McDonald‘s Caramel Iced Coffee in 2024: A Sweet Yet Polarizing Menu Option

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

McDonald‘s first introduced caramel iced coffee back in 2015 to compete with other chains offering specialty iced coffee beverages. While not the most popular McCafe drink, it does have a cult following among those who enjoy the sweet, buttery flavor. Here‘s a deeper look at this menu offering going into 2023.

Background & Recipe Overview

McDonald‘s caramel iced coffee features the signature McDonald‘s house blend, made from 100% Arabica beans, crafted via automatic drip brewing. The hot coffee is then poured over ice along with 2% reduced fat milk and Torani brand caramel syrup, a popular barista flavoring, for a sweet and creamy iced beverage.

Initially launched in select U.S. regions in 2015, McDonald‘s caramel iced coffee first appeared nationally on menus around 2018. However, local availability still varies.

Nutrition Facts & Size Options

Caramel iced coffee nutritional information:

SizeCaloriesSugarCaffeine
Small (16 oz)140 calories17g sugar125mg
Medium (21 oz)190 calories23g sugar165mg
Large (32 oz)290 calories35g sugar250mg

Compared to a 16 oz Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato (190 calories, 30g sugar), McDonald‘s has slightly lower sugar content.

Pricing & Value Analysis

McDonald‘s prices their specialty iced coffees competitively:

SizePricePrice per fluid ounce
Small$2.39$0.15
Medium$2.89$0.14
Large$3.39$0.11

The large size offers the best value at only around 11 cents per ounce. This is comparable or even cheaper than other quick-service options.

Flavor, Reviews & Customizations

Reviews of the caramel iced coffee are polarized. Some enjoy the sweetness while others find it has an unpleasant burnt coffee aftertaste:

"It was like a coffee-flavored milkshake, super sweet and creamy."

"Way too sugary and fake tasting. Tasted burnt too despite all that caramel."

To cut down on sweetness, customers can request half or a quarter of the usual caramel pumps. Sugar-free caramel syrup may be available depending on location.

The Outlook?

While the caramel option makes for an indulgent, dessert-like beverage, it hasn‘t seen as much success as core McCafe offerings. In recent years, McDonald‘s has focused innovation on more premium, ‘hand-crafted‘ specialty drinks. Time will tell if caramel coffee maintains a permanent spot on the roster or fades into McDonald‘s beverage nostalgia.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

Similar Posts