If you’re a Starbucks lover, you know how quickly those daily coffee runs can add up. But what if I told you that you could make one of Starbucks’ secret drinks at home for just $2? Yep, no need to spend $6 on your favorite indulgence anymore.
This copycat Starbucks drink is so easy to make, and you probably already have the ingredients in your kitchen. So, what’s the secret drink? It’s the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, a fan-favorite with a rich, caramel-like sweetness and creamy oat milk.
Let’s break down how to make this coffee-shop masterpiece at home—without breaking the bank!
Why Make Starbucks Drinks at Home?
There are a few solid reasons why making your own Starbucks drinks at home is a game-changer:
- Saves you money – $6 for a drink vs. $2 at home? That’s a no-brainer.
- Customizable – More sweetness, extra espresso, or a dairy-free alternative? It’s all up to you.
- No long lines – Skip the drive-thru and make your own in minutes.
- Healthier options – Control the sugar and ingredients to fit your diet.
Now, let’s get into the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple homemade Starbucks recipe only requires a few ingredients:
- Espresso or strong brewed coffee (1-2 shots)
- Brown sugar syrup (or homemade brown sugar + water)
- Oat milk (or your preferred milk)
- Cinnamon (for that warm spice flavor)
- Ice
That’s it! No fancy barista equipment, no expensive ingredients—just pure coffee magic.
How to Make a Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
Making this drink is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have your Starbucks fix in no time!
Step 1: Brew Your Espresso
If you have an espresso machine, brew one or two shots. No espresso machine? No problem! Just use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Syrup
If you don’t have store-bought brown sugar syrup, you can make it at home in under 5 minutes:
- In a small pot, mix ¼ cup brown sugar with ¼ cup water.
- Heat over low until the sugar dissolves.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Let it cool before using.
This homemade syrup is what gives the drink its deep caramel-like sweetness.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Now for the fun part—shaking!
- Fill a mason jar or shaker with ice.
- Add your brewed espresso and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the coffee chills and gets frothy.
Shaking the espresso helps create that velvety texture you love from Starbucks.
Step 4: Pour and Enjoy
- Fill a glass with fresh ice.
- Pour the shaken espresso over the ice.
- Top with oat milk (about ½ cup, or more if you like it creamier).
- Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon for the final touch.
And that’s it! A homemade Starbucks drink for a fraction of the price.
Tips for the Perfect Homemade Starbucks Drink
Want to make your DIY Starbucks drink even better? Here are some pro tips:
- Use quality coffee – A good espresso or strong coffee makes all the difference.
- Adjust sweetness – Add more or less brown sugar syrup based on your taste.
- Make a big batch of syrup – Store it in the fridge for future drinks.
- Experiment with milk – Try almond milk, coconut milk, or even regular dairy.
- Blend for a frappuccino – Want a frozen version? Just toss everything in a blender!
Other Starbucks Drinks You Can Make at Home
If you love recreating coffee shop drinks, here are more Starbucks-inspired recipes to try:
Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
A smooth, creamy cold brew topped with vanilla-infused sweet cream.
- Cold brew coffee
- Vanilla syrup
- Half & half or heavy cream
Mix, pour, and enjoy!
Caramel Macchiato
A classic espresso drink with vanilla, caramel, and steamed milk.
- Espresso
- Vanilla syrup
- Milk (steamed or frothed)
- Caramel drizzle
Matcha Green Tea Latte
For a non-coffee option, this creamy matcha latte is a must-try.
- Matcha powder
- Milk (hot or iced)
- Honey or vanilla syrup
Just whisk and sip!
Conclusion
Why spend $6 at Starbucks when you can make the same drink at home for $2? This Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is proof that you don’t need a barista to enjoy coffee-shop-quality drinks.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little shaking, you’ll have a delicious, budget-friendly Starbucks copycat drink—without leaving your house.
Try it today, and let your kitchen become your new favorite coffee shop!
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of oat milk?
Yes! Any milk—dairy or non-dairy—works for this recipe.
Do I have to shake the espresso?
Shaking helps make the drink frothy and smooth, but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use honey, maple syrup, or even white sugar instead.
Can I make this drink hot?
Absolutely! Skip the ice and warm the oat milk for a cozy, hot version.
How long does homemade brown sugar syrup last?
Stored in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to two weeks.
What’s the best coffee for this recipe?
A medium to dark roast works best for a rich, bold flavor.
Can I make this drink decaf?
Yes! Just use decaf espresso or coffee instead.
Do I need an espresso machine?
Nope! You can use instant espresso or strong brewed coffee.
Can I make a bigger batch?
Yes! Just double or triple the ingredients for a pitcher-sized portion.
What’s the secret to making it taste just like Starbucks?
The brown sugar syrup and shaking technique are key for that Starbucks-style flavor!
Now go ahead—skip the coffee shop and enjoy a homemade Starbucks drink for just $2!