Description
This Caramel Macchiato recipe offers a deliciously rich and creamy coffee experience, featuring homemade vanilla syrup and caramel sauce for an indulgent homemade twist on a classic café favorite. Quick to prepare and perfect for one serving, this beverage combines frothy milk, robust espresso, and sweet caramel flavors for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Vanilla Syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Caramel Macchiato
- 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- ¾ cup whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 ounces espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
Instructions
- Make the Vanilla Syrup: In a small pot over medium-high heat, combine granulated sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then continue boiling for 8-10 minutes until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool and store any leftover syrup in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In another small pot over medium-high heat, combine brown sugar, whipping cream, salted butter, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and cool. Store in a squeeze bottle or airtight container for easy drizzling.
- Froth the Milk: Pour ¾ cup of milk into a frother, or use a steam wand or whisk to froth the milk until light and airy.
- Assemble the Caramel Macchiato: Pour 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup into a mug. Add the frothed milk over the syrup carefully to preserve the layers. Brew 2 ounces of espresso or strong coffee, and gently pour it over the milk to create the signature ‘mark.’
- Drizzle Caramel: Using the prepared caramel sauce, drizzle two circular lines around the edge of the mug, followed by a crosshatch pattern on top to finish your homemade Caramel Macchiato.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with any milk of choice, including oat, almond, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
- Store homemade vanilla syrup and caramel sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Adjust espresso strength to preference, or use strong brewed coffee as an alternative.
- To froth milk without a frother, vigorously whisk warm milk until frothy.
- This recipe is ideal for a single serving but can be easily scaled up.
