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Creamy Copycat Starbucks Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe Easy and Perfect for Home

copycat starbucks brown sugar shaken espresso - featured image

A creamy, sweet, and bold shaken espresso inspired by Starbucks, made easy at home with simple ingredients and a caramelized brown sugar syrup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 shots (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee concentrate
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • Ice cubes (preferably large)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk or dairy alternative (almond, oat, soy)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Brown Sugar Syrup: Combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens slightly. Avoid boiling aggressively to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
  2. Brew the Espresso: Pull two shots of espresso (about 60 ml). If no espresso machine, use strong coffee concentrate or cold brew concentrate.
  3. Prepare Your Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker or sealed mason jar halfway with ice cubes.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour hot espresso shots into the shaker over ice. Add 2 tablespoons of cooled brown sugar syrup and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract if using.
  5. Shake it Up: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the shaker feels cold and espresso is frothy.
  6. Pour Over Ice: Fill a glass with fresh ice cubes. Strain the shaken espresso mixture over the ice.
  7. Add Milk: Gently pour 1/2 cup of preferred milk over the espresso. The milk should float slightly and mix gradually when sipping.
  8. Serve Immediately: Stir gently if desired or enjoy the layered effect.

Notes

Use low to medium heat and stir constantly when making brown sugar syrup to avoid burning. Shake espresso while hot to dissolve syrup and create froth. Use whole or oat milk for creamier texture. Store leftover syrup in fridge up to two weeks. Serve immediately for best froth and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Starbucks, brown sugar shaken espresso, copycat recipe, creamy espresso, iced coffee, homemade coffee drink, brown sugar syrup