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caramel macchiato recipe

Caramel Macchiato Recipe (Iced & Hot Copycat)

A creamy, sweet-meets-bitter caramel macchiato copycat recipe with vanilla-infused milk, smooth espresso, and rich caramel drizzle. Make this Starbucks favorite at home in just 10 minutes with 5 simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 Serving
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1-2 shots espresso or 1/3 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1 cup milk 2% or whole milk recommended
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
  • 2-3 tablespoons caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling
  • as needed ice cubes for iced version only
For Garnish
  • optional whipped cream
  • optional caramel drizzle
  • optional sea salt for salted caramel version

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Prepare Your Glass/Mug: For hot version, warm your mug by filling it with hot water for 30 seconds, then empty. For iced, fill your glass with ice about 2/3 full.
  1. Add Vanilla Syrup: Pour 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup into the bottom of your mug or glass. The vanilla forms the sweet foundation of the drink and should be the first layer.
  1. Add and Prepare Your Milk: Pour 1 cup of milk into your glass, leaving room at the top for espresso and foam. For hot version, heat your milk to about 150°F (steaming but not boiling) and froth until it has a velvety texture with small bubbles.
  1. Prepare Your Espresso: Brew 1-2 shots of espresso (about 1-2 oz). The espresso should be fresh and hot for both versions of the drink. If using brewed coffee instead, make it extra strong – about twice as strong as you'd normally drink it.
  1. Pour the Espresso: Gently pour the espresso over the milk. For the authentic Starbucks experience, pour it slowly over the back of a spoon to create distinct layers. The espresso should float on top of the milk before slowly integrating.
  1. Add Caramel Drizzle: Finish by drizzling caramel sauce in a crosshatch pattern on top of the drink. Be generous with the caramel – it's not just a garnish but an essential flavor component.
  1. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while the temperature contrast is perfect.