Caramel macchiato recipe

What is a Caramel Macchiato?

Let’s start with the basics : what is a Caramel Macchiato?

The caramel macchiato is a coffee-based drink that, as its name suggests, contains a rich caramel sauce as well as vanilla-flavoured steamed milk. “Macchiato” means “marked” or “stained” in Italian, referencing how the espresso “marks” the milk foam in the drink.

Unlike a standard latte, where the espresso is poured first, a Caramel Macchiato is prepared in reverse order, giving it its signature layered appearance. This creates a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and bold coffee flavour. Served in a clear glass, the layers of milk, espresso, and caramel make it as visually appealing as it is tasty. This drink offers a nice balance of sweet and bitter, making it a favorite among coffee lovers. All you need is an espresso machine, a milk frother and a bit of caramel syrup!

The origins of the Caramel Macchiato

The Caramel Macchiato has its roots in Italy, where the traditional “macchiato” was a simple espresso marked with a small amount of milk. However, the Caramel Macchiato as we know it today was popularised by modern coffee shops. The addition of caramel and vanilla flavours transformed the classic macchiato into a more indulgent and widely loved beverage. It was launched by Starbucks in 1996 and has since become one of the chain’s most popular beverages.

What is the difference between a Caramel Macchiato and a Latte?

Both caramel macchiatos and lattes are made with espresso and steamed milk. However, the key differences lie in the order of ingredients and the overall flavor profile. In a caramel macchiato, the espresso is poured over the steamed milk and caramel sauce, creating a distinct layered effect. Lattes, on the other hand, typically have the espresso mixed directly with the steamed milk before being topped with foam. Additionally, caramel macchiatos are often sweeter due to the addition of caramel sauce.

Is a macchiato stronger than coffee?

That depends. A Macchiato is typically made with a shot of espresso, so if an espresso is your go-to coffee drink, then the answer is no. However, if you’re used to pour-over coffee, or other less intense brewing methods, then chances are that you’ll find that a Macchiato can really pack a punch.

Now, let’s dive into the Caramel Macchiato drink recipe.

How do you prepare a Starbucks Caramel Macchiato?

Now you know how to quickly and easily make a caramel latte macchiato that is just as good as the ones you get at Starbucks, to enjoy on a cold winter’s day. Get all the recipe ideas you need and, most importantly, treat yourself at home, just like a real barista!