Iced caramel macchiato: A sweet and exciting coffee

When it’s hot, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing iced coffee to brighten your day. With its beautiful layers of espresso, milk, and caramel, an iced caramel macchiato is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the tongue. If you’ve never tried a macchiato, let alone an iced one, you are in for a real treat. Please don’t let the name put you off, yes its a different-sounding name. But a macchiato is another simple coffee made with coffee and milk. Plus, it’s super simple to make. So let’s get going.

What is iced caramel macchiato?

It’s made by pouring a shot of espresso with caramel syrup over cold milk and ice cubes, then drizzling some more caramel sauce on top. This gives a visually stunning and delicious morning starter or afternoon pick-up.

The Taste of iced caramel macchiato

An iced caramel macchiato is begins with the rich and robust flavor of espresso, perfectly balanced by the smooth and creamy texture of milk, and elevated by the sweet and buttery notes of caramel sauce. When sipped, the layers of flavors join together, creating an exciting indulgent coffee experience. It’s a perfect way to satisfy your coffee craving whilst keeping cool. Plus when you make it yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress your friends and family – just don’t tell them how easy it is to make!

How to make an iced caramel macchiato

Equipment

• espresso machine, or coffee maker
• milk frother or blender or whisk
• 1 glass or 8oz mug
• 1 spoon

Ingredients

• 2 shots Espresso
• 4 oz Milk
• 2 tbsp caramel syrup
• 1/2 cup ice cubes

Method

• For a bold flavor use two shots of espresso, or make 1/2 cup of strong coffee
• Leave the coffee to cool
• While the coffee is cooling, add the caramel syrup and stir to mix
• When the coffee is cool, froth the chilled milk to create a creamy foam
• Put the ice cubes into a glass or mug
• Pour over the coffee and caramel syrup
• Add the milk slowly so that it forms a layer on top of the espresso. Finally, top off the macchiato with another drizzle of caramel syrup
• The result is a rich and flavorful coffee that is perfect for enjoying on its own or with a sweet treat. Plus its warm weather friendly

Top Tips

• Use high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans and a good espresso machine for the best tasting espresso.
• Don’t worry if you haven’t got an espresso machine – just check out my guide to making espresso without an espresso machine.
• If you are using dairy milk, make sure to use one that will froth well. Check out my guide to the best dairy milks. For non-dairy milks, I like to use a barista oat milk. It’s rich and creamy with a great flavor. Plus it is super simple to get a velvety foam. Check out my guide to best non-dairy milks. NB I wrote these two guides when making lattes, but the idea is the same – you want to froth milk to get a creamy velvety finish.
• It is surprisingly easy to froth cold milk. You can use whatever equipment you have available. I often use a hand blender. It’s quick and easy to get the result you need.
• Drizzle some extra caramel sauce on top for the perfect finishing touch, swirling it in a spiral or zigzag pattern for an eye-catching presentation.
• For variations, try using salted caramel sauce (check out my easy-follow salted caramel syrup recipe) for a salted caramel twist, or experiment with different milk alternatives, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, for a dairy-free option.

The Bottom Line

Caramel iced macchiatos are a fantastic way to enjoy a cool and luxurious coffee drink that combines bold espresso flavors with the sweetness of caramel and the creaminess of milk.

By following my Top Tips and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, you can create your own personal iced caramel macchiato that’s tailored to your taste preferences.

So, why not give it a try and treat yourself AND impress your friends and family?

FAQs

What is the difference between an iced latte and an iced caramel macchiato?

An iced latte and an iced caramel macchiato have some similarities but are also quite different. Both are espresso-based drinks made with cold milk. The main difference, however, lies in the way they are assembled. An iced caramel macchiato typically has a distinct pattern of layered ingredients whereas an iced latte does not.

Can I make an iced caramel macchiato without an espresso machine?

Yes, you can make an iced caramel macchiato without an espresso machine by using strong brewed coffee or a concentrated cold brew as a substitute for the espresso shot. Check out my guide to making espresso without a machine – there are so many ways you will be surprised!

How many calories are in an iced caramel macchiato?

The calorie content of an iced caramel macchiato depends on the type of milk and sweeteners used. To reduce calories, opt for low-fat or plant-based milk and sugar-free syrups or sauces. My recipe gives you a calculation as a starting point. But remember it’s just a guide – the actual amounts depend on the ingredients and amounts you use.

Is an iced caramel macchiato stronger than an iced coffee?

An iced caramel macchiato may have a stronger coffee flavor due to the use of espresso, but the caffeine content depends on the brewing method and coffee beans used. If you use the same amount of the same coffee, both drinks have similar caffeine levels.

Can I make a dairy-free iced caramel macchiato?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free iced caramel macchiato by using plant-based milk alternatives such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Check out my guide to using non-dairy milks. Please be aware, I wrote these two guides when making lattes, but the idea is the same – you want to froth milk to get a creamy velvety finish.

Other great iced and chilled coffees to keep you cool

Once you have enjoyed an iced caramel macchiato, why not make some of these amazing cooling and refreshing hot-weather drinks:

• Iced americano – You know and love americano, so why not enjoy it year round!
• Iced cappuccino – perfect when you just need a cappuccino, but it’s too hot.
• Decaf iced coffee – cool refreshing but caffeine-free, so you can enjoy it any time.
• Iced flat white – another great espresso-based coffee we all love.
• Iced hazelnut latte – delicious nutty flavor, I like mine with oat milk.
• Shaken espresso – new kid on the block. So smooth and creamy you won’t want it to end.
• Instant iced coffee – a great budget option and super simple to make.