Copycat Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato Recipe

What if I told you that replicating this delightful Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato treat is easier than you think? And here’s the best part: when made with Fairtrade ingredients, every sip becomes sweeter, knowing you are supporting ethical sourcing and sustainable farming practices.

How to make Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato

The Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato is a ready-to-drink iced coffee beverage that combines Starbucks’ signature espresso with creamy milk and sweet caramel flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Drink:

• Fairtrade espresso: 2 shots (choose a Fairtrade coffee brand for ethical sourcing; Starbucks also sells Fairtrade-certified options).
• Milk: 1 cup, any kind—dairy, oat, almond, or soy milk works well depending on your preference.
• Fairtrade vanilla syrup: 2 tablespoons (you can purchase Fairtrade-certified vanilla syrup or make your own using Fairtrade vanilla extract and Fairtrade sugar).
• Fairtrade caramel sauce: 1-2 tablespoons (look for caramel made with Fairtrade sugar or make your own—recipe below!).

For the Homemade Fairtrade Caramel Sauce (optional):

• Fairtrade sugar: 1 cup.
• Butter: 1/4 cup (or plant-based butter alternative).
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (or coconut cream as a non-dairy option).
• Pinch of sea salt.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Syrup

If you’re using store-bought vanilla syrup, skip this step. For homemade vanilla syrup:

1. Combine 1 cup of Fairtrade sugar, 1 cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of Fairtrade vanilla extract in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Let the syrup cool and pour it into a jar for storage.

Step 2: Brew the Espresso

1. Use your espresso machine (or stovetop espresso maker) to brew 2 shots of espresso using Fairtrade-certified coffee.
2. Don’t have an espresso machine? Try a strong brew on a French press or AeroPress for a similar effect.

Step 3: Steam the Milk

1. Heat 1 cup of milk in a microwave-safe container or on the stove until warm, but do not boil.
2. Froth the milk using a handheld frother or whisk vigorously until you achieve a creamy, foamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Drink

1. Add 2 tablespoons of vanilla syrup to the bottom of your cup.
2. Pour the steamed milk into the cup, reserving some foam for the top layer.
3. Slowly pour the espresso over the milk—the espresso “marks” the surface of the milk, just like a classic macchiato technique.
4. Drizzle Fairtrade caramel sauce generously on top for the finishing touch.

Optional Step: Make Your Own Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1 cup Fairtrade sugar, followed by 1/2 cup heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer.
3. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly (about 5 minutes).
4. Add a pinch of sea salt for a slight salted caramel twist.

Tips to Perfect Your Caramel Macchiato:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality Fairtrade coffee and sugar to enhance the flavors.
• Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce according to your taste preference.
• Get the Foam Right: Frothing the milk is essential for the authentic Starbucks experience. If you don’t have a handheld frother, shake warm milk in a jar with a tight lid to create foam.
• Layering Matters: Pouring the espresso last allows it to sit above the milk for that classic macchiato layer.
• Serve Hot or Iced: If you prefer an iced version, simply add vanilla syrup to a glass filled with ice, pour cold milk over it, and then layer the espresso on top, followed by caramel drizzle.

What to serve with

When enjoying a Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato at home, pairing it with complementary food items can elevate your coffee experience.

1. Sweet Pastries and Desserts

The caramel flavor balances perfectly with classic baked goods. Choose items that enhance or contrast the sweetness of the macchiato.

Options:

• Croissants (Plain, Almond, or Chocolate): A buttery, flaky croissant pairs beautifully with the creamy and caramel notes of a macchiato. The slightly savory profile of a plain croissant balances out the drink, while almond or chocolate provides complementary sweetness.
• Cinnamon Rolls: A warm, gooey cinnamon roll is an ideal partner for the macchiato. The cinnamon spice enhances the caramel flavor, while the sweetness matches the drink’s indulgence.
• Caramel or Pecan Bars: These nutty, caramel-laden treats match the macchiato’s caramel drizzle and add a delicious crunch.
• Shortbread Cookies: Buttery and mildly sweet shortbread cookies are a simple yet elegant pairing. Their crumbly texture complements the creamy drink.
• Macarons: The airiness of macarons, with flavors like vanilla, salted caramel, or hazelnut, can balance the richness of the macchiato.
• Cheesecake (Mini Slices or Bites): A small serving of vanilla or caramel cheesecake adds sophistication to your macchiato break. The smooth, decadent texture mirrors the drink’s velvety feel.

2. Savory Options

Savory snacks create a satisfying contrast to the sweetness of the macchiato, appealing to those who enjoy balanced flavor profiles.

Options:

• Quiche or Mini Savory Tarts: Opt for a slice of quiche (Spinach & Feta, Mushroom, or Ham & Cheese) for a brunch-inspired pairing. The saltiness and custard-like texture mesh well with the caramel sweetness.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: A light breakfast sandwich or English muffin (such as egg and cheese or avocado toast) provides a heartier option to enjoy with your drink.
• Bagels with Cream Cheese: A plain or lightly toasted bagel with cream cheese helps balance the sweetness of the macchiato while offering a satisfying snack.
• Savory Scones: Try a cheese and chive scone or a sun-dried tomato scone to introduce a savory contrast.

Ingredients Substitutes

The Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato is a delicious coffee beverage that combines espresso, steamed milk, vanilla syrup, caramel drizzle, and Fairtrade-certified coffee beans.

1. Espresso (Fairtrade-certified coffee)

Original Ingredient: High-quality espresso made from Fairtrade-certified coffee beans.

Substitutes:

• If you don’t have espresso, use strong brewed coffee or French press coffee with Fairtrade-certified beans.
• Instant coffee can work in a pinch—choose an ethically sourced instant coffee brand for authenticity.

2. Vanilla Syrup

Original Ingredient: Starbucks vanilla syrup is sweet and aromatic.

Substitutes:

• Homemade Vanilla Syrup: Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Bring water and sugar to a gentle boil until dissolved, then add vanilla extract.
• Store-Bought Vanilla Syrup: Look for syrups labeled Fairtrade or ethically sourced. If vanilla syrup is unavailable, you can use honey or maple syrup with a small amount of vanilla extract mixed in for a similar flavor.

3. Milk

Original Ingredient: Steamed dairy milk (usually whole milk).

Substitutes:

• You can use plant-based milk like almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Choose brands certified by Fairtrade or those that focus on sustainable practices.
• For the “steamed milk” consistency at home, gently heat the milk and froth it using a handheld milk frother or whisk manually.

4. Caramel Sauce/Drizzle

Original Ingredient: Starbucks signature caramel sauce.

Substitutes:

• Homemade Caramel Sauce: Combine 1 cup of sugar, 6 tablespoons of butter, and ½ cup of heavy cream. Heat the sugar in a pan until it melts, then stir in the butter and cream for smooth caramel.
• Store-Bought Caramel Sauce: Look for organic or ethically produced caramel drizzles.
• Maple syrup or honey can add sweetness if caramel sauce is unavailable, though it won’t replicate caramel’s distinct flavor.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Starbucks Fairtrade Caramel Macchiato isn’t just a drink—it’s a celebration of flavor, sustainability, and craftsmanship. By using Fairtrade-certified ingredients, you can enjoy every sip knowing that your coffee habit supports equitable trade practices and the people behind the ingredients. 

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Starbucks Horchata Syrup Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Brown Sugar Cold Foam Recipe
• Starbucks Pink Drink Strawberry Acai Coconut Milk Recipe