Katie's Recipe Notes
An iced caramel latte has been my go-to coffee shop drink for years. But lately, I’ve realized I don’t love how overly sweet they can be. I still want that caramel flavor—just without the sugar overload.
When I first made my own caramel syrup, I knew I’d found the answer. It has real caramel flavor, it's not too sweet, and it blends perfectly into any cold coffee drink.
Made with just granulated sugar and water, a small batch of syrup costs pennies to make, keeps for weeks, and adds rich caramel flavor to any iced drink.
The result is an iced caramel latte that’s quick, easy, and honestly more satisfying than anything I’ve picked up at Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts’.
The Simple Ingredients You'll Need
- Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor, but cold brew or strong coffee works in a pinch.
- Caramel Syrup: I use my homemade caramel syrup made from just sugar and water—not to be confused with the thick caramel sauces you’d drizzle on a sundae.
- Milk of Choice: Use 2% milk or any milk you prefer, including dairy-free options like oat milk.
*See recipe card below for full ingredient quantities.
What I Use to Brew Great Espresso at Home
I use the Breville Barista Express to make espresso at home, and I love it. It’s a beginner-friendly espresso machine, with a built-in grinder and everything you need to get started.
Another option for your at-home espresso, is a Nespresso Machine. No new skills required, just pop in your favorite capsule and press the start button.
How to Make an Iced Caramel Latte
- Step 1: If you haven't already, make your caramel syrup. You can find the recipe linked in the recipe card below.
- Step 2: Add your cooled caramel syrup to a tall glass filled with ice.
- Step 3: Pour in your shots of espresso.
- Step 4: Top off with cold milk.
Recipe FAQs
You can certainly make a caramel latte with strong brewed coffee, but you'll likely not need quite as much milk. For a richer taste, try using cream instead of milk!
While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they’re actually quite different. Caramel syrup is a simple syrup made from just sugar and water—it’s thin, pourable, and perfect for drinks. Caramel sauce, on the other hand, is thicker and richer, usually made with sugar, butter, and cream—often used as a drizzle or on ice cream.
Absolutely! To make a hot caramel latte, just skip the ice and warm your milk instead. Brew your espresso, stir in the caramel syrup, and top with steamed milk.
More Homemade Coffee Drinks
If you’re into making your own coffee drinks at home, don’t stop here—my Iced Vanilla Latte recipe is another favorite!
Iced Caramel Latte with Homemade Syrup
Ingredients
- Ice
- 2 tablespoons caramel syrup
- 2 shots freshly brewed espresso
- 8 ounces 2% milk
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour in the caramel syrup.
- Add the freshly brewed espresso.
- Top with milk and stir to combine.
Notes
- Sweetness is subjective. Give your latte a sip and adjust the amount of syrup until it’s just right for you!
- Want It More Indulgent? Feel free to top your latte with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. My go-to is Torani Caramel Sauce.
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