The Best Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe

Now the weather in the UK is warming up (eventually!), there’s something about an Iced Caramel Macchiato that feels like a little luxury - it's cool, creamy, sweet, and just the right amount of bold. It’s my go-to when I need a pick me up between flights or a treat on a sunny day off.

After testing countless recipes and tips from fellow baristas and coffee lovers, I’ve crafted the ultimate version that combines the best of all worlds. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a refreshing pick me up, this recipe brings café-quality indulgence to your home.

Ingredients

• 2 shots of espresso (or 60ml strong brewed coffee)

• 180ml cold milk (dairy or your favourite plant-based alternative)

• 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

• Ice cubes

• Optional: Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Drizzle caramel sauce along the inside walls of a tall glass. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation.

2. Add Vanilla Syrup and Milk: Pour the vanilla syrup into the glass, followed by the cold milk. Stir gently to combine.

3. Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes, leaving some space at the top.

4. Pour Espresso: Slowly pour the freshly brewed espresso over the ice. This layering creates the signature "macchiato" effect.

5. Top It Off: Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top. For an extra treat, add a dollop of whipped cream before the caramel drizzle.

Tia’s Pro Tips

• Homemade Vanilla Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add a splash of vanilla extract. Let it cool before using.

• Caramel Sauce Options: While store-bought works fine, making your own caramel sauce can elevate the flavor.

• Layering Technique: To achieve distinct layers, pour the espresso slowly over the back of a spoon held just above the milk. This helps the espresso float on top.

• Customisation: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce. You can also experiment with different milk alternatives to suit your taste.

Jet Bean Blend Pairings

For this recipe, I recommend using our Jumbo Jet Espresso blend. Its rich, bold flavour stands up beautifully to the sweetness of the caramel and vanilla, creating a balanced and satisfying drink.

Whether you're gearing up for a long-haul flight or enjoying a leisurely afternoon at home, this Iced Caramel Macchiato is your ticket to a delightful coffee experience. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

Enjoy the sun, and enjoy this sweet treat!

Tia Louch
Coffee Purist | Cabin Crew | Jet Bean Devotee