How to Make a Caramel Macchiato

Few drinks taste better on a hot day than an iced caramel macchiato. This sumptuous drink, which is a latte with added caramel and vanilla, is slightly sweet with a pleasantly yummy aftertaste. Rather than spending big bucks on a caramel macchiato at a coffeehouse, learn how to make one yourself in the comfort of your own home.

Things You'll Need

• Espresso
• Vanilla flavoring
• Ice
• Milk
• Caramel syrup
• Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Collect 2 shots from an espresso machine. Since a caramel macchiato is an espresso-based drink, this is the heart of the beverage. When making an iced caramel macchiato, cool the shots first. Never let cooled shots sit for more than 30 seconds.

2. Pump 2 squirts of vanilla flavoring into the bottom of a glass. Add ice; depending on your preference, you may use either crushed or cubed ice. Fill the glass with milk (for a low-calorie caramel macchiato, use skim or low-fat milk; if you are not counting calories, opt for 2 percent or whole milk. Whole milk is easiest to froth).

3. Drizzle caramel syrup over the top of the drink according to your personal preference. Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings if you are feeling particularly dangerous.

4. Whip up a hot caramel macchiato by changing the above recipe as follows. Pull 2 shots from an espresso machine but do not cool them. Steam your desired amount of milk to 150 degrees and add vanilla syrup (around 1 ounce). Top with milk foam; pour the espresso through the foam. Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the foam. Liberally add whipped cream and enjoy.