Tired of spending five dollars or more on your daily coffee shop fix? This Iced Caramel Macchiato recipe is the answer. It’s incredibly easy to make at home, gives you that perfect layered look, and tastes exactly like the one you crave.
The key to this classic drink is the layering technique resulting to a delicious, multi-layered coffee that looks just as good as it tastes.
Why This Homemade Macchiato is the Best
Affordable Luxury: You get the same rich, satisfying flavor for a fraction of the cost, making it the perfect daily treat.
The Perfect Layers: We teach you the exact layering technique that keeps the milk, espresso, and caramel distinct until you stir it.
No Fancy Equipment Needed: While espresso is best, we offer simple alternatives if you don’t own an espresso machine.
The Key Ingredients for Coffee Shop Quality
Don’t settle for less when it comes to the core components of your drink. Here is how to pick the best items:
Espresso: A true macchiato uses two shots of espresso. If you do not have an espresso machine, you can substitute with two ounces of very strong, dark-roast coffee brewed in a Moka pot or a Nespresso pod.
Milk: Use your favorite milk. Whole milk gives the creamiest texture and helps keep the layers separated longer. For a non-dairy option, oat milk is the best choice for its thickness and neutral flavor.
Vanilla Syrup: This is non-negotiable for the authentic taste. The syrup is mixed into the milk, not the espresso. Using a store bought syrup ensures easy mixing and a consistent flavor.
Caramel Sauce: Use a good quality, store bought caramel sauce that is thick enough to hold its shape for the beautiful drizzle on top and inside the cup.
How to Build the Perfect Layered Macchiato
The magic of the macchiato is in the order of assembly. Follow these simple steps for a photo worthy layered drink:
Drizzle the Glass: Drizzle the caramel sauce down the inside walls of your serving glass.
Build the Milk Layer: Fill the glass generously with ice. Next, pour cold milk into the glass until it reaches about three-quarters full.
Add Syrup: Pour the vanilla syrup into the milk. Since it is denser than the milk, it will settle slightly near the bottom.
Add the Espresso: Slowly pour the two shots of espresso directly over the ice. This will let the espresso sit on top of the cold milk layer.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, but highly recommended, top it off with whipped cream and drizzle with more caramel sauce. Serve immediately, instructing the drinker to stir well before drinking to combine all the delicious vanilla and caramel flavors.
Macchiato FAQs
Q: Why did my layers disappear instantly?
A: This usually happens if your milk wasn’t cold enough or if you poured the espresso too fast. Make sure your milk is straight from the fridge and pour the espresso very slowly.
Q: Can I use cold brew concentrate instead of espresso?
A: Yes, you can. Use about 2 ounces of cold brew concentrate. It will not have the same rich foam as espresso, but it is a good substitution.
Iced Caramel Macchiato
Ingredients
Method
- Drizzle the cup or glass with caramel sauce.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add milk to around 3/4 of the cup/glass.
- Add vanilla syrup.
- Add the espresso.
- Optional but highly recommended: Top it off with whipped cream and drizzle with more caramel sauce. Serve immediately.
