A Starbucks Caramel Macchiato just feels like pure comfort in a cup; a sweet drizzle of caramel, a creamy mouthfeel, and a firm punch of espresso… I might enjoy this treat any time of the day! Here’s the good part: you do not have to run to Starbucks for this. With just a handful of ingredients, prepare a Starbucks Copycat Caramel Macchiato right at home. Easy, fast, and honestly just as good, if not better.

What is Starbucks’ Copycat Caramel Macchiato All About!?

A very good copy of a Starbucks Caramel Macchiato, made at home. Layered with milk flavored with vanilla, smooth espresso, and topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce, this is very much your homemade version of the Starbucks favorite. In fact, that is the beauty of it: the drink isn’t overly sweet, nor is it too mild on coffee flavor. And at home, you decide how strong, sweet, or creamy it is.

Ingredients

For the drink

1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
1 shot espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
1-2 tablespoons caramel sauce

For serving

Ice (if making iced version)
Extra caramel sauce for drizzle

Instructions

Warm the milk – Heat milk on a stove or microwave until hot but not boiling. Froth it with a milk frother or a whisk.
Add vanilla – Pour vanilla syrup into the bottom of your mug or glass.
Pour in milk – Add the steamed milk on top of the syrup.
Put the espresso – Slowly pour the espresso over the milk to create that “macchiato layer”.
Top with caramel – Drizzle the caramel sauce over the surface in generous portions.
Enjoy – Sip and smile: It’s your very own Starbucks Copycat Caramel Macchiato!

Related: Almond Joy Martini Recipe

Storage Tips

Although the best is freshly brewed, you can keep brewed coffee in the fridge for up to 1-2 days.
For weeks, room temperature sealed up caramel sauce and vanilla syrup can stay fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with a muffin, croissant, or banana bread for a café-style breakfast.
Serve both over ice for a refreshing iced caramel macchiato.

Pro Tips & Variations

Instead of whole milk, try using oat or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Sugar-free vanilla syrup and reduced-fat caramel sauce will cut down on a few calories.
Make it truly decadent with whipped cream on top.

FAQs

Is it possible to make this without espresso?

It is mildly sweet; add more or less depending on your taste preferences.

Is it very sweet?

It’s mildly sweet. Add more or less caramel depending on your taste.

What’s the best kind of milk?

Whole milk is optimized for frothing, but any kind of milk or non-dairy will work just fine.

Can I make it over ice?

Absolutely. Just build it over ice and skip steaming the milk.

Try It!

This copycat caramel macchiato is proof that you can have a coffeehouse feel without a coffeehouse price. It’s creamy, sweet, bold, and would just take a minute to put together whenever a craving hits. Once you try it,

I bet you’ll be making it over and over again. Get your mug and treat yourself today!