Starbucks Copycat Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Sip this mellow, sweet espresso and feel the calm of a sunrise kitchen. Breakfast .

Creamy oatmilk espresso shaken with brown sugar, perfect for a cool morning boost.

Published: February 25, 2026
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Starbucks Copycat Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures
The origins of this drink trace back to the early 2010s when coffee chains began experimenting with plant‑based milks and flavored syrups to meet evolving tastes. The brown‑sugar‑sweetened espresso, originally a seasonal specialty, quickly became a staple for those seeking a dairy‑free, indulgent pick‑me‑up. Its popularity grew as oatmilk emerged as a favorite among baristas for its silky texture and subtle oat flavor, making it a perfect companion to rich espresso.

Why You'll Love It

  • - Simple ingredients you likely have at home
  • - No need for fancy equipment, just a shaker
  • - Creamy oatmilk adds a gentle nutty note
  • - Adjust sweetness to your mood

*"Wow, this version rivals the café's—smooth, sweet, and oh‑so‑comforting!"*

Essential Ingredient Guide

  • Oatmilk: Choose barista‑style oatmilk for extra froth and a richer mouthfeel; give it a gentle shake before measuring.
  • Brown sugar: Use dark brown sugar; its molasses deepens the caramel flavor and pairs beautifully with espresso.
  • Espresso: Freshly brewed, cooled espresso provides the bold base; avoid over‑extraction for a smoother taste.
  • Ice cubes: Large cubes chill the drink without diluting it too quickly; feel the crisp crack as you shake.
  • Vanilla extract (optional): A splash adds a comforting aroma, reminiscent of early mornings.
  • Sea salt (pinch): Enhances the sweetness and balances the caramel notes.

Complete Cooking Process

  • Ingredient Readiness:

    Measure oatmilk, brown sugar, and brew espresso ahead; let the espresso cool while you gather everything.

  • Flavor Development:

    Combine brown sugar with a splash of hot espresso to dissolve; the scent of caramelizing sugar fills the kitchen.

  • Texture Control:

    Shake vigorously over ice; the frothy swirl creates a velvety texture that feels indulgent.

  • Finishing Touches:

    Add a pinch of sea salt and optional vanilla; a quick stir brings everything together.

  • Serving Timing:

    Serve immediately in a chilled glass; the drink stays cool for about 10 minutes before melting.

  • Pro Tips

    • Use a metal shaker for a colder drink.
    • Pre‑chill the glass for extra refreshment.
    • Taste the sweetener before shaking; adjust if needed.
    • Add a dash of cinnamon for a warm whisper.

    I often pause after shaking, just to watch the tiny ice crystals glitter in the glass. It feels like a small celebration of the everyday. Yeah, a moment of stillness before the first sip can make the experience feel even more special.

Cooking Starbucks Copycat Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | Evlin Ardelo's Blog - Life, Style & Adventures

The essence of the dish:

It’s the delicate dance between a bold espresso and the mellow, oat‑infused creaminess, all rounded out by caramel‑rich brown sugar.

A fun fact or historical angle:

When oatmilk first entered coffee shops, it quickly replaced almond milk for its ability to steam and froth, making drinks like this a modern classic.

Flavor or sensory focus:

You’ll notice the sweet caramel aroma, the smooth mouthfeel of oatmilk, and the lingering espresso bite that wakes the palate.

You Must Know

  • Cold espresso keeps the drink crisp.
  • Brown sugar melts fully with hot espresso.
  • Shake until the surface is frothy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use soy milk instead of oatmilk?

Yes, soy milk works, but it has a slightly different mouthfeel and may not froth as smoothly.

→ How long can I store the brewed espresso?

Refrigerated espresso stays fresh for up to 24 hours; just re‑cool before shaking.

→ Is brown sugar necessary?

It gives the characteristic caramel note. You can substitute with maple syrup for a different nuance.

→ Can I make this drink hot?

Absolutely—skip the ice, warm the oatmilk, and stir the espresso and sugar together.

→ What if I don’t have a shaker?

A mason jar with a tight lid works just as well; shake vigorously.

→ Does the recipe work for a larger crowd?

Scale the ingredients proportionally and shake in batches; the flavor stays consistent.

Chef's Tips

If the drink feels too sweet, add a little extra oatmilk to balance.,For extra chill, pre‑freeze the glass for a few minutes.,A dash of espresso powder can boost the coffee intensity without extra liquid.

Nutrition Facts

per serving

210

Calories

5g

Protein

38g

Carbs

4g

Fat

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 120mg

Taste Profile

🍯 Sweet
Medium
🧂 Salty
Low
🌶️ Spicy
None
🍋 Sour
Low
🍖 Umami
Low

Sweet‑caramel coffee with a creamy finish

Ingredient Substitutions

Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives

Brown sugar Maple syrup

Use 1½ tbsp; the flavor becomes lighter, adjust to taste.

Oatmilk Almond milk

Will be less creamy; choose an unsweetened version.

Recipe Variations

Try these delicious twists on the original

Spicy Version

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a drizzle of honey for a gentle heat.

Mediterranean Style

Stir in a few drops of rose water and garnish with pistachio crumbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results

  • Using hot espresso, which melts the ice too quickly.
  • Over‑shaking, which can make the drink watery.
  • Skipping the pinch of salt, losing depth of flavor.

Meal Prep & Storage

Make Ahead Tips

Brew the espresso a day ahead, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge and shake with fresh oatmilk when ready.

Leftover Ideas

Re‑blend any leftover mixture with fresh ice; it stays smooth for up to an hour.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this with...

A light almond biscotti for subtle crunch Fresh berries that add a bright contrast A soft oatmeal cookie to echo the oatmilk theme

Cooking Timeline

0-3 min

Brew espresso, set aside to cool.

3-6 min

Dissolve brown sugar in warm espresso.

6-9 min

Add oatmilk, vanilla, and sea salt to shaker.

9-12 min

Shake vigorously with ice until frothy.

12-15 min

Strain into glass, garnish, and serve.

Starbucks Copycat Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Starbucks Copycat Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

A velvety, sweet‑and‑creamy iced espresso made with oatmilk and brown sugar, designed to capture the comforting feel of a Starbucks favorite without leaving the house.

Author: Emma Fields

Timing

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Cook Time

5 Minutes

Total Time

15 Minutes

Recipe Details

Category: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 2 Servings Servings
Dietary: Vegan

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 01 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
  • 02 1 cup oatmilk (barista style)
  • 03 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
  • 04 1 cup ice cubes

Optional Enhancements

  • 01 ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • 02 Pinch of sea salt
  • 03 Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Brew a strong shot of espresso and let it cool to room temperature; the aroma should linger softly.

Step 02

In a shaker, combine the cooled espresso with brown sugar; stir briefly until the sugar dissolves.

Step 03

Add oatmilk, a splash of vanilla if using, and a pinch of sea salt; then fill the shaker with ice.

Step 04

Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds, watching the froth rise like a gentle wave.

Step 05

Strain into a chilled glass over fresh ice, garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon, and enjoy slowly.

Notes & Tips

  • 1 If the drink feels too sweet, add a little extra oatmilk to balance.
  • 2 For extra chill, pre‑freeze the glass for a few minutes.
  • 3 A dash of espresso powder can boost the coffee intensity without extra liquid.

Tools You'll Need

  • Shaker or mason jar

  • Measuring spoons

  • Coffee grinder or espresso machine

  • Fine mesh strainer

  • Glasses

Must-Know Tips

  • Don’t over‑fill the shaker; room for ice expansion is key.
  • Let espresso cool before mixing, or the sugar won’t dissolve properly.
  • Taste before shaking; adjust sweetness to your own palate.

Professional Secrets

  • Use barista oatmilk for natural sweetness and better foam.
  • Shake on medium‑high speed to achieve a creamy micro‑foam.
  • Add a pinch of sea salt to brighten the caramel flavor.
Emma Fields

Recipe by

Emma Fields

“Mornings are my magic hour! I create easy, energizing breakfasts that turn sleepy starts into sunshine moments.” ☀️🥞

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