A caramel macchiato is a delicious and smooth coffee drink that perfectly balances bold espresso, steamed milk, and sweet caramel syrup. It’s a coffeehouse favorite, known for its rich layers of flavor and creamy texture. Making it at home is easy, and you can customize it to your taste while saving money on expensive coffee shop versions!
Ingredients
- 1 shot of espresso (or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee)
- ¾ cup of milk (whole, skim, or plant-based)
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup or vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
- Ice cubes (for an iced version)
How to Make a Caramel Macchiato
- Brew the Espresso or Coffee – Prepare one shot of espresso using an espresso machine, or brew ½ cup of strong coffee using a French press or drip coffee maker.
- Heat and Froth the Milk – Steam the milk using a steam wand or heat it on the stove until warm but not boiling. Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk to create a light, airy texture.
- Flavor the Milk – In a serving glass, pour the vanilla syrup first, then add the steamed milk. This creates the signature layered effect of a macchiato.
- Add the Espresso – Slowly pour the espresso shot over the milk. The coffee will sit on top of the milk, creating the traditional macchiato layers.
- Drizzle with Caramel – Finish by drizzling caramel syrup over the top, adding extra if you love a sweeter taste.
Preparation Time
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Active preparation time: 5 minutes
- Heating/frothing time: 5 minutes
Tips for the Best Caramel Macchiato
- Use Freshly Brewed Espresso: A strong espresso shot brings out the best flavor. If using regular coffee, make it slightly stronger.
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of vanilla and caramel syrup to suit your taste.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use oat, almond, or coconut milk for a plant-based version.
- Try an Iced Caramel Macchiato: Skip the steaming, fill a glass with ice, add cold milk and vanilla syrup, then top with espresso and caramel drizzle.
- Extra Frothy? If you love extra foam, shake warm milk in a sealed jar or blend it for a frothy texture.
More About Caramel Macchiato
The caramel macchiato was popularized by Starbucks, but its roots come from Italian macchiatos, where espresso is “marked” (macchiato means “stained” in Italian) with a touch of milk. The caramel version adds a sweeter twist, making it a comforting and indulgent coffee drink.
It’s perfect for a midday treat, a morning pick-me-up, or a cozy evening coffee. Whether served hot or iced, this homemade caramel macchiato lets you enjoy a barista-style coffee without leaving home!