With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious caramel macchiato right in your kitchen. In this guide, you will discover how to make your own caramel macchiato.
What Is A Caramel Macchiato?
A Caramel Macchiato is a popular coffee beverage. It consists of a few key ingredients. Here’s what you need to know:
- Espresso: The base of the drink. It gives the Caramel Macchiato its bold flavor.
- Steamed Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the strong coffee taste.
- Vanilla Syrup: Sweetens the drink and adds depth.
- Caramel Sauce: Topped on the drink for a sweet finish.
The drink is often served hot or iced. It has a layered look, which makes it visually appealing. Many enjoy this drink in cafes, but it can be made at home easily.
Understanding The Classic Layers
The beauty of a Caramel Macchiato lies in its layers. Each layer brings its own flavor. Understanding these layers will help you create the perfect drink.
- First Layer: Vanilla syrup goes at the bottom. This sweet base enhances the drink.
- Second Layer: Steamed milk is added next. It creates a creamy texture.
- Third Layer: Espresso is poured on top. This gives the drink its strong coffee flavor.
- Top Layer: Finally, drizzle caramel sauce on top. It adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
When you pour the espresso over the milk, it creates a layered effect. The espresso floats on top of the milk. This makes the drink visually striking. The flavors mix as you drink, giving a unique experience.
Customizing Your Caramel Macchiato
Personalizing your Caramel Macchiato can elevate your coffee experience. Small changes in ingredients can make a big difference. Let’s explore how to make this drink uniquely yours.
Best Milk Options For A Creamy Texture
The milk you choose greatly impacts the texture of your Caramel Macchiato. A creamy texture enhances the flavor and makes each sip enjoyable. Here are some popular milk options:
- Whole Milk: Rich and creamy, perfect for a thick texture.
- 2% Milk: A balance of creaminess and lower fat.
- Almond Milk: A nutty flavor, often lighter than dairy milk.
- Oat Milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, a great non-dairy option.
- Skim Milk: Lighter option, less creamy but still tasty.
Choose the milk that fits your taste. Each option gives a different feel and flavor to your Caramel Macchiato.
Adjusting Sweetness To Your Preference
Sweetness is key in a Caramel Macchiato. You can control the sweetness to suit your taste. Start with the basic caramel syrup. Here are some options to adjust sweetness:
- Caramel Syrup: Add more or less for your desired sweetness.
- Vanilla Syrup: A splash can enhance the flavor.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that adds depth.
- Agave Nectar: A light syrup, sweeter than sugar.
- Stevia: A low-calorie option for sweetness.
Consider this simple guide:
- Start with 1 pump of caramel syrup.
- Taste your drink.
- Add more syrup gradually.
- Try other sweeteners if you prefer.
Adjusting sweetness is easy and personal. Finding the right level can make your Caramel Macchiato perfect for you.

Calories & Nutritional Information
Understanding the calories and nutritional information is important for those watching their diet. This guide will help you know what to expect in terms of calories and caffeine.
Calorie Breakdown Per Serving
One serving of homemade Caramel Macchiato typically contains around 300 calories. This number can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s a simple breakdown of the calorie sources:
Ingredient | Calories |
---|---|
Espresso (1 shot) | 5 |
Steamed Milk (1 cup) | 120 |
Caramel Sauce (2 tbsp) | 100 |
Vanilla Syrup (1 tbsp) | 50 |
Foamed Milk (1/4 cup) | 25 |
This breakdown shows how each component adds to the total. Adjusting the amount of caramel or syrup can help manage calorie intake. For a lighter version, use less caramel or a sugar-free syrup.
Caffeine In A Homemade Macchiato
A typical serving of homemade Caramel Macchiato has about 75 mg of caffeine. This amount comes mainly from the espresso shot. Let’s look at the caffeine sources:
- Espresso: One shot contains around 63 mg of caffeine.
- Steamed Milk: Contains negligible caffeine.
- Caramel Sauce: No caffeine.
- Vanilla Syrup: No caffeine.
The caffeine levels can vary based on the type of coffee beans used. Using more espresso will increase the caffeine content. For those sensitive to caffeine, consider using half a shot of espresso.
Ingredients For Caramel Macchiato
This section covers the essential components for your perfect Caramel Macchiato. From the sweet, sticky caramel sauce to the creamy coffee, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating this delightful drink.
Homemade Caramel Sauce
To create the perfect Caramel Macchiato, start with a homemade caramel sauce. This sauce adds sweetness and depth to your drink. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients | Measurements |
---|---|
Dark brown sugar | 50g |
Water | 30ml |
Heavy cream | 8g |
Unsalted butter | 7g |
Salt | A pinch (adjust to taste) |
With this homemade caramel sauce, you create a delicious base for your Caramel Macchiato.
For The Macchiato
This part is simple yet essential. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients | Measurements |
---|---|
Hot whole milk | 240ml |
Instant coffee | 5g (like NESCAFÉ GOLD) |
Hot water | 30ml |
Caramel sauce | 30ml |
This ingredients creates a delightful Caramel Macchiato. Enjoy the sweet and creamy flavor!
Step-by-step Home Recipe Caramel Macchiato
This guide provides a step-by-step recipe. Follow these easy instructions to create your own Caramel Macchiato. Impress your friends and family with this sweet treat.
Prepare The Caramel Sauce
Making caramel sauce at home is simple and rewarding. Here’s what you need:
In a small saucepan, combine 50g dark brown sugar and 30ml water over medium heat.
Let the sugar dissolve without stirring, then simmer until the mixture thickens and turns deep amber.
Remove from heat and immediately whisk in 8g heavy cream and 7g unsalted butter until fully combined.
Add a pinch of salt to taste, then set aside to cool slightly.
This caramel sauce adds a rich flavor. Use it generously in your Caramel Macchiato.
Make The Coffee Shot
Next, prepare your coffee shot. You can use espresso or strong brewed coffee. Here’s what you need:
In a small cup, mix 5g instant coffee with 30ml hot water, stirring until fully dissolved
Once ready, pour the coffee into a cup. The strong flavor will balance the sweet caramel.
Assemble The Caramel Macchiato
Now it’s time to assemble your Caramel Macchiato. Gather these ingredients:
Drizzle some caramel sauce around the inside of your serving glass.
Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill the drink.
Pour the prepared coffee shot over the ice.
Slowly add 240ml hot whole milk, allowing it to mix naturally.
Your Caramel Macchiato is now ready! Enjoy the layers of sweet caramel and strong coffee.
Garnish & Serve
Garnishing enhances the drink’s appeal. Here are some ideas:
Drizzle 30ml caramel sauce over the top.
(Optional) Add whipped cream for extra richness.
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade iced caramel macchiato!
Share this delightful drink with others. It’s perfect for any occasion.

Make a Perfect Caramel Macchiato at Home (Easy Recipe!)
Equipment
- Small saucepan (for caramel sauce)
- Whisk (for mixing caramel)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heat-resistant stirring spoon
- Coffee mug or tall glass (for serving)
- Spoon or squeeze bottle (for drizzling caramel)
- Kettle (for heating water)
- Milk frother (optional, for a creamier texture)
- Ice cubes (if making an iced version)
Ingredients
Homemade Caramel Sauce (Yields ~¼ cup)
- 50 g dark brown sugar
- 30 ml water
- 8 g heavy cream
- 1/2 tbsp butter
- A pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
For the Macchiato
- 240 ml hot whole milk
- 5 g instant coffee
- 30 ml hot water
- 30 ml caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel SauceIn a small saucepan, combine 50g dark brown sugar and 30ml water over medium heat.Let the sugar dissolve without stirring, then simmer until the mixture thickens and turns deep amber.Remove from heat and immediately whisk in 8g heavy cream and 7g unsalted butter until fully combined.Add a pinch of salt to taste, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Coffee ShotIn a small cup, mix 5g instant coffee with 30ml hot water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Assemble the Caramel MacchiatoDrizzle some caramel sauce around the inside of your serving glass.Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill the drink.Pour the prepared coffee shot over the ice.Slowly add 240ml hot whole milk, allowing it to mix naturally.
- Garnish & ServeDrizzle 30ml caramel sauce over the top.(Optional) Add whipped cream for extra richness.Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade iced caramel macchiato!