Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Your Favorite Coffee

The Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso has quickly become a beloved coffee drink worldwide, largely thanks to its popularity at coffee chains like Starbucks. But did you know that this trendy beverage has roots in a centuries-old coffee tradition? The concept of shaking coffee to create a frothy, smooth texture can be traced back to Italian “shakerato,” an iced espresso cocktail that’s shaken to perfection.

In recent years, Starbucks has brought this tradition into the spotlight with its iced brown sugar oatmilk shaken espresso, a combination of espresso, brown sugar syrup, and oat milk, resulting in a balanced yet bold flavor. Howard Schultz, the visionary behind Starbucks, has emphasized the company’s focus on innovation and personalization, making drinks like this an essential part of the modern coffee landscape.

This article will guide you through creating your own version of this iconic drink at home. Whether you’re a home barista or a beginner looking to elevate your coffee game, this recipe is designed to be simple yet sophisticated, offering a perfect balance of flavors that will impress any coffee lover.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, you’ll need the following ingredients. Be sure to select high-quality, fresh ingredients to get the best results.

Main Ingredients:

• Espresso: 2 shots (about 60ml) of fresh, strong espresso. Use a blonde espresso roast for a lighter, smoother flavor.
• Brown Sugar Syrup: 2 tablespoons of homemade brown sugar syrup (recipe below).
• Cinnamon: A pinch, for a warm and aromatic note.
• Oat Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml) of chilled oat milk. Use a barista-grade oat milk for the creamiest texture.
• Ice: A handful of ice cubes.

For the Brown Sugar Syrup:

• Light Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g).
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml).
• Cinnamon Stick: 1 stick for added warmth (optional).

Ingredient Notes:

• Espresso: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee made from a Moka pot or an Aeropress.
• Oat Milk: Look for oat milk brands that are specifically designed for coffee, as they tend to froth better and create a smoother consistency.
• Brown Sugar Syrup: Making your own syrup allows you to control the sweetness and flavor profile. You can substitute coconut sugar for a slightly different, caramel-like sweetness, or use maple syrup for a richer flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix 1/2 cup of brown sugar with 1/2 cup of water. Add a cinnamon stick if you prefer an extra layer of spice.
2. Heat and Stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Cool and Store: Remove from heat, let it cool, and store it in a glass jar. This syrup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Chef’s Tip: David Chang recommends making small batches of syrup frequently for maximum freshness. A fresh syrup keeps your coffee tasting vibrant.

Step 2: Brew the Espresso

1. Prepare the Espresso: Use your espresso machine to pull 2 shots of fresh espresso. If you’re using a blonde roast, you’ll get a milder flavor that pairs well with the sweet brown sugar syrup.
2. Alternative Method: If you don’t have an espresso machine, brew strong coffee using a Moka pot or Aeropress.

Chef’s Tip: Massimo Bottura emphasizes using freshly ground beans for the best flavor. Invest in a high-quality grinder to elevate your coffee experience.

Step 3: Shake the Espresso

1. Combine Ingredients in a Shaker: In a cocktail shaker (or a jar with a tight lid), combine the 2 shots of espresso, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, and ice.
2. Shake Vigorously: Shake for 20-30 seconds until the mixture is frothy and well-chilled.
3. Pour: Strain the shaken espresso into a tall glass filled with ice.

Chef’s Tip: Shaking the espresso creates a smoother texture and brings out the nuanced flavors of the beans, similar to an Italian shakerato. The shaking also adds air, creating a delightful frothy finish.

Step 4: Add the Oat Milk

1. Pour the Oat Milk: Slowly pour 1/2 cup of chilled oat milk over the espresso. You can add more or less oat milk depending on your preference.
2. Optional Topping: Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for garnish or drizzle with a bit of brown sugar syrup.

Chef’s Tip: For an even creamier texture, use a milk frother to lightly froth the oat milk before adding it to your espresso.

Cooking Skills & Tips

Mastering the Shake

Shaking espresso might sound simple, but it’s a skill that requires practice. To achieve the right consistency, here are a few tips:

• Ice Matters: Use larger ice cubes, as they melt slower and chill the espresso without watering it down.
• Proper Shaking: Shake vigorously for at least 20 seconds to properly aerate the espresso and create a creamy foam. This step is crucial in achieving the signature texture of the drink.

Perfecting Espresso Shots

• Grind Size: If you’re brewing espresso at home, the grind size is critical. A fine grind ensures the right pressure for pulling a perfect shot.
• Temperature Control: Aim for 200°F (93°C) when brewing espresso to extract the ideal flavor without burning the beans.

Common Questions & Answers

Q: Can I use a different milk?

Yes! While oat milk is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk for a different flavor. Each alternative will give you a unique texture and taste.

Q: Is there a vegan option?

This recipe is already vegan, but to ensure it remains so, make sure to use a plant-based brown sugar or replace it with maple syrup for the syrup.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

You can make the brown sugar syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. However, it’s best to brew the espresso and assemble the drink fresh for the best flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso contains approximately:

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 21g

This breakdown is based on using oat milk and homemade brown sugar syrup. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of syrup or opt for a sugar-free alternative.

Nutritional Insight: Catherine Tubb of Impossible Foods suggests that using oat milk in coffee drinks not only makes the drink creamy but also adds fiber, making it a more health-conscious choice compared to traditional dairy.

Conclusion

Making your own Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer it sweeter or with a stronger coffee kick, this recipe offers endless flexibility. Plus, the satisfaction of shaking up your own espresso drink will make you feel like a seasoned barista.

Now that you’ve mastered this, why not try experimenting with other flavors, like adding vanilla or nutmeg to your syrup? The possibilities are endless, and you’ll soon find yourself creating your own signature coffee drinks!

What’s your favorite coffee creation? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your experience with making this Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious coffee ideas and expert cooking tips.