Caramel Macchiato

WHAT IT IS

The Starbucks caramel macchiato is vanilla syrup, steamed milk, a double espresso poured on top (the macchiato part: the milk is "stained" by the espresso), and caramel drizzle. It is not a traditional macchiato. It is closer to a vanilla latte with caramel topping and an upside-down build.

HOW IT IS MADE

Vanilla syrup is added to the cup. Steamed milk is poured in. Espresso shots are poured directly through the milk rather than being combined first. Caramel drizzle is applied in a cross-hatch pattern on top.

WHAT IT TASTES LIKE

Sweet vanilla caramel with coffee notes. The espresso sits on top rather than integrating fully, so the first sips taste different from the last. Overall sweet, creamy, and distinctively caramel-forward.

WHEN TO ORDER IT

When you want a sweet, indulgent flavored latte. As a gateway espresso drink for those who like very sweet coffee beverages.

HOW TO ORDER IT

Say "caramel macchiato." For a properly mixed version, ask for it "upside down" so the espresso goes in first.

VARIATIONS

Iced caramel macchiato: over ice. Upside-down caramel macchiato: espresso first, which reverses the layering.

CAFFEINE

About 125mg for a 12 oz version with two shots.

According to Pulled Coffee data from 462,531 coffee shops worldwide, 15.9% of all coffee shops are classified as specialty — the type most likely to serve a proper Caramel Macchiato. In cities like Vancouver (4,175 specialty shops) and London (3,621), your chances of finding a great one are significantly higher than the global average.

Find a great Caramel Macchiato near you

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