Homemade Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer
By Kevin Cossairt
There’s something special about starting your day with a warm cup of coffee. For me, it’s not just about the caffeine boost—it’s about the ritual. Years ago, I fell in love with Starbucks’ Caramel Macchiato. That sweet, creamy, perfectly balanced flavor had me hooked. But let’s be honest, those daily coffee shop runs start to add up fast. That’s when I decided to try making my own caramel macchiato creamer at home. After a little experimenting (and a few too-sweet batches), I finally nailed the perfect recipe. Now, my mornings feel a little more indulgent without the price tag—and you can enjoy it too!
This homemade Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer is rich and smooth with just the right amount of sweetness. The caramel flavor shines through, balanced by a hint of vanilla and espresso. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—you only need a few simple ingredients and about 10 minutes. Whether you prefer a classic version, a sugar-free option, or a dairy-free twist, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: It’s smooth, velvety, and full of sweet caramel goodness.
- Easy to Make: Just a few ingredients and a saucepan, and you’re done!
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, swap out ingredients, and make it your own.
- Healthier Option: You control the ingredients—no artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Budget-Friendly: Save money by skipping the coffee shop and making your own at home.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Start by warming your milk and cream in a small saucepan over low heat. You don’t want it to boil—just warm it through until you see a little steam. Next, whisk in the caramel sauce, vanilla syrup, instant espresso powder, and sugar (or sweetener). Keep stirring until everything is completely dissolved and smooth. Let it simmer for about 3–5 minutes, but don’t let it boil. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Once it’s ready, let it cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about a week—just give it a good shake before using.
Pro Tips: For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra teaspoon of espresso powder. If you prefer a thinner creamer, use more half-and-half and less condensed milk. Want to make it sugar-free? Swap out the sweetened condensed milk for heavy cream and a sugar-free sweetener. And if you’re dairy-free, coconut milk and almond milk make excellent substitutes.
Exciting News!
If you love homemade coffee creamers, you’ll want to check out my new cookbook, 70+ Irresistible DIY Homemade Coffee Creamer Recipes—edited by my wife, Rachael! This collection includes over 70 delicious and creative creamer recipes, from classic flavors like Vanilla Bean Bliss and Caramel Delight to seasonal sensations like Pumpkin Spice Latte and Peppermint Mocha Magic. Whether you’re looking for keto-friendly, sugar-free, or dairy-free options, this book has something for every coffee lover. Available now on Amazon!
Final Thoughts on the Recipe
This homemade Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer has completely transformed my morning coffee routine. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and strength to suit your taste. Try drizzling a little extra caramel on top for that true coffee shop vibe. This creamer also makes a great gift—just pour it into a cute bottle and tie it with a ribbon. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought creamers!
Homemade Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer
Description
Skip the coffee shop and enjoy a rich, creamy Caramel Macchiato at home with this easy-to-make creamer! Whether you prefer the classic, sugar-free, or dairy-free version, this recipe will give you that signature Starbucks taste with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Classic Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (Ghirardelli Sea Salt Caramel Sauce is delicious!)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or instant coffee
Sugar-Free Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons sugar-free caramel syrup
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free vanilla syrup
- Stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to taste
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder or instant coffee
Dairy-Free Starbucks Caramel Macchiato Creamer
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (or oat milk)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 3 tablespoons dairy-free caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder or instant coffee
Instructions
Instructions (For All Versions):
- Heat the Base:
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the milk and cream (or dairy-free alternatives), stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. - Add Flavor:
Stir in the caramel sauce, vanilla syrup, instant espresso powder, and sweetener. Whisk until everything is completely dissolved and smooth. - Simmer (But Don’t Boil):
Continue heating for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. Do not let the mixture boil — you want it warm, not bubbling. - Cool and Store:
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use
☕ How to Make a Starbucks-Style Caramel Macchiato
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1–2 shots espresso from an espresso maker (or 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water)
- ¼ cup homemade caramel macchiato creamer
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions:
- Heat the Milk:
Warm or froth the milk until hot and frothy (microwave works too). - Mix:
Pour the warm milk into a cup and add ¼ cup of your homemade caramel macchiato creamer. - Add Espresso:
Prepare 1–2 shots of espresso (or dissolve the instant espresso in hot water) and pour over the milk mixture. - Finish with Caramel:
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for that true Starbucks-style touch. - Stir and Enjoy:
Stir gently and sip away!
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Try this recipe and let me know what you think! Happy brewing! ☕
