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Caramel Macchiato

Region: Modern Cafe Culture (Popularized globally by chains)
Brewing Time: 3 minutes (for espresso)
Total Time: 6 minutes
Indulgence: ☕️☕️☕️ (Rich)
The Story:
Macchiato means "stained" or "spotted" in Italian. However, the popular Caramel Macchiato is a sweeter, modern interpretation that inverts the classic espresso-to-milk ratio. It's a layered drink where espresso "stains" a base of vanilla-sweetened milk, finished with a crosshatch of caramel drizzle. It became a 1990s coffee shop staple.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Brewing time 3 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1-2 shots espresso
  • 1 tbsp vanilla syrup
  • ¾ cup steamed milk
  • Caramel drizzle

Equipment

  • 1 Espresso machine (with steam wand)

Method
 

  1. Add vanilla syrup to the bottom of a glass.
  2. Add steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.
  3. Gently pour the espresso shots over the back of a spoon so they float on the milk.
  4. Top with a dollop of milk foam and drizzle generously with caramel sauce.
  5. Pro Tip: For a true "stain," pour the espresso slowly over the milk foam. The key is creating distinct, photogenic layers.
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