Coffee Recipes

Copycat Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

Millie Pham

If you love Starbucks’ Iced Caramel Macchiato, you’re in for a treat!

This homemade version is easy, budget-friendly, and just as delicious—maybe even better because you can make it exactly how you like it.

The creamy milk, bold espresso, sweet vanilla, and rich caramel drizzle come together for the perfect sip.

Plus, making it at home saves time and money (no more long drive-thru lines!).

Let’s make this café-quality drink in just a few minutes!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, oat, or almond)
  • 1 shot espresso (or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee)
  • 1 tbsp vanilla syrup
  • ½ cup ice cubes
  • 1 tbsp caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

Tools

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Tall glass
  • Spoon or straw for stirring
Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

Pro Tips

Use fresh espresso for the best flavor. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong coffee works too!
Want it extra sweet? Add more vanilla syrup or caramel.
Try different milk types to find your favorite! Oat milk is creamy and delicious.
For the best layers, pour the espresso slowly over the milk and ice.
Love a stronger coffee taste? Use two shots of espresso instead of one.

Substitutions & Variations

🔄 No vanilla syrup? Use a little vanilla extract with sugar or honey.
🔄 No espresso? Make strong brewed coffee instead.
🔄 Dairy-free? Oat, almond, or soy milk work great!
🔄 Want a hot version? Skip the ice and warm the milk before adding espresso.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill the Glass with Ice and Vanilla Syrup

Pour ½ cup ice cubes into a tall glass, then add 1 tbsp vanilla syrup.

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

2. Pour in the Milk

Slowly pour 1 cup of milk over the ice. The vanilla syrup will mix slightly, creating a creamy base.

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

3. Brew and Add the Espresso

Brew 1 shot of espresso (or ¼ cup strong coffee), then slowly pour it over the milk and ice. It should sit on top, creating beautiful layers.

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

4. Drizzle with Caramel

Drizzle 1 tbsp caramel sauce over the top, letting it slowly cascade down the sides of the glass.

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

5. Stir & Enjoy!

Give it a good stir (or sip it as is to enjoy the layers). Pop in a straw, and enjoy your homemade Starbucks-style Iced Caramel Macchiato!

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

Leftovers & Storage

🧊 Not drinking it right away? Store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Just stir before drinking!
🍮 Want an extra caramel kick later? Add more caramel sauce before serving.

Time to Make Your Own!

Now you know how to make a perfect Iced Caramel Macchiato at home!

It’s easy, quick, and tastes just like the real thing (or even better!).

Try it out and let me know in the comments how it turned out.

Did you make any fun twists?

I’d love to hear! 💛☕✨

Hi there! I'm Millie Pham, a devoted brewer and tea lover at heart. As the founder of Bean Leaf Cup, my mission is to share my tea and coffee expertise with you all. I firmly believe that creating a fantastic cup of tea or coffee should be easy for everyone. No matter if you're already a coffee or tea expert or just beginning your journey, I'm here to help you navigate the world of brewing. Welcome aboard!