In my book, Surviving Unemployment Devotions To Go, I talk about making “knock-offs” of restaurant items. You may wonder if I still do that now that my husband is no longer unemployed.  Yep, I certainly do. And I’m going to share one of those knock-offs with you. Fun, huh?

Now, many of you may love Starbucks for their coffee. I don’t. What I love is their Caramel Apple Spice. To. Die. For. But, it’s too expensive to purchase every time I crave one.  What’s a girl to do? Shoot, make her own at home that’s what!

I take one envelope of instant Spiced Apple Cider and add some caramel sundae syrup. Yes, it’s the kind you put on ice cream. I then add about 8 ounces of hot water.  Sometimes I add a dash of cinnamon.  After a little stirring, I add whipped cream and drizzle with more caramel syrup. After taking a sip I say, “ Starbucks who? ”

How economical is this? Let’s tally.

10 packets of Spiced Apple Cider                  $1.88

Caramel Syrup                                                       $3.29

Whipped Cream                                                    $1.97

So for under $8 I can make 10 Mari’s Spiced Caramel Apple Cider. I couldn’t even get 3 of these at Starbucks for $8. And, I can enjoy it whenever I want. There’s no price tag for that!

Quick, easy, frugally elegant! Try your own “knock-off”. Discover the beauty of being able to enjoy your favorite treat, on a whim, in the comfort of your own home.