Love iced coffee but want something smoother and frothier?
Meet the iced shaken espresso—a drink that’s taken over coffee shops and social media alike.
Originally inspired by the Italian “Shakerato,” this refreshing beverage combines bold espresso, sweetener, and ice, shaken to perfection.
The result? A chilled, frothy treat that’s easy to make at home.
Let’s look at what makes this drink special and how you can whip it up in minutes.
How to Make an Iced Shaken Espresso: At A Glance
- Brew: Prepare 1-2 shots of espresso or strong coffee.
- Shake: Combine espresso, ice, and sweetener in a shaker; shake vigorously.
- Serve: Pour over ice in a glass and top with milk of your choice.
- Customize: Add flavored syrups, spices, or cold foam as desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
What is an Iced Shaken Espresso?
An iced shaken espresso is a refreshing coffee drink made by shaking espresso with ice and sweetener, then topping it with milk.
Unlike regular iced coffee, which uses brewed coffee served over ice, this drink features espresso, giving it a bolder and more concentrated flavor.
The shaking process is what sets it apart.
By vigorously shaking the espresso with ice, air is incorporated into the liquid, creating a frothy texture and slightly lighter taste.
This method also chills the espresso quickly, ensuring the drink stays cold without excessive dilution.
The result is a balanced, smooth, and flavorful iced coffee experience that feels as indulgent as it is simple to make.
Ingredients Needed
Essential Ingredients
- 1-2 shots of espresso (or ¼ cup of strongly brewed coffee as a substitute).
- 1 cup of ice (plus extra for serving).
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener (e.g., simple syrup, brown sugar syrup, or maple syrup).
- ½ cup of milk (your choice: dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy).
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon of flavored syrup (e.g., vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut).
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Cold foam for a creamy topping.
- Alternative milks such as coconut or cashew milk for unique flavors.
Equipment Required
To prepare an iced shaken espresso, you’ll need just a few basic tools, with options to fit what you already have at home:
- Espresso machine: Ideal for brewing the concentrated espresso base.
- Alternatives for espresso: A Moka pot, AeroPress, or French press can be used to create a strong coffee if an espresso machine isn’t available.
- Cocktail shaker: Perfect for shaking the espresso with ice to create a frothy texture.
- Substitutes for a shaker: A mason jar with a tightly fitting lid or any sealed container works just as well for shaking.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Preparation of Espresso
- Brew the espresso: Use an espresso machine to pull a single or double shot (about 1-2 ounces). If you don’t have an espresso machine, brew strong coffee using a Moka pot, AeroPress, or French press. Aim for a rich, concentrated flavor.
- Choose the right beans: Opt for medium to dark roast coffee beans for a bold and balanced flavor. Freshly ground beans enhance the overall taste.
Step 2: Shaking Process
- Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker or a mason jar with a lid, add the freshly brewed espresso, 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener (e.g., simple syrup or brown sugar syrup), and 1 cup of ice.
- Shake vigorously: Seal the shaker or jar tightly and shake for about 15-30 seconds. This process cools the espresso quickly, incorporates air for a frothy texture, and blends the flavors.
- Achieve the froth: For best results, use plenty of ice and shake with force to create a creamy, frothy layer on top of the espresso.
Step 3: Assembling the Drink
- Fill your glass: Take a serving glass and fill it with fresh ice (about 1 cup).
- Pour the espresso: Strain the shaken espresso over the ice, leaving the frothy layer on top.
- Add milk and toppings: Pour ½ cup of your choice of milk (e.g., oat, almond, or regular dairy) over the espresso. Stir gently to combine. If desired, finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a flavored syrup, or cold foam for added flair.
Nutritional Information
For a single serving of iced shaken espresso, the nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients and customizations.
Here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard recipe made with one shot of espresso, 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener, ½ cup of 2% milk, and ice:
- Calories: 167
- Carbohydrates: 30g (mainly from sweetener and milk)
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g (primarily from milk)
If you use plant-based milks, the calorie and macronutrient content may differ.
For instance, almond milk has fewer calories, while oat milk contains more carbohydrates.
Adding flavored syrups or cold foam will also increase the calorie count.
Customization Options
Flavored Syrups
Adding flavored syrups is one of the easiest ways to customize your iced shaken espresso.
Vanilla syrup offers a smooth, classic sweetness, while caramel syrup adds a rich, buttery touch.
For a more complex flavor, try brown sugar syrup, which brings warmth and subtle molasses notes.
If you prefer something seasonal, options like pumpkin spice or gingerbread syrups can add a festive twist.
Milk Alternatives
The type of milk you use can dramatically change the flavor and texture of your drink.
Dairy options like whole milk or half-and-half create a creamy and indulgent base.
For a plant-based alternative, oat milk is a popular choice for its natural sweetness and smooth texture.
Almond milk offers a nutty flavor, while coconut milk adds a tropical hint.
Soy milk is another great option, especially for those who prefer a thicker consistency.
Each milk type pairs uniquely with the bold espresso, so feel free to experiment.
Additional Enhancements
Take your iced shaken espresso to the next level with a few creative add-ins.
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a spicy, aromatic touch.
For an extra indulgent experience, top your drink with cold foam for a creamy, café-quality finish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a shot of Baileys or your favorite liqueur can transform your drink into a delightful treat for special occasions.
Tips for the Perfect Iced Shaken Espresso
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your iced shaken espresso.
Always use freshly brewed espresso made from high-quality coffee beans for the best flavor.
Opt for medium to dark roast beans as they provide a rich and robust base.
If you’re using a sweetener like brown sugar syrup, homemade is ideal to ensure fresh, balanced sweetness.
For milk, whether it’s dairy or plant-based, choose a brand you enjoy drinking on its own for a smoother, creamier finish.
Choose the Right Ice
Ice is more than just a way to chill your drink—it affects the texture and flavor.
Large ice cubes are ideal because they melt slower, keeping your drink cold without diluting the flavor too quickly.
If you have access to clear, filtered water for making ice, even better.
Clear ice melts more slowly and enhances the overall presentation of your beverage.
Adjust Sweetness and Strength to Taste
Your iced shaken espresso should be as unique as your preferences.
Adjust the sweetness by starting with 1-2 tablespoons of syrup and adding more gradually if needed.
Similarly, you can tweak the strength of the coffee.
Use a double shot for a bolder flavor or reduce it for a milder taste.
The ratio of espresso, sweetener, and milk is flexible, so experiment until you find the perfect balance for your palate.
Serving Suggestions
An iced shaken espresso is perfect for any time you need a refreshing caffeine boost.
It’s a great choice for warm mornings when a hot coffee feels too heavy or as an afternoon pick-me-up to power through the day.
The drink also pairs wonderfully with light breakfast items like croissants, yogurt parfaits, or avocado toast.
If you’re enjoying it as a midday treat, consider pairing it with a sweet snack such as biscotti, a slice of banana bread, or a handful of mixed nuts.
For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside a dessert like tiramisu or chocolate chip cookies.
Conclusion
Making an iced shaken espresso at home is simple, customizable, and fun.
Experiment with flavors, milk options, and add-ins to create a drink that’s uniquely yours.
Share your variations or tips with us—we’d love to hear how you make this refreshing treat your own!
FAQs
What’s the difference between an iced shaken espresso and an iced latte?
An iced shaken espresso is made by shaking espresso with ice and sweetener, creating a frothy, smooth texture.
It typically has less milk, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor.
In contrast, an iced latte uses more milk and is stirred rather than shaken, leading to a creamier and milder drink.
How much caffeine is in an iced shaken espresso?
The caffeine content depends on the number of espresso shots.
A standard serving with one shot of espresso contains about 63 mg of caffeine, while a double shot doubles this amount to approximately 126 mg.
Can I store leftover iced shaken espresso?
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, as the froth and texture diminish over time.
If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
Shake well before serving, but note that the flavor and texture may not be as vibrant as when freshly made.
