Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks Copycat Smoked Butterscotch Latte

Millie Pham

If you love the Smoked Butterscotch Latte from Starbucks, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version is smooth, creamy, and full of rich butterscotch flavor with a hint of smokiness that makes it extra special.

The best part? It’s easy to make at home in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. No fancy syrups needed—just real butterscotch, espresso, and a little magic.

Let’s get started!

📋 What You’ll Need

Ingredients

  • 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
  • ¾ cup milk (any kind)
  • 2 tbsp butterscotch sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • ½ tsp smoked sea salt
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
  • Extra butterscotch sauce (for drizzle)

Tools

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Mug for serving
all ingredients for a Starbucks copycat smoked butterscotch latte arranged on a white marble countertop with hints of gold. A small glass jar holds butterscotch sauce, and another contains milk

⭐ Pro Tips

  1. Use real butterscotch – Melted butterscotch chips or a simple homemade sauce will taste way better than artificial syrups.
  2. Don’t skip the smoked salt – It gives the latte that signature smoky flavor!
  3. Want it extra creamy? Use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
  4. No espresso machine? Use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso.
  5. Make it iced! Pour over ice and skip the frothing step for a chilled version.

🔄 Substitutions & Variations

  • No butterscotch sauce? Use caramel sauce with a pinch of brown sugar.
  • Dairy-free? Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
  • Want it stronger? Add an extra shot of espresso.
  • Extra smoky? Add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the butterscotch sauce.

⏳ Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make butterscotch sauce ahead – Store in the fridge and reheat before using.
  • Batch-prep espresso – Brew extra and keep it chilled for quick lattes.

👩‍🍳 How to Make a Starbucks Copycat Smoked Butterscotch Latte

1. Brew the Espresso or Coffee

Make 2 shots of espresso or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee.

a freshly brewed espresso shot in a small white cup. The coffee is dark and rich, with a golden crema on top

2. Heat the Milk & Butterscotch Sauce

In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butterscotch sauce over low heat, whisking until smooth and steamy.

 a small saucepan on a modern stainless steel gas stove

3. Add Smoked Salt & Vanilla

Stir in the smoked sea salt and vanilla extract for a deep, rich flavor.

a saucepan with warm butterscotch milk, as smoked sea salt and vanilla extract are being sprinkled in

4. Froth the Milk (Optional)

Use a milk frother or whisk vigorously to create a light foam.

a small frothing pitcher filled with warm butterscotch milk, being frothed into a creamy foam

5. Pour Espresso & Butterscotch Milk into a Mug

Pour the brewed espresso into a mug, then slowly add the warm butterscotch milk mixture.

a white ceramic mug filled with freshly brewed espresso, as warm butterscotch milk is being poured in from a small saucepan

6. Top with Whipped Cream & Butterscotch Drizzle

Add whipped cream, then drizzle with extra butterscotch sauce for a finishing touch.

a Starbucks copycat smoked butterscotch latte in a white ceramic mug, topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a drizzle of golden butterscotch sauce

🥡 Leftovers & Storage

  • Drink fresh – This latte is best enjoyed right away!
  • Save extra butterscotch milk – Store in a jar in the fridge and reheat before using.
  • For an iced version – Let it cool and serve over ice.

💛 Time to Sip & Enjoy!

This Starbucks copycat smoked butterscotch latte is rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious—perfect for cozy mornings or an afternoon treat! If you try it, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Happy sipping! ☕🍯✨

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!