Description
A classic Caramel Macchiato made from scratch featuring homemade vanilla syrup and rich caramel sauce. This delightful coffee beverage combines frothy milk, strong espresso, and sweet caramel for a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for a quick 5-minute indulgence at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Vanilla Syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the 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, combine granulated sugar and water over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and continue boiling for 8 to 10 minutes until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store any leftovers in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Make the caramel sauce: In a small pot over medium-high heat, combine brown sugar, whipping cream, salted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool. Store in a squeeze bottle or airtight container for easy drizzling.
- Prepare the Caramel Macchiato: Pour 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup into a mug. Froth the milk using a frother, steam wand, or whisk, then pour the frothed milk over the vanilla syrup. Brew 2 ounces of espresso (or 4 ounces of strong brewed coffee) and gently pour it over the milk to create a marked layer. Drizzle caramel sauce on top, forming two circles around the mug edge and finishing with a crosshatch pattern.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and whipping cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk and cream alternatives.
- Adjust the sweetness by altering the amount of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce to taste.
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor. If unavailable, strong brewed coffee works as a substitute.
- Store vanilla syrup and caramel sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Frothing milk enhances texture but can be replaced by vigorous whisking if necessary.
