This Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is a sweet, frothy drink you can shake or stir at home—no syrup or espresso machine needed! Made with oatmilk and instant coffee, it’s a quick and easy homemade take on the Starbucks favorite.
Looking for another Starbucks copycat recipe? Try my Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins next.
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Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
I love this brown sugar shaken espresso recipe because it gives total barista vibes without the long lines or high price tag. Whether you’re looking to start your day strong or get a mid-day energy boost, it hits every time.
The fact that it’s made with instant coffee means it’s fast and easy too. One of the best parts? You can customize it however you like by using different types of milk or switching up the flavor. It’s iced and refreshing, with just enough warmth from the brown sugar to keep it balanced and satisfying.
What is a shaken espresso?
Shaken espresso is espresso poured over ice, then shaken (or stirred) to create a frothy, chilled drink with a smooth finish. My version mixes in brown sugar, cinnamon, and oatmilk for a sweet, spiced twist that’s easy to customize at home.
Ingredients
- Nescafé Gold Espresso instant coffee: This is what gives the drink its rich, coffeehouse-style flavor. You can use more or less depending on how strong you like it.
- Water: Use room temperature water to avoid bitterness and help the espresso dissolve easily.
- Brown sugar: Either light or dark brown sugar works here. It adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that pairs well with the cinnamon.
- Cinnamon: A pinch in the mix and a sprinkle on top brings cozy, spiced flavor to each sip.
- Vanilla oat milk: This adds creaminess and a hint of vanilla that balances the espresso.
- Vanilla oatmilk creamer: Optional, but it takes the drink to the next level with extra richness and sweetness.
- Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and creating that frothy top when shaken.
How to Make Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
I start by adding the Nescafé espresso powder to a cup or mason jar.
Then I pour in the water and shake it up with a lid. If I’m not using a jar, I’ll just stir it really well or use a milk frother to get everything fully dissolved.
Next, I stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until it’s all combined. Once that’s mixed, I add the vanilla oat milk and the creamer. I give it a quick stir to bring it all together.
Now it’s time for ice. I either stir it gently or pop the lid back on and give it another good shake to chill the drink.
If I’m feeling extra, I’ll top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before sipping.
Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso Tips
- Use room temperature water. Hot water can make instant coffee taste bitter, so stick with water that’s warm or just off the boil.
- Fully dissolve the instant espresso. If it’s not completely mixed in before adding the other ingredients, you’ll end up with clumps in your drink.
- Shake it hard. A good shake is what gives you that frothy top, even without a fancy espresso machine.
- Adjust the coffee strength. Start with 2 teaspoons of espresso powder, but feel free to use more or less depending on how strong you like it.
- Don’t skip the creamer. It’s optional, but I find it adds just the right amount of extra creaminess and sweetness to balance the espresso.
Shaken Espresso Customizations
- Dairy-Free: Use oatmilk, almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based option you like. Make sure it’s unsweetened if you want to control the overall sweetness of the drink.
- Flavor: Swap the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice, or add a splash of vanilla or maple extract. You can also use flavored creamers to switch things up.
- Sweetener Swaps: Instead of brown sugar, try maple syrup, coconut sugar, or date syrup. Keep in mind each one adds its own unique flavor and sweetness level.
FAQ
How much caffeine is in a brown sugar shaken espresso?
The amount of caffeine in a brown sugar shaken espresso depends on how much instant espresso you use. With 2 teaspoons of Nescafé Gold Espresso, you’re looking at roughly 120–140 mg of caffeine. You can adjust the amount up or down depending on your energy needs.
How many pumps of brown sugar are in shaken espresso?
A grande Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso from Starbucks typically has 4 pumps of brown sugar syrup. A tall has 3 pumps, and a venti has 6.
What if I don’t have instant espresso?
You can substitute with strong brewed coffee or a shot of espresso if you have a machine. Just make sure it’s cooled down slightly before shaking with ice.
More Copycat Recipes
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📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Nescafé Gold Espresso instant coffee adjust to your strength preference
- 4 ounces Water room temperature
- ¼ cup Brown sugar light or dark brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon Cinnamon more to sprinkle on top
- 6 ounces Vanilla oat milk substitute plain
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla oatmilk creamer optional but recommended
- Ice
Instructions
- Add the Nescafe espresso powder to a cup (or mason jar with a lids) and pour the water over it. Place the lid on top and shake it until combined, or use an electric milk frother or a spoon to stir it vigorously until the espresso is completely dissolved into the water.
- Now add in the brown sugar and cinnamon and mix it well. Stir in the vanilla oatmilk and the creamer until they are fully combined.
- Gently add in some ice and stir it, or place the lid on (if using a mason jar) and shake it up to chill the espresso.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. And Enjoy!
Notes
- Water Temperature: Using water that is too hot can make instant coffee taste bitter. Aim for just off the boil.
- Dissolving: Ensure the instant coffee is fully dissolved in the hot water before adding it to the shaker. This will prevent clumps.
- Froth: Instant coffee can still create a nice froth when shaken with ice, although it might not be as thick or stable as espresso crema. Shaking vigorously is key.
- Strength: Adjust the amount of Nescafé Gold Espresso powder to your preference. Start with 2 teaspoons and adjust for a stronger or weaker coffee flavor.
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