Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso Copycat Recipe

My love affair with Starbucks’ Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso began on a sweltering summer afternoon when I was desperately seeking both caffeine and relief from the heat. Standing in line, I overheard someone order this lengthy-named beverage and was intrigued. That first sip was a revelation! The perfect harmony of robust espresso, rich notes of baked cinnamon, sweet brown sugar flavors, and the silky texture of oat milk. As someone who had recently discovered dairy didn’t agree with me, I was thrilled to find something so delicious that it didn’t leave me feeling unwell. After several weeks of indulging in this new habit (and watching my bank account dwindle), I set out to recreate it at home. After numerous attempts and adjustments to the ratios, this recipe captures the magic of my newfound favorite, allowing you to enjoy it for a fraction of the cost.

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Why This is the Best Iced Oat Milk Shaken Espresso Recipe

The secret to this beverage’s complex flavor profile lies in its carefully balanced components and preparation method. The brown sugar syrup incorporates both cassia and Saigon cinnamon—two distinct varieties that contribute different dimensions of warmth and spice. Simmering this mixture allows the cinnamon’s essential oils to fully infuse the syrup, creating depth beyond what simple stirring could achieve. The vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile by bridging the earthy notes of the cinnamon with the rich sweetness of brown sugar. But the true magic happens in the shaking process. Vigorously shaking the espresso with ice and syrup not only chills the mixture rapidly but also creates microscopic air bubbles that give the finished drink its characteristic light texture and subtle crema-like foam. This aeration transforms what would be a straightforward sweetened coffee into a sophisticated beverage with multiple layers of texture and flavor.

Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso Ingredients

For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup:

• Dark brown sugar – Provides rich molasses flavor and caramel-like sweetness
• Water – Creates the syrup base for dissolving sugar and spices
• Cassia ground cinnamon – Adds warming spice notes and familiar cinnamon flavor
• Saigon ground cinnamon – Contributes more intense, true cinnamon complexity
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor profile with aromatic sweetness

For the Shaken Espresso:

• Espresso – Delivers the robust coffee foundation and caffeine
• Ice – Chills the beverage and creates proper dilution when shaken
• Brown sugar cinnamon syrup – Provides the signature flavor
• Oat milk – Creates creamy texture with subtle sweetness and dairy-free profile

How to Make Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

How to Store Homemade Simple Syrup

You can store the cinnamon brown sugar syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Note the spices may start to lose their pungency within a few days. For the best flavor, use it within 72 hours.

Substitutions and Dietary Modifications

Coffee Alternatives:

• No espresso machine – Use double-strength coffee (brew twice as strong as normal)
• Instant espresso – Try Medaglia D’Oro or Café Bustelo instant espresso powder
• Cold brew concentrate – Provides a less acidic base with rich flavor
• Decaf options – Use decaffeinated espresso or coffee for a caffeine-free version

Milk Variations:

• Other plant milks – Substitute almond, soy, or coconut milk (barista versions work best)
• Dairy milk – Use whole milk for richness or 2% for a lighter option
• Half and half – Creates an extra indulgent, non-vegan version
• Flavored oat milk – Vanilla oat milk adds another layer of flavor

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Brown sugar syrup – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
• Optimal flavor window – Use syrup within 72 hours for the most vibrant cinnamon flavor
• Batch preparation – Make larger batches of syrup and store for quick daily drinks
• Pre-chilled espresso – Brew and refrigerate espresso ahead of time for faster assembly
• Room temperature serving – Allow refrigerated syrup to come to room temperature for easier mixing

Do you love Starbucks drinks? Try these copycat recipes!

• Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
• Caramel Frappuccino
• Caramel Macchiato
• Flat White Coffee
• Iced White Mocha
• Peppermint Mocha
• Pink Drink
• Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
• Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

More Coffee Drink Recipes

• Chick Fil A Frosted Coffee
• Dunkin Iced Coffee
• McDonald’s Caramel Cappuccino

Check out my easy drink recipes and the best Starbucks drinks recipes here on CopyKat!