Craving that sweet, creamy caramel macchiato from Starbucks—but don’t want to leave the house (or break the bank)? We’ve got you covered. With just a few simple ingredients and a couple of minutes, you can recreate this coffeehouse classic right in your kitchen. Whether served hot or iced, this DIY caramel macchiato is rich, smooth, and just the right amount of indulgent.
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What Is a Caramel Macchiato?
At Starbucks, a caramel macchiato is made with vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso, and a generous drizzle of buttery caramel. The word macchiato means “marked” or “stained” in Italian, which refers to how the espresso is poured over the milk, creating those signature layers. Our version captures all the deliciousness with easy-to-find ingredients.
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Ingredients
For one 16-oz (grande-size) serving:
•1–2 shots of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
•1 cup milk of your choice (dairy, oat, almond, etc.)
•1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)
•Caramel sauce for drizzling
•Ice (for the iced version)
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Optional: Homemade Vanilla Syrup
Combine 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a small saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Store in a jar for up to 2 weeks.
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How to Make a Hot Caramel Macchiato
1. Heat your milk.
Warm the milk on the stove or microwave until steaming, then froth using a frother or whisk.
2. Add vanilla syrup.
Pour vanilla syrup into the bottom of your mug.
3. Pour in the milk.
Add your steamed milk over the vanilla syrup.
4. Add the espresso.
Slowly pour espresso over the milk to “mark” the top layer.
5. Drizzle with caramel.
Finish with a generous swirl of caramel sauce over the foam.
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How to Make an Iced Caramel Macchiato
1. Fill a cup with ice.
Start with a tall glass filled to the top with ice.
2. Add vanilla syrup.
Pour vanilla syrup directly over the ice.
3. Pour in cold milk.
Add milk over the syrup and ice.
4. Top with espresso.
Slowly pour espresso on top for those beautiful layers.
5. Caramel drizzle time.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and enjoy!
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Tips for the Best Macchiato
•Use quality espresso. A strong coffee base is key to balancing the sweetness.
•Layer slowly. For that Instagram-worthy look, pour the espresso slowly over the back of a spoon.
•Make it yours. Try flavored syrups (like hazelnut or cinnamon), dairy-free milks, or a pinch of sea salt in the caramel for a twist.
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Sip, Savor, Repeat
Making your own Starbucks-style caramel macchiato is easier than you think—and way more affordable. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll never have to wait in line again. Sweet, bold, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s the perfect treat to elevate your morning or afternoon break.
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Want more coffeehouse-inspired recipes? Stay tuned for our lavender latte, matcha refresher, and iced brown sugar shaken espresso DIY guides!
