Caramel Latte Starbucks Recipe [+Tips]

Ingredients For Caramel Latte Starbucks Recipe

Now, let’s break down the simple yet magical components that create this caramel masterpiece. You don’t need a fancy espresso machine (though it helps), and most of these ingredients are probably already chilling in your kitchen.

Basic Ingredients

• Espresso (1-2 Shots)

  Starbucks uses rich, bold espresso-but you can totally use a strongly brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine. (French press or AeroPress works great!)

• Milk (¾ To 1 Cup)

  Starbucks usually uses 2% milk, but you do you! Whole milk, oat milk, almond, soy-it’s your latte, your rules.

• Caramel Syrup (2-3 Tablespoons)

  This is the soul of the drink. You can use Starbucks’ official syrup (yes, you can buy it online!), Torani, Monin, or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Caramel Sauce (for Drizzling)

  This goes right on top and is purely for indulgence. It adds a rich, sticky finish that makes the drink feel extra special.

• Optional: Whipped Cream

  Want that over-the-top Starbucks experience? Add a generous swirl of whipped cream before the caramel drizzle!

Equipment You Might Need

• Espresso machine, Nespresso, or Moka pot
• Milk frother (or a saucepan and whisk if you’re old-school)
• Tall mug or glass
• Spoon and measuring tools

️ How To Make Caramel Latte Starbucks-Style

Ready to become your own barista? Here’s the full step-by-step breakdown for making that perfect caramel latte.

‍ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brew Your Espresso

   • Brew 1-2 shots of espresso. If you’re using strong coffee instead, aim for about 1/3 cup.
   • Pour it into your mug.

2. Add The Caramel Syrup

   • Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of caramel syrup directly into the hot espresso. This is where the flavor magic begins.

3. Steam And Froth The Milk

   • Heat your milk until it’s hot but not boiling (around 150°F/65°C).
   • Froth it using a frother, French press, or whisk. You want that creamy, airy texture Starbucks is known for.

4. Combine The Espresso And Milk

   • Pour the steamed milk into the espresso-caramel mix, holding back the foam with a spoon.
   • Then spoon the foam on top.

5. Top With Whipped Cream And Caramel Sauce

   • Optional, but oh-so-worth-it. Add whipped cream, then drizzle caramel sauce generously on top.

And there you have it! Your homemade caramel latte is ready to be sipped, savored, and Instagrammed.

Expert Tips

Here are some pro-level tips to make your caramel latte taste like it came straight out of the green mermaid café.

• Use Freshly Brewed Espresso

  The fresher, the better. It really makes a difference in flavor intensity.

• Warm Your Mug First

  Pour some hot water into your mug while prepping your drink-then dump it before pouring your latte. It keeps the drink hotter longer.

• Don’t Skip Frothing

  That foamy texture is what gives a latte its luxurious feel. Even a quick whisk can make a huge difference.

• Homemade Caramel Syrup

  Want to get fancy? Make your own syrup with equal parts sugar and water, heated until golden, and a splash of vanilla or cream. YUM.

• Balance Sweetness

  If you like your coffee on the bolder side, start with 1 tablespoon of syrup and adjust from there. You’re the boss.

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Want to switch it up? Try these tasty twists on the classic caramel latte:

• Iced Caramel Latte

  Cool everything down. Use cold milk, pour espresso over ice, add caramel syrup, and shake or stir.

• Salted Caramel Latte

  Add a pinch of sea salt to your caramel sauce or use salted caramel syrup for that sweet-salty balance.

• Vegan/Dairy-Free Caramel Latte

  Use oat milk (creamiest option) and a plant-based caramel sauce and syrup.

• Caramel Mocha Latte

  Add a pump of chocolate syrup to the mix. Chocolate + caramel + coffee? Yes please.

• Caramel Macchiato Vibes

  Reverse the order: steamed milk first, then espresso poured over, caramel drizzle last. It’s a little more dramatic and layered in flavor.

Final Words

Let’s be real: there’s something so satisfying about making your favorite café drink at home. It’s cozy, cost-effective, and-you guessed it-customizable. The Starbucks Caramel Latte is basically a blank canvas for your coffee creativity.

Whether you like it hot or iced, sweet or bold, traditional or with a twist, this recipe is here to deliver that silky caramel goodness whenever you crave it. And once you get the hang of it? You might find yourself skipping the drive-thru line more often.

FAQs

What Is A Caramel Latte?

A caramel latte is a coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and caramel syrup. It’s typically topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness and flavor.

How Do You Make A Caramel Latte At Home Like Starbucks?

To make a caramel latte at home, brew a shot of espresso or strong coffee, steam milk (preferably whole milk for richness), and mix with caramel syrup. Pour the espresso into the milk, stir, and top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

What Kind Of Caramel Syrup Does Starbucks Use In Their Caramel Lattes?

Starbucks uses its own brand of caramel syrup, which has a rich, buttery flavor. It is sweetened with sugar and offers a smooth consistency perfect for blending into lattes.

Can I Use Caramel Sauce Instead Of Caramel Syrup For A Caramel Latte?

Yes, you can use caramel sauce instead of syrup, but the texture might be slightly thicker. If you use sauce, make sure to stir it thoroughly to dissolve it into the milk and espresso, and adjust the amount to taste.

What Type Of Milk Is Best For A Caramel Latte?

Whole milk is the best option for a creamy, rich caramel latte. However, you can also use alternatives like oat milk, almond milk, or skim milk depending on your preference for taste or dietary needs.

Can I Make A Caramel Latte Without Espresso?

Yes, you can make a caramel latte without espresso by using strong brewed coffee instead. While it won’t have the same intensity as espresso, it will still offer the same delicious caramel flavor.

How Many Shots Of Espresso Are In A Caramel Latte At Starbucks?

A standard caramel latte at Starbucks is made with one shot of espresso for a Tall size (12 oz). For a Grande (16 oz), it typically has two shots, and for a Venti (20 oz), three shots.

Is The Caramel Latte At Starbucks Sweetened?

Yes, the caramel latte at Starbucks is sweetened with both the caramel syrup and the milk. The caramel syrup adds a significant amount of sweetness, though you can always request less syrup or a sugar-free version if you prefer a less sweet drink.

How Do I Customize My Caramel Latte At Starbucks?

You can customize your caramel latte by adjusting the milk type (such as almond, oat, or soy milk), modifying the number of espresso shots, requesting a sugar-free caramel syrup, or adding extra toppings like caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

What Can I Pair With A Caramel Latte From Starbucks?

A caramel latte pairs wonderfully with pastries like a warm croissant, a chocolate chip cookie, or a muffin. For something more savory, you might try it with a breakfast sandwich or a protein box to balance out the sweetness.