Salted Caramel Macchiato: Your New Favorite Comfort in a Cup

Indulging in a salted caramel macchiato is like savoring a luxurious treat in a cup. But what exactly is it?

Quick Answer: What is a salted caramel macchiato?

A salted caramel macchiato is a delicious espresso-based drink that combines the rich flavors of coffee, creamy milk, sweet caramel, and a hint of sea salt.

In this article, it’s time to explore the essential components needed to craft the perfect salted caramel macchiato.

I’ll guide you through the steps to make this delicious drink in your own kitchen. Let’s get started!

What is a salted caramel macchiato?

A salted caramel macchiato is a popular espresso drink that blends bold coffee with the rich sweetness of caramel and a touch of sea salt for a balanced, flavorful experience.

It’s loved for its creamy, layered texture and unique combination of sweet and salty flavors.

The layering in a macchiato means the espresso is poured over the milk, leaving visible layers of milk, coffee, and caramel on top.

Each sip creates a slightly different flavor—sometimes more coffee-forward and caramel-rich.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys both sweet and salty notes in their coffee and wants a cozy, indulgent drink with a unique twist!

What does a salted caramel macchiato taste like?

A salted caramel macchiato presents a delightful balance of flavors, combining sweet, salty, and creamy notes with the rich bitterness of espresso.

The warm, buttery sweetness of caramel coats the palate, reminiscent of toasted caramel candy, while a touch of sea salt enhances the sweetness and introduces a subtle savory edge.

The bold espresso provides a strong, roasted flavor that balances the drink’s sweetness with a slight bitterness, ensuring it doesn’t become overly sweet.

Meanwhile, the creamy texture of steamed milk adds a luscious quality, softening the espresso’s intensity and creating a smooth, comforting experience.

Each sip offers an indulgent and complex layered taste, making the salted caramel macchiato a perfect choice for those who appreciate sweet and savory flavors in their coffee.

What ingredients are used in this salted caramel macchiato?

The easy ingredients used in a salted caramel macchiato include:

• Espresso coffee or strong brewed coffee
• Whole milk: You can use dairy milk (whole, skim, or 2%) or non-dairy alternatives like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk
• Salted caramel sauce: Homemade caramel sauce or store-bought can both be used

These ingredients work together to create a deliciously balanced drink that combines sweet, salty, and creamy flavors with the boldness of espresso.

Read along to learn more about the best coffee you can use and an easy step-by-step guide!

Tip: Check out my 5-minute caramel sauce recipe here!

Which coffee can best be used?

The best coffee to use when making a salted caramel macchiato is a rich and bold espresso.

Here are some considerations for choosing the right coffee:

• Espresso: Authentic macchiatos are typically made with espresso, so using a high-quality espresso blend is essential. Look for blends with tasting notes that complement the sweetness of caramel, such as chocolate, nutty, or fruity undertones.
• Roast level: A medium to dark roast is ideal. Dark roasts have a bolder flavor that stands up to the sweetness of caramel, while medium roasts can add complexity with their acidity and sweetness.
• Freshness: For the best flavor, always use freshly ground coffee. To preserve its essential oils and flavor, grind the beans just before brewing.
• Brewing method: If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee or an AeroPress can be used as an alternative. Just make sure it’s concentrated enough to provide the bold flavor needed to balance the sweet and creamy elements.

Using a quality espresso will ensure that your salted caramel macchiato has the rich, robust flavor it needs to shine through the caramel and milk.

How to make a salted caramel macchiato at home

Making a salted caramel macchiato at home is easy and rewarding! The complete recipe is available further down.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to create this delicious coffee drink:

• Brew the espresso: Start by brewing 1-2 espresso shots using your espresso machine. If you don’t have one, you can use a strong coffee brewed from a French press or AeroPress.
• Froth the milk: While the espresso is brewing, heat your milk. You can do this in a saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave. Heat it until it’s hot but not boiling. (Check out this handy article for milk frothing at home)
• Mix the caramel: Add 1-2 tablespoons of caramel sauce to the bottom of your coffee cup. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your drink.
• Pour the milk: Slowly pour the steamed milk over the caramel, filling the cup. Use a spoon to hold back the foam initially, allowing the liquid milk to mix with the caramel.
• Add the espresso: Gently pour the brewed espresso over the milk. This will create a layered effect with the espresso sitting on top of the milk.
• Top with foam: Spoon the remaining milk foam on top.

Now, you can enjoy a deliciously flavored macchiato at home. Check out the full recipe below:

Conclusion

In conclusion, the salted caramel macchiato is a delightful fusion of sweet and salty flavors that brings a touch of café indulgence to your home.

With just a few simple ingredients—espresso, milk, and caramel sauce—you can easily recreate this beloved beverage to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Experimenting with different types of milk or caramel can add a twist to the recipe, making it uniquely yours.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a delicious salted caramel macchiato that will brighten your day!

Espresso-based recipes to try

• Easy French Vanilla Cappuccino Recipe You Can Make at Home
• Salted Caramel Mocha: What Is It & How to Make It at Home?
• Irish Cream Breve: An Easy 5-Minute Recipe to Try