Starbucks Iced Shaken Espresso Recipe

Discover the magic of Starbucks iced shaken espresso! Brew up a delicious sip of joy today.

By Matt Simmons

If you love the frothy, slightly sweet jolt you get from a Starbucks iced shaken espresso, you’re in for a treat. This quick recipe shows you how to recreate that same caffeinated pick-me-up at home without special barista equipment. You only need a handful of simple ingredients, a sturdy jar or cocktail shaker, and a few minutes to spare.

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to whip up this refresher in your own kitchen. Ready to get shaking?

What is a Starbucks iced shaken espresso

A Starbucks iced shaken espresso is basically a bold espresso shot taken to the next level by shaking it with ice and a touch of sweetener. Shaking the espresso helps it blend with the ice and sugar, creating a smooth, slightly creamy texture without needing any fancy creamers. The result is a refreshing yet strong coffee drink that’s perfect for mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Think of it as a cooler, frothier take on a standard iced latte. The shaking adds plenty of tiny bubbles, so each sip feels light, airy, and satisfying.

How to make a Starbucks iced shaken espresso

Ingredients

2 shots of espresso (or 2 ounces strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine)
1 cup of ice cubes
1 tablespoon simple syrup or your preferred sweetener
1/2 cup of milk (regular, almond, or oat all work well)
A pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder (optional topping)

Directions

Pull your espresso shots. If you don’t have an espresso machine, brew a strong cup of coffee using about double the amount of grounds you normally would.
Fill a cocktail shaker or sturdy mason jar halfway with ice.
Pour in the hot espresso and add the simple syrup (or sweetener) while it’s still warm.
Seal the shaker or jar tightly, then shake for 15 to 20 seconds. You’re aiming for a foamy, well-combined mixture.
Fill a glass with fresh ice, and strain in your shaken espresso.
Top off with milk, adding as much or as little as you prefer.
Sprinkle cinnamon or cocoa powder on top if you like an extra touch of flavor.

Nutrition facts

The exact numbers vary based on what milk or sweetener you use, but here’s a rough estimate for a single serving:

Calories: ~80–110
Total fat: ~2–4 grams
Carbohydrates: ~10–15 grams
Protein: ~2–4 grams
Caffeine: ~150 mg (depending on your espresso or coffee strength)

If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using a sugar-free syrup or cutting back on the sweetener.

Final thoughts about Starbucks iced shaken espresso

Making this shaken espresso at home is easier than you might think. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a coffeehouse-inspired drink right in your own kitchen. Shake up your morning routine or treat yourself in the afternoon for a flavorful energy boost. Plus, you’ll save money on those daily trips to the café.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Yes. Mix 1–2 teaspoons of instant coffee with a small amount of boiling water (about 2 ounces) to approximate espresso. Adjust the strength to your liking.
Do I have to use dairy milk?
Not at all. Almond, soy, or oat milk work well. Each brings its own unique sweetness and creaminess, so feel free to experiment.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use less syrup or switch to a sugar-free alternative. You can also skip the syrup entirely if you prefer a more robust coffee flavor.
Is this drink safe to store in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed immediately after shaking. The foaminess and freshness will diminish if stored for too long.

Give this recipe a try the next time the craving strikes, and enjoy customizing your homemade Starbucks iced shaken espresso to match your perfect flavor balance.