which is why it can be enjoyed by most types of customers, regardless of dietary requirements.
What Is Inside Its Ingredients?
The ingredients used in the Caramel Ribbon Frappuccino are all quality items from the Starbucks brand. The Frappuccino roast coffee is blended with the Classic syrup, a mix of the Caramel Ribbon Crunch topping and the Frappuccino Crème base. The latter contains corn syrup, water, cellulose gum and gums such as xanthan, guar, and carrageenan, which hold the ingredients together to create its thick and creamy texture.
The topping is also made with Starbucks’ signature Caramel Ribbon Crunch syrup and baking spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The crunchy ingredients come from sugar, wheat flour, autolyzed yeast, and sunflower oil, which all provide added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for a 16 fl oz Grande serving of the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino lists its calorie count at 290 and its fat content of 11 grams. The drink contains no cholesterol and 3 grams of saturated fat. Additionally, it is low in sodium and has 43 grams of Total Carbohydrates. The protein content is relatively low, with only 3 grams per serving.
The Caramel Ribbon Frappuccino cream-based drink is also low in carbohydrates, with 15.5 grams per serving. It contains 28.5 grams of sugars, as well as 190 milligrams of caffeine. Overall, it is a surprisingly low-calorie and low-fat treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Customer Reviews
Reviews for the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino from customers have overall been very positive. Its sweet and honey-like flavor have been highlighted as enjoyable, as well as its crunchy texture, which is a stark contrast to the drink’s creamy consistency. Additionally, its refreshing, light taste has been particularly praised by customers with a sweet tooth who are looking for a healthier alternative to sugary drinks from Starbucks.
Negative feedback has been given mostly due to the drink’s lack of caffeine, which some customers feel adversely affects its overall flavor. Additionally, the calories-per-serving of the drink may deter some customers, due to its comparatively high count when compared to other Frappuccinos.
Health Benefits
Despite its calorie count, the Caramel Ribbon Frappuccino contains a few health benefits, mainly due to its signature double-strength coffee extract. This contains antioxidants which help to fight against free radicals that cause damage to your body’s cells. Additionally, the drink contains a significant amount of calcium due to the milk used, which can help fix bone fractures, reduce the risk of osteoporosis and protect the teeth.
In terms of flavor, it is light and fruity, with its caramel tones providing a subtle sweetness. The caffeine content of the drink is moderate, which allows for both a refreshing boost and a sweet and creamy beverage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino from Starbucks does not contain any actual coffee, but has the robust aroma and flavor of espresso. Customers can make the drink more caffeine-oriented by adding a shot of espresso or a double shot of the Frappuccino syrup. The drinks flavor and crunchy topping are particularly desired by customers, who also admire its calorie- and fat-content.
