In case you’re a coffee lover, you’ve likely heard of or tried the Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso recipe. This drink, popularized by Starbucks, offers a bold, sweet, and also refreshing flavor that’s perfect for a caffeine boost. With a combination of espresso, brown sugar syrup, and a splash of milk, this coffee beverage is shaken over ice for a deliciously smooth, slightly frothy experience. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to recreate at home.
Whether you’re making this for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a brown sugar shaken espresso, including key ingredients, variations, and tips for perfecting it at home.
Learn more about the history and brewing methods of espresso here, and discover the unique qualities of brown sugar here in order to understand why it’s the perfect complement to espresso.
What is a Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso?
A Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is a cold coffee drink made by combining espresso, brown sugar syrup, ice, in addition to your choice of milk (commonly oat milk). The drink is shaken, creating a frothy texture that perfectly balances the rich, strong flavor of the espresso with the sweetness of the brown sugar syrup.
The drink has become especially popular due to its introduction by Starbucks, with their Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso becoming a fan favorite. This dairy-free version highlights the creaminess of oat milk, which pairs perfectly with the deep flavors of the espresso and syrup.
Additionally, for those curious about how oat milk became such a popular dairy alternative, check out more on Oat Milk Wikipedia.
Key Ingredients for Making Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
The simplicity of this drink is part of its appeal. In order to make your own Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso at home, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Espresso shots: Freshly brewed espresso is the key to achieving the rich, bold flavor that makes this drink special. You can use an espresso machine, a Moka pot, or even a French press in order to brew a concentrated coffee.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is the star of this recipe, providing a deep caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the strong flavor of the espresso.
- Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon enhances the complexity of the flavor, adding warmth and spice.
- Oat Milk: While any milk can be used, oat milk is the classic choice for a creamy, dairy-free version of this drink.
- Ice: High-quality ice helps cool down the drink quickly, giving it a refreshing finish.
Customizable Ingredients:
- Alternative Sweeteners: If you prefer something other than brown sugar, you can substitute it with maple syrup, honey, or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
- Different Milks: While oat milk is common, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or even regular dairy milk depending on your preference.
How to Make Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso (Step-by-Step)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, here’s how to make the perfect Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso:
1. Make the Brown Sugar Syrup
Ingredients:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine brown sugar and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add cinnamon if desired and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool. Store any leftover syrup in a sealed container in the fridge.
For more syrup ideas, you can experiment with adding vanilla extract or using honey instead of sugar. Check out this Hot Honey Recipe here for an interesting twist on sweeteners in beverages.
2. Brew the Espresso
- Brew 2-3 espresso shots using your preferred method. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka pot or a strong brew from a French press can also work.
3. Shake the Espresso
- In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, add the freshly brewed espresso, 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup, and ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The goal is to aerate the mixture, making it slightly frothy and well-chilled.
4. Pour and Add Milk
- Pour the shaken espresso over a glass filled with ice.
- Slowly add your preferred milk, typically oat milk, to fill the glass. Then stir gently and enjoy!
For a creative spin, pair this drink with a Sourdough Discard Recipe from SuziRecipes in order to make the perfect snack combination.
Variations of the Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe
One of the reasons the Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso has gained such popularity is its flexibility. You can tweak the recipe in order to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso (Starbucks Copycat)
Ingredients:
- 2-3 espresso shots
- 2 tbsp brown sugar syrup
- ¼ cup oat milk
- Ice
Instructions:
- Brew and shake the espresso as described above.
- Pour over ice and then top with chilled oat milk.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for added flavor.
This is the closest you’ll get to the Starbucks version at home!
2. Almond Milk and Honey Shaken Espresso
Ingredients:
- 2 espresso shots
- 1-2 tbsp honey
- ¼ cup almond milk
Instructions:
- Replace brown sugar syrup with honey.
- Shake the espresso with ice, then pour over a glass of ice and top with almond milk.
3. Spiced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
Ingredients:
- 2 espresso shots
- 2 tbsp brown sugar syrup
- A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
Instructions:
- Add nutmeg or cardamom to the shaker along with the espresso in addition to ice.
- Shake and then serve over ice with your preferred milk.
Additionally, for more ideas on how to incorporate spices into your coffee, explore recipes like Cinnamon Vanilla Syrup to elevate your drinks.
4. Mocha Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
Ingredients:
- 2 espresso shots
- 1 tbsp brown sugar syrup
- 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
Instructions:
- Combine brown sugar syrup with chocolate syrup and shake with espresso and ice.
- Pour over ice and then top with milk.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While indulgent, this drink can be modified to fit various dietary needs. The following is a breakdown of the nutritional content of a standard recipe:
Calories:
- A standard recipe with oat milk and brown sugar syrup contains around 120-150 calories, depending on the amount of syrup and milk used.
Sugar Content:
- Brown sugar syrup adds about 12-15g of sugar. You can reduce this by using less syrup or opting for a sugar-free alternative like stevia.
Health Benefits:
- Espresso is rich in antioxidants and offers a natural energy boost.
- Brown sugar provides a slight increase in minerals like calcium and potassium, though it should be consumed in moderation.
- Oat milk is a great source of fiber and is often fortified with vitamins like B12 and D.
For those looking for more healthy drink alternatives in particular, consider trying a Detox Juice here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes a Shaken Espresso different from a latte?
A shaken espresso is shaken with ice and syrup, which creates a frothy, light texture. A latte, on the other hand, is typically stirred and contains more milk, resulting in a creamier consistency.
2. Can I make this drink with regular coffee?
Yes, but using regular coffee instead of espresso will reduce the intensity of the flavor. You can make a strong brew using a French press or drip coffee maker as a substitute.
3. How long can I store brown sugar syrup?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, brown sugar syrup can last up to two weeks.
4. Is brown sugar healthier than white sugar in coffee?
Brown sugar contains trace minerals like calcium and potassium, but the health benefits are minimal. Both should be consumed in moderation.
5. Can I use dairy milk instead of oat milk?
Yes, dairy milk, almond milk, or soy milk are surely all excellent options. Each brings its unique flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts on Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
The Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is an incredibly versatile, flavorful drink recipe that is easy to make at home. Whether you’re making the Starbucks-inspired version or experimenting with different sweeteners and milks, it’s sure to become a favorite part of your coffee routine. The combination of rich espresso, sweet brown sugar syrup, and frothy milk makes this drink both refreshing and indulgent.
Finally, for more creative drinks and ideas, check out the Mint Lemonade Recipe on SuziRecipes, a perfect complement to your coffee!