Starbucks Iced Shaken Espresso

If you're a coffee lover like me, be sure to try out my Starbucks' Toasted Vanilla Shaken Espresso recipe or my Starbucks Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino recipe.

Variations of Starbucks Iced Espresso:

• Change up the flavor. Go ahead and add in any flavored syrup that you’d like. I think vanilla syrup, brown sugar or hazelnut. You can also use any flavored espresso drinks at the store. You can also add a dash of cinnamon for a warm flavor. 
• Change up the espresso. If you love shaken espressos but you’re not the biggest fan of the strong coffee taste, try using a blonde espresso. It doesn’t have as much bite as the dark roast. 
• Change up the milk. You’re welcome to use your milk of choice for this recipe. Starbucks uses 2% milk as default but you can use cream or whole milk for a creamier texture. You can also use plant-based milks, I have found creamy oat milk gives the best consistency when making a shaken espresso. 

What do I need to make a Starbucks Iced Shaken Espresso?

Espresso: You can use any kind of espresso shot for this beverage. However, be sure that they’re cold or you will melt the ice in your recipe which will water it down. Starbucks has ground espresso coffee that you can make yourself at home, but they also have a canned double shot of espresso or bottled espresso that you can kind at your local grocery store. If you’re using the kind from the store, read the label to make sure you’re getting it without extra flavor, or cream. 

Simple Syrup: You’re welcome to use any kind of simple syrup. If you’re looking to get creative, you can always use different flavors of simple syrup. 

Ice Cubes: Any kind of ice will work but try not to use ice that is really small because it may melt quickly. You can also make your own ice cubes using an ice tray and fill it up with your favorite coffee and use those so as your drink melts, you get added coffee flavor instead of watering it down. 

For this recipe, you’re welcome to use any type of milk that you prefer. I like using 2% milk, but you can make this iced espresso drink vegan if you use non-dairy milk, like almond milk or soy milk, instead. 

How do I make a Starbucks Iced Shaken Espresso?

1. Brew 2 shots of espresso using your preferred method. Pour into a cocktail shaker with simple syrup and ice cubes.
2. Close the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine all the ingredients and chill the mixture.
3. Fill a glass with ice cubes then pour in the chilled espresso mixture. Top with the milk and more ice if needed.
4. Insert a straw and serve your homemade Starbucks-inspired Iced Shaken Espresso immediately.

Do I need an espresso maker?

No, you do not need an espresso maker for this recipe. However, if you’re looking to invest in an espresso maker, I love my Breville espresso machine. 

If you’d rather go the simple route, there are a few different options. You can either make your espresso by using Starbucks dark roast espresso ground coffee, or you can pick up already-made coffee at the store.

There are plenty of different bottled and canned espresso options. There are also plenty of flavors if you want to change the flavor of your drink up a little bit.

What is the difference between a shaken espresso and an iced latte?

Both, iced shaken espresso and iced lattes, are very similar in their ingredients, but the biggest difference is how they’re made. Iced Shaken Espresso drinks are made by adding the ingredients into a cup, and then shaking it with ice to make the beverage super cold, and then pouring it into a cup with ice.

A latte is combined by pouring your espresso into a cup with ice and then adding your milk on top. Another difference is that your shaken espresso will seem a little more frothy and have more of an intense coffee flavor. While your latte is a little less strong and has more milk in it. 

Can I make this Starbucks espresso recipe in advance?

Yes, this is a great recipe to make ahead of time and keep on hand. Add all of the ingredients into an airtight container, I find using a glass jar, like a mason jar the easiest, and you can keep it in your fridge for around 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, add it to a shaker with ice, shake, and then pour over a glass full of ice for a refreshing drink. 

Just keep in mind that espresso uses some of its delicious flavors as well as its caffeine content as it sits.

Starbucks iced shaken espresso recipe