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Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso (Starbucks Copycat)

This Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is a smooth, lightly sweet Starbucks copycat made with bold espresso, rich brown sugar syrup, warming cinnamon, and creamy oat milk. Shaken over ice for that signature frothy texture, this refreshing iced coffee is easy to make at home and tastes just like the original—if not better.
Course Coffee, Drinks
Cuisine American
Keyword brown sugar coffee recipe, easy iced coffee recipe, homemade Starbucks drinks, iced brown sugar oatmilk shaken espresso, iced espresso recipe, iced oatmilk latte Starbucks, oatmilk coffee drink, shaken espresso recipe, Starbucks brown sugar shaken espresso, Starbucks copycat coffee recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 1 drink
Calories 120kcal
Cost $1.50 for entire recipe

Equipment

  • Espresso machine (or coffee maker for strong brewed coffee)
  • Small saucepan (for brown sugar syrup)
  • Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving glass
  • Spoon for stirring

Ingredients

Brown Sugar Syrup

  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon optional

Drink

  • 2 shots blonde espresso
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar syrup
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup ice
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup oat milk

Instructions

Make the brown sugar syrup

  • In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, and cinnamon.
  • Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.

Make the shaken espresso

  • Brew 2 shots of blonde espresso.
  • Add the hot espresso to a shaker or mason jar with the brown sugar syrup and ground cinnamon. Stir briefly to combine.
  • Add the ice, seal, and shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until chilled and slightly frothy.
  • Pour the shaken espresso and ice into a glass.
  • Top with oat milk.
  • Stir lightly if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use blonde espresso for the most authentic Starbucks flavor
    Starbucks uses blonde espresso in their Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, which creates a smoother, slightly sweeter coffee taste compared to regular espresso.
  • Brown sugar syrup gives the best texture
    Using homemade brown sugar syrup instead of granulated sugar prevents a gritty texture and helps the drink taste just like the Starbucks version.
  • Shake hard for the signature foam
    The key to a true shaken espresso is vigorous shaking. This creates a light, frothy top and properly chills the drink.
  • Don’t overdo the oat milk
    This is not a latte. Starbucks keeps this drink espresso-forward, so only use about ¼ to ⅓ cup oat milk for the best balance.
  • Barista-style oat milk works best
    For the creamiest texture and closest copycat result, use barista-style oat milk—it blends better and creates a smoother finish.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste
    Start with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar syrup, then add more if you prefer a sweeter drink.
  • Make the syrup ahead for convenience
    Brown sugar syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, making it easy to quickly prepare this drink anytime.
  • Cinnamon enhances the flavor
    A small amount of cinnamon adds warmth and depth, giving the drink its signature Starbucks-style flavor profile.