Salted Maple Cold Brew

When warm weather hits or you’re craving a refreshing pick-me-up, cold brew coffee is often the drink of choice. Smooth, bold, and less acidic than hot-brewed coffee, it’s the perfect base for a variety of coffeehouse-style drinks. One of the most irresistible versions you can make at home is Salted Maple Cold Brew—a velvety, slightly sweet coffee infused with the richness of pure maple syrup and topped with a fluffy salted cream.

This drink is indulgent yet balanced. The natural sweetness of maple syrup complements the deep flavor of cold brew coffee, while a pinch of salt enhances every sip. Best of all, it’s easy to make in your own kitchen with just a few pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Better than coffee shop drinks: You get the same luxurious flavor without the high price tag.
Naturally sweetened: Maple syrup adds a rich, earthy sweetness that blends smoothly into cold brew.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, creaminess, and saltiness to your taste.
Easy prep: Once you have cold brew on hand, this comes together in just minutes.
Impressive presentation: The salted cream topping gives it café-style appeal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cold Brew:

1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
4 cups cold filtered water

For the Salted Maple Cream:

½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving:

Ice cubes
2–3 tablespoons maple syrup (to sweeten the coffee itself, adjust to taste)
Cold brew concentrate (from above)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cold Brew

Place coarsely ground coffee in a large jar or pitcher.
Add cold filtered water and stir to combine.
Cover and let steep in the refrigerator for 12–18 hours.
Strain through a coffee filter, fine mesh strainer, or cheesecloth.
Store cold brew concentrate in a sealed container for up to one week.

Step 2: Whip the Salted Maple Cream

In a small mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, maple syrup, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
Use a handheld frother, whisk, or electric mixer to whip until slightly thickened but still pourable. (It should resemble soft whipped cream, not stiff peaks.)
Taste and adjust salt if needed—the goal is a subtle saltiness that enhances sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Drink

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
Pour in ½–¾ cup cold brew concentrate (dilute with equal parts water or milk if desired).
Stir in 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup for sweetness.
Top with a generous layer of salted maple cream.
Optional: Dust with cinnamon or drizzle extra maple syrup on top for garnish.

Flavor Profile

What makes this drink so satisfying is the contrast of flavors and textures:

Bold & smooth coffee → provides the base.
Deep, caramel-like maple syrup → adds natural sweetness and a cozy autumnal vibe.
Salted cream topping → balances sweetness, adds richness, and creates a café-quality finish.

The first sip gives you salted cream, followed by smooth coffee infused with maple, for a layered drinking experience.

Tips for Success

Use quality coffee beans: A medium-dark roast works beautifully with maple.
Don’t over-salt: A pinch goes a long way—too much can overpower the drink.
Chill thoroughly: Cold brew is at its smoothest when steeped for at least 12 hours.
Control sweetness: Start with less maple syrup and adjust to your taste.
For dairy-free version: Use coconut cream or oat milk creamer for the topping.

Variations to Try

Iced Maple Latte: Replace half the cold brew with milk, add maple syrup, and top with whipped salted cream.
Cinnamon Maple Cold Brew: Stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
Vanilla Maple Cold Brew: Use vanilla bean paste in the cream for added depth.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder when blending the cold brew with maple syrup.
Extra Foamy: Froth the maple cream until airy for a light “cold foam” effect similar to popular coffee shop versions.

Health Benefits of Maple Syrup and Cold Brew

Maple syrup: Unlike refined sugar, pure maple syrup contains trace minerals like manganese and zinc, along with antioxidants.
Cold brew coffee: Naturally lower in acidity, making it gentler on the stomach. Provides a steady energy boost thanks to slow caffeine absorption.
Balanced sweetness: Since maple syrup is rich and flavorful, you often need less than regular sugar.

Pairing Ideas

This drink isn’t just for mornings—you can serve it alongside snacks or desserts:

Breakfast pastries: Cinnamon rolls, croissants, or muffins.
Savory brunch dishes: Egg scrambles, avocado toast, or veggie quiches.
Desserts: Shortbread cookies, chocolate brownies, or fruit tarts.
Afternoon snacks: Nuts, granola bars, or cheese platters.

The salted maple notes complement both sweet and savory foods beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cold brew concentrate: Stays fresh in the fridge up to one week.
Salted maple cream: Best when freshly whipped, but you can keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days (re-froth before using).
Batch prep: Make a pitcher of sweetened cold brew ahead of time and add cream topping when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought cold brew?
Yes! Ready-made cold brew works great if you don’t have time to brew your own.

What’s the best type of maple syrup?
Always choose 100% pure maple syrup. Grade A Dark (robust taste) works especially well for coffee drinks.

Is this drink very sweet?
Not overly. The salt in the cream balances the sweetness, and you can easily adjust the amount of maple syrup.

Can I make it hot?
Yes, simply heat the cold brew concentrate with water or milk, then top with salted maple cream.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Maple Cold Brew is the perfect blend of rich, smooth coffee, natural maple sweetness, and indulgent salted cream. It’s refreshing enough for summer, yet cozy enough for fall, making it a year-round favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can skip the café lines and craft a drink at home that looks and tastes like it came from a barista’s menu.

Whether you enjoy it on a quiet morning, serve it to guests at brunch, or use it as an afternoon energy boost, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every glass.

Easy & Quick Salted Maple Cold Brew