Starbucks Recipes: How to Make Starbucks Espresso Drinks at Home

Are you a Starbucks fanatic? Do you crave espresso? Maybe it’s time to become your own Barista! Whether you’re tired of spending four bucks a day on a latte or planning a dinner party, learning to make Starbucks' specialty espresso drinks is easy and fun. This guide to Starbucks espresso drink recipes will help you make your favorite Starbucks drinks at home.

What you’ll need to make Starbucks espresso drinks:

1) An espresso machine. Starbucks, of course, sells espresso machines but they are pretty costly, ranging from 399$ to 1200$ (available on Starbucks.com). Wal-Mart has one for 29.86 (available on Walmart.com). Although quality does matter, if you’re just looking to have fun, any espresso machine with a steam wand will do.

2.) Espresso coffee ground for an espresso machine. You can buy a pound of espresso at Starbucks for 9.95. They’ll grind it for you, and you even get a free cup of coffee with it.

3) Milk. Whole milk, skim milk, soy milk, 2% milk- it’s your preference.

4) A large cup or pitcher to steam the milk in.

5) A thermometer to measure how hot the milk is.

6) A spoon.

7) Depending on the espresso drink you intend to make, you may need the following, which are available at most Starbucks stores or online at Starbucks.com: 

• vanilla syrup- for Vanilla Lattes, Hot Chocolates, and Caramel Macchiatos.


• mocha powder- for Café Mochas and Hot Chocolates.


• caramel sauce- for caramel macchiatos


• whipped cream (optional)

The Basics

Brewing Espresso
This varies greatly depending on your espresso machine. Read the manual carefully and learn how to brew 2 ounces of quality espresso.
*Tip: You may have to play around with the amount of espresso you put in and how hard you tamp it (press it) in order to get the perfect shots.