If you love coffee and enjoy trying new ways to savor your daily dose of caffeine, the Caffè Shakerato is a must-know drink. This Italian coffee delight is both refreshing and elegantly simple — perfect for hot days or whenever you want a little café-style indulgence at home. But what exactly is a Caffè Shakerato, and how can you make one yourself? Let’s dive in.
What Is a Caffè Shakerato?
A Caffè Shakerato (pronounced “shah-keh-rah-to”) is essentially a shaken espresso served cold. Originating from Italy, this drink offers a fresh, frothy twist on your classic iced espresso. Instead of just pouring espresso over ice, the coffee is vigorously shaken with ice cubes and a touch of sugar to create a beautifully chilled, frothy, and slightly sweetened espresso cocktail.
Unlike iced coffee or cold brew, the shaking process aerates the espresso, giving it a creamy, velvety texture that feels both rich and light. It’s often served in a martini or small glass, making it look just as stylish as it tastes.
Why Is the Caffè Shakerato So Popular?
- Simple yet elegant: It’s a no-fuss recipe that transforms espresso into something special.
- Perfect for summer: It cools you down while delivering that bold coffee kick.
- Customisable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add flavor shots like vanilla or caramel.
- Instagram-worthy: Its glossy, frothy finish makes it as beautiful as it is delicious.
How to Make a Classic Caffè Shakerato at Home
Ready to impress your friends or just treat yourself? Here’s a quick and easy way from KopiGuide.com to make a Caffè Shakerato with just a few ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso
- 1-2 teaspoons of simple syrup (or sugar, to taste)
- Ice cubes
Equipment:
- A cocktail shaker (or any jar with a tight lid)
- A strainer (optional, if your shaker doesn’t have one)
- A small glass or martini glass
Step-by-Step:
- Brew your espresso: Use your espresso machine or stovetop moka pot to make two fresh shots. Hot and strong is the goal.
- Add sugar: While the espresso is still hot, stir in your simple syrup or sugar so it dissolves completely.
- Shake it up: Pour the espresso into your cocktail shaker along with a good handful of ice cubes. Seal the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want to chill the coffee fast and create that signature frothy texture.
- Strain and serve: Pour the shaken espresso through a strainer into a chilled glass. The foam should settle on top, giving it that elegant look.
- Optional (but highly recommended!) touches: Garnish with a twist of lemon peel or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair.
Variations to Try
- Flavoured Shakerato: Add a dash of vanilla extract, caramel syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon before shaking.
- Dairy or Non-Dairy: Some like to add a splash of milk, oat milk, or almond milk for creaminess.
- Alcoholic Version: For an after-dinner treat, add a shot of coffee liqueur or amaretto.
Final Thoughts
The Caffè Shakerato is the perfect way to enjoy espresso with a refreshing, frothy twist. It’s quick to make, customisable, and brings a little Italian café magic right to your kitchen.
Next time you want a cool coffee pick-me-up that’s more exciting than your usual iced coffee, give the shakerato a try — you might just find your new favourite coffee ritual.
