Iced Shaken Espresso – Make This Starbucks Favorite Without the Side-Eye From Baristas
Ever stood in a coffee shop line wondering why your barista’s name is always something like “Zephyr” or “Moonbeam”? Skip the existential crisis (and the $6 charge) with this homemade Iced Shaken Espresso. It’s Starbucks’ cool, caffeinated cousin—minus the cryptic syrup names.
What You Need
- 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
- 1–2 tbsp simple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- ½ cup ice cubes (the louder they clink, the better)
- ¼ cup milk (dairy, oat, almond—your call)
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or caramel drizzle for flair
How to Make It
- Brew the espresso. Use a machine, French press, or instant coffee mixed with water. No judgment here.
- Shake it like a polaroid picture. Combine hot espresso, simple syrup, and ice in a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid). Shake hard for 15 seconds. This step replaces your morning cardio.
- Strain into a glass. Pour the shaken espresso into a cup, leaving the ice behind. Add fresh ice—this keeps your drink from tasting like watered-down regret.
- Top with milk. Pour milk over the espresso. Stir gently if you’re fancy; leave it layered if you’re Instagramming it.
- Drizzle and sip. Add vanilla or caramel if you want to feel like a dessert wizard.
Pro Tips
- Use cold brew concentrate if espresso isn’t your thing.
- Shake longer for extra foam—baristas hate this one trick!
- For a stronger drink, skip the extra ice after shaking. Live dangerously.
Why This Work
Shaking espresso with ice chills it fast, creating a frothy texture Starbucks charges extra for. The simple syrup balances bitterness without requiring a chemistry degree. Customize the milk and sweetness to match your personality (or your caffeine tolerance).
Final Thought
Next time “Zephyr” asks for your order, wink and say, “I’ve got it handled.” Then enjoy your homemade Iced Shaken Espresso—preferably while wearing pants with an elastic waistband. You’ve earned it.
Iced Shaken Espresso (Starbucks Copycat)
This recipe mimics Starbucks’ version, using simple ingredients you likely have at home. It’s quick, customizable, and delivers that coffee shop taste without the price tag.
Ingredients
- 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
- 1–2 tbsp simple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- ½ cup ice cubes (the louder they clink, the better)
- ¼ cup milk (dairy, oat, almond—your call)
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract or caramel drizzle for flair
Instructions
- Brew the espresso.
- Shake it like a polaroid picture.
- Strain into a glass.
- Top with milk.
- Drizzle and sip.
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