This easy iced caramel macchiato is a refreshing, indulgent pick-me-up for warm days. Cold coffee is combined with a silky caramel syrup, poured over ice, and finished with a smooth caramel drizzle — perfect for upgrading your morning routine or afternoon break.
What’s in this iced caramel macchiato?
The drink is a simple, delicious blend of coffee, milk, and caramel. On the first sip you’ll taste creamy milk and bold coffee, with sweet caramel adding a decadent note. As the ice chills the mixture, the flavors balance into a smooth, sweet coffee treat.
You’ll need:
For the caramel macchiato syrup:
- ½ cup simple syrup
- ¼ cup caramel topping (or use your favorite caramel sauce)
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
Pro tip:
Simple syrup is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves, then cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
For the macchiato:
- Ice
- 2–4 tablespoons caramel macchiato syrup (from above)
- Cold pre-brewed coffee, or instant coffee/espresso dissolved in cold water
Substitutions and additions
Coffee: Use any coffee you enjoy. Flavored coffees that complement caramel work well. For less caffeine, substitute decaf.
Milk: For dairy-free options, swap condensed milk in the syrup for sweetened plant-based condensed milk alternatives, or use soy, almond, or coconut milk when preparing the drink. Low-fat or whole milk can also be used to adjust richness.
Temperature: To serve hot, omit the ice and add the syrup to hot brewed coffee for a warm caramel macchiato.
How to make an iced caramel macchiato
The recipe is made in two parts: the caramel syrup and the assembled drink. The syrup keeps in the fridge, so you can make a batch ahead.
Step one: Combine the simple syrup, caramel topping, and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl and mix until smooth.
Our recipe developer says
Store the syrup in a squeeze bottle for easy pouring and storage.
Step two: Fill a glass or mug with ice.
Step three: Add 2 to 4 tablespoons of the caramel macchiato syrup over the ice, adjusting to taste.
Step four: Pour cold pre-brewed coffee, or prepared instant coffee/espresso, into the glass until full.
Step five: Stir until the syrup is fully incorporated. If you prefer a richer drink, add a tablespoon of cream or milk and stir again.
Pro tip:
If you want an even creamier texture, add a tablespoon of cream or milk to the finished drink.
How to serve
Serve immediately while cold. For an extra-special presentation, top with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle or a light sprinkle of cinnamon. Pair with a slice of coffee cake, a breakfast sandwich, or a bagel with cream cheese for a fuller treat.
Storing
In the fridge: Store the caramel macchiato syrup in an airtight container or squeeze bottle for up to four weeks.
Make-ahead: Brewed coffee can be refrigerated for up to one week, making it easy to mix a drink quickly.
In the freezer: The assembled drink should be made to order. Only the syrup stores well; other components are best fresh.
Caramel macchiato iced recipe
This homemade iced caramel macchiato uses just a few pantry ingredients and tastes like a classic coffee shop drink. It’s easy to make at home whenever you crave a sweet, creamy coffee.
FAQs
Simple syrup is a sweet liquid made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat until the sugar dissolves. Cool before storing in the fridge.
Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to four weeks in an airtight container or squeeze bottle.
Yes. Omit the ice and add the syrup to hot brewed coffee to make a hot caramel macchiato.
The iced caramel macchiato leans sweet because of the syrup, and its coffee strength depends on the coffee you use; it’s generally stronger than a latte but milder than some espresso-forward drinks.
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Caramel Macchiato Iced
Ingredients
Caramel macchiato syrup
- ½ cup simple syrup
- ¼ cup caramel topping
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
Caramel macchiato
- Ice
- 2–4 tablespoons caramel macchiato syrup
- Cold pre-brewed coffee, instant coffee, or instant espresso
Instructions
- Combine simple syrup, caramel topping, and sweetened condensed milk; mix until smooth to make the caramel macchiato syrup.
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add the caramel macchiato syrup to the glass.
- Pour cold coffee into the glass to fill.
- Stir thoroughly and enjoy. Add a tablespoon of cream or milk for extra creaminess if desired.
Notes
- Simple syrup: bring equal parts water and sugar to a boil, stir until dissolved, cool, and refrigerate.
- Store syrup in a squeeze bottle for easy dispensing.
- For a creamier drink, add a tablespoon of cream or milk when serving.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 228 g
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