OMG, you guys, I just whipped up the most epic iced caramel macchiato at home, and it’s like a cafĂ©-level treat without the hefty price tag! This delightful concoction of vanilla, coffee, and caramel goodness is seriously the perfect pick-me-up on a lazy afternoon.
I love treating myself to an Iced Caramel Macchiato, a refreshing delight with a rich shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee. The smooth blend of vanilla syrup and creamy milk, finished with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce and optional whipped cream, creates a perfect balance of sweet and bold flavors.
Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe Ingredients
- Vanilla Syrup: Adds sweetness and flavor; primarily sugar-based for a sweet taste.
- Milk: Provides creaminess; a source of calcium and protein if dairy.
- Ice Cubes: Cools the drink; adds refreshing chill without altering taste.
- Espresso/Strong Coffee: Adds robust flavor and caffeine; can enhance alertness.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweetens with a rich buttery taste; primarily sugar-based.
Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 shot (about 1 ounce) espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
- Optional: whipped cream, for topping
- Optional: additional caramel sauce, for drizzling
How to Make this Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe
1. To start, pour in 2 tablespoons of vanilla syrup into a tall glass.
2. Pour 1 cup of milk into the glass. Combine with the vanilla syrup by stirring gently.
3. Ice cubes should be filled in the glass, to about 1 cup or to the top as desired.
4. Pour 1 shot of espresso or 1/4 cup of cooled, strong brewed coffee over the ice at a slow pace, letting it float on top of the milk.
5. Pour 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce around the inside edge of the glass. The sauce will drizzle down the sides of the glass, making it look lovely.
6. Top with whipped cream if you want.
7. If you want to add more sweetness, you can drizzle additional caramel sauce on the whipped cream.
8. Make haste to serve with a straw so you can stir and sip.
9. Savor your iced caramel macchiato as a cooling, restorative way to re-energize.
10. If needed, adjust the amount of caramel sauce to taste.
Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Tall glass
2. Measuring spoons (tablespoons)
3. Measuring cup
4. Spoon (for stirring)
5. Espresso machine or coffee brewer (for espresso/coffee)
6. Straw
FAQ
- Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative?Indeed, any non-dairy alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of the milk.
- What if I don’t have an espresso machine?A brewed coffee that is very strong can serve as an alternative. Just make it double-strength, and you will get the same bold flavor.
- Is there a way to make this beverage less sweet?Certainly! You have the option to lessen the quantity of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce to your preference.
- How can I make the drink vegan?Check that your caramel sauce is vegan, and use a plant-based milk. Many store-bought caramel sauces contain dairy, so be sure to choose a vegan-friendly brand.
- Can I prepare this drink in advance?Enjoy it fresh, but if you must, prepare your espresso or coffee and cool it ahead of time. Assemble the drink right before serving, and savor it at the moment when it might be at its best.
- Is whipped cream necessary in this recipe?You can skip the whipped cream if you want. It adds sweetness and creamy texture, but the drink tastes great on its own.
- How can I enhance the presentation?Drizzle more caramel sauce over the top of the whipped cream and ice to really make this thing pop.
Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Vanilla syrup: Replace with 2 tablespoons of clear syrup combined with vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon).
Milk: Employ oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk in place of traditional milk.
Espresso or brewed coffee: Use in their place 1 ounce of strong cold brew concentrate.
To make caramel sauce, use dulce de leche or a homemade caramel made from equal parts brown sugar and heavy cream, heated and mixed until smooth. Caramel sauce can be made using either of these methods.
Pro Tips
1. For an extra layer of flavor, try using a flavored whip cream, such as vanilla or caramel, to complement the drink and enhance its sweetness.
2. To create a visually appealing drink, pour the espresso over a spoon that is positioned just above the surface of the ice. This technique helps the espresso float as a distinct layer on top of the milk.
3. Chill your glass in the freezer before assembling the drink. This will help keep the beverage cold for longer and prevent the ice from melting too quickly, which can dilute the flavors.
4. Experiment with different types of vanilla syrup or even homemade vanilla syrup for a unique twist. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for an autumn-inspired flavor profile.
5. If using non-dairy milk, choose one that froths well, such as oat milk, to create a creamier texture and improve the overall mouthfeel of the drink.
Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe
My favorite Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Tall glass
2. Measuring spoons (tablespoons)
3. Measuring cup
4. Spoon (for stirring)
5. Espresso machine or coffee brewer (for espresso/coffee)
6. Straw
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 shot (about 1 ounce) espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
- Optional: whipped cream, for topping
- Optional: additional caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. To start, pour in 2 tablespoons of vanilla syrup into a tall glass.
2. Pour 1 cup of milk into the glass. Combine with the vanilla syrup by stirring gently.
3. Ice cubes should be filled in the glass, to about 1 cup or to the top as desired.
4. Pour 1 shot of espresso or 1/4 cup of cooled, strong brewed coffee over the ice at a slow pace, letting it float on top of the milk.
5. Pour 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce around the inside edge of the glass. The sauce will drizzle down the sides of the glass, making it look lovely.
6. Top with whipped cream if you want.
7. If you want to add more sweetness, you can drizzle additional caramel sauce on the whipped cream.
8. Make haste to serve with a straw so you can stir and sip.
9. Savor your iced caramel macchiato as a cooling, restorative way to re-energize.
10. If needed, adjust the amount of caramel sauce to taste.