How to Make the Starbucks Caramel Latte at Home

Dolce Flav

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Author:

Dolce Flav

Servings

1

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

5 minutes

This homemade Starbucks-style caramel latte is crafted with bold espresso, steamed milk, sweet caramel sauce, and a touch of caramel extract for deeper, more authentic flavor. Start by brewing strong espresso, heat and foam the milk until silky, then blend everything together with a rich caramel base. Finish with whipped cream and more caramel drizzle for a coffee-shop quality drink that’s smooth, sweet, and incredibly satisfying. This easy caramel latte recipe is perfect for busy mornings or cozy afternoons and delivers the ultimate Starbucks flavor right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

2 shots (2 oz) freshly brewed espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
1 cup whole milk (or oat/almond milk for non-dairy)
1 tablespoon caramel sauce, plus extra for topping
½ teaspoon caramel extract (adjust to taste)
1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

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Directions

Brew the Espresso: Brew 2 shots of fresh espresso using an espresso machine, moka pot, or strong brewed coffee if needed.
Prepare the Caramel Base: In your serving mug, add caramel sauce, caramel extract, and sugar (if using). Stir until well combined.
Steam or Heat the Milk: Warm milk on the stove or with a steam wand until hot but not boiling. Froth until creamy and foamy.
Combine: Pour the hot espresso over the caramel mixture and stir to dissolve completely.
Add the Milk: Gently pour in the steamed milk, holding back the foam. Spoon the foam on top.
Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream and drizzle caramel sauce for a Starbucks-style finish.

Recipe Note

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Name: How to Make the Starbucks Caramel Latte at Home
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 2 shots (2 oz) freshly brewed espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee); 1 cup whole milk (or oat/almond milk for non-dairy); 1 tablespoon caramel sauce, plus extra for topping; ½ teaspoon caramel extract (adjust to taste); 1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference); Whipped cream for topping (optional)

1. Can I make this without an espresso machine?

Yes. Use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder for a similar result.

2. What milk works best?

Whole milk froths best, but oat milk and almond milk create great foam too.

3. Do I need caramel extract?

Caramel extract boosts the flavor and makes it taste closer to Starbucks, but you can still make it without it.

4. Can I make this iced?

Absolutely—just use cold milk, skip heating, and pour everything over ice.

5. Can I reduce the sweetness?

Yes. Reduce the caramel sauce or omit added sugar.

6. What caramel sauce is closest to Starbucks?

Thick, buttery caramel sauces or store-bought coffee syrups work well.

7. How do I froth milk without a frother?

Shake warm milk in a jar, use a whisk, or blend with a handheld mixer.

8. Can I add flavored syrups?

Yes—vanilla or brown sugar syrups pair perfectly with caramel.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your caramel sauce is certified gluten-free.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and prepare in two mugs.