Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe

Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe

ByLila

I’ve always been a coffee lover, but the first time I tried a brown sugar shaken espresso, I was hooked. It’s the perfect balance of rich espresso, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of creamy oat milk, shaken to frothy perfection. I stumbled upon this drink at a local café and knew I had to recreate it at home. After some trial and error, I nailed a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re a busy mom needing a morning pick-me-up or a coffee enthusiast looking to impress, this drink is your new go-to.

Plus, it’s customizable to fit your vibe—want it dairy-free or extra sweet? I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into this indulgent brown sugar shaken espresso recipe that’ll make your kitchen feel like a trendy coffee shop!

Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Ingredients

  • 2 shots (2 oz) espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1/2 cup oat milk (or milk of choice)
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 tsp brown sugar syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Measuring spoons
  • Glass for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brew the Espresso: Pull two shots of espresso using an espresso machine. No machine? Brew strong coffee using a French press or pour-over method. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Sweet Base: In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and hot espresso. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Shake It Up: Toss in the ice cubes, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. You want a nice frothy texture, like a mini coffee party in there!
  4. Prepare the Glass: Fill a tall glass with fresh ice cubes. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the ice.
  5. Pour and Top: Strain the shaken espresso mixture over the ice. Slowly pour the oat milk on top, letting it swirl into the coffee. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Optional Sweet Touch: Drizzle a teaspoon of brown sugar syrup or sprinkle extra brown sugar on top for a caramelized vibe.
Best Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe

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Pro Cooking Tips

  • Fresh Espresso Matters: Use freshly brewed espresso for the boldest flavor. Pre-ground coffee loses its punch over time.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste before pouring the milk. Add more brown sugar if you like it sweeter, but don’t overdo it—the milk adds natural sweetness.
  • Shake Hard: The froth comes from shaking, so put some muscle into it. A mason jar works just as well as a shaker.
  • Milk Choices: Oat milk gives a creamy, nutty vibe, but almond, soy, or whole milk are great too. Warm the milk slightly for a cozy twist.

Variations

  • Iced Latte Style: Skip the shaking and blend everything in a blender for a smoother texture.
  • Mocha Twist: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the shaker for a chocolatey kick.
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk for a tropical flair or cashew milk for extra creaminess.
  • Spiced Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, autumnal vibe.

Storage Suggestions

  • Make Ahead: Brew espresso and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake with ice and milk when ready to serve.
  • Syrup Prep: Make a batch of brown sugar syrup (equal parts brown sugar and water, heated until dissolved) and store in the fridge for up to a month.
  • Don’t Freeze: The shaken texture doesn’t hold up in the freezer, so enjoy this fresh.

How to Serve

Serve in a tall, clear glass to show off the frothy layers. Add a reusable straw for sipping and a sprinkle of cinnamon for flair. Pair with a buttery croissant or a slice of banana bread for a café-style breakfast. It’s perfect for brunches, work-from-home breaks, or an afternoon treat.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~120 kcal
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Sodium: 50mg
    Note: Values vary based on milk type and sugar adjustments. Calculated using oat milk and listed ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this without an espresso machine?
Yup! Brew strong coffee using a French press or drip maker. Aim for a bold, concentrated flavor.

Is brown sugar syrup necessary?
Not at all. The brown sugar in the shaker does the job. Syrup just adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Can I use regular milk?
Totally! Whole milk, skim, or any non-dairy milk works. Oat milk is my fave for its creamy texture.

How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the brown sugar to 1/2 tbsp and skip the syrup. Taste before adding milk to adjust.

Can I make it hot instead of iced?
Sure thing! Skip the ice, warm the milk, and mix everything in a mug. Shake the espresso and sugar first for froth.

Conclusion

This brown sugar shaken espresso is your ticket to café-quality coffee at home. It’s quick, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving it at a brunch, it’s bound to impress. Play with the variations, tweak the sweetness, and make it your own. Grab your shaker, and let’s get brewing—your perfect coffee moment is just a shake away!

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