The Ultimate Iced Shaken Espresso Recipe with Your Nespresso Vertuo

There’s something undeniably satisfying about an iced shaken espresso. Whether it’s the frothy, velvety texture or the way the ice-cold coffee hits just right on a warm day, it’s a yummy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. If you’ve got a Nespresso machine and a taste for a cool, refreshing coffee, this recipe is for you! Today, I’ll walk you through the steps to create a perfect iced shaken espresso with simple ingredients that’ll rival your favorite café’s version.

As soon as summer hits, I’m ready to turn my hot afternoon coffee into an iced version! This shaken espresso is absolutely delicious and hits the spot every time. I make this iced shaken espresso recipe with my Nespresso Vertuo because it’s quick and easy and I love the Double Espresso Dolce pod, but you can make it with a regular espresso machine. (New to the Nespresso Vertuo? It’s such a great coffee machine! I also make amazing iced coffee with it; check it out here.) I’m so excited to share this homemade version of a shaken espresso drink with you today. I think it’s even better than the Starbucks version at a fraction of the price!

What You’ll Need

• Nespresso Vertuo machine
• Nespresso Double Espresso Dolce pod (or brew 2 shots of espresso with a regular espresso machin)
• Your favorite syrup (vanilla, caramel, or even maple syrup)
• Ice cubes (about one cup)
• Milk of your choice (dairy, almond, oat, etc.)
• A tall glass with a lid (or a cocktail shaker or mason jar with a lid)
• A straw

See recipe card for quantities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Iced Shaken Espresso

1. Brew the Espresso

Start by brewing your espresso. Insert the Nespresso Double Espresso Dolce pod into your Vertuo machine. Place your drinking glass (one with a lid, which is important for the shaking process) under the machine’s spout. The Double Espresso Dolce is a rich, smooth coffee that’s perfect for this recipe, bringing a full-bodied flavor that stands up well to the ice and syrup. Alternatively, you can brew a double shot of espresso with the espresso machine of your choice, or use instant espresso powder and hot water.

Once your espresso is brewed, take a moment to inhale that delicious aroma. There’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly brewed coffee to wake up your senses and get you ready for the day ahead.

2. Sweeten It Up

Next, it’s time to add a touch of sweetness. Depending on your preference, you can add one to two pumps of your favorite syrup. If you love the classic taste of vanilla or caramel, those are great choices. For something a bit different, try maple syrup – it adds a delightful, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich espresso.

When adding the syrup, remember that a little goes a long way. Start with one pump, taste, and then add more if needed. It’s easier to add more sweetness than to take it away if you overdo it.

3. Add Ice Cubes

Now, fill your glass with ice cubes. A good rule of thumb is to add about one cup of ice. This not only chills the espresso but also helps create that wonderfully frothy texture when you shake it. Plus, who doesn’t love the satisfying clink of ice in a glass on a hot day?

4. Shake It Up

Here comes the fun part – shaking the espresso. Place the lid securely on your glass. If your glass doesn’t have a built-in lid, you can use a cocktail shaker or any other container with a lid that seals well. Now, give it a good shake for about 20-30 seconds. You’re aiming to create a golden, frothy mixture that’s well combined and thoroughly chilled.

Shaking the espresso with ice helps to aerate the coffee, giving it a lovely, smooth texture and a frothy top. This is what sets a shaken espresso apart from just an iced coffee – it’s all about that frothy, creamy consistency.

5. Add Milk and Enjoy

Finally, it’s time to add the milk. Pour in about half a cup of your desired milk. Whether you prefer the creaminess of whole milk, the nuttiness of almond milk, or the smoothness of oat milk, it’s all up to you. The milk not only cools down the espresso further but also adds a touch of creaminess that balances the coffee’s bold flavors.

Pop in a straw, give it a gentle stir to combine, and take a sip. Ah, perfection! The espresso is strong yet smooth, the syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness, and the milk rounds it all out with a creamy texture.

Tips for the Perfect Iced Shaken Espresso

• Use Cold Milk: For the best results, use cold milk straight from the fridge. This helps keep your drink refreshingly cold and adds to the overall experience.
• Adjust the Sweetness: The amount of syrup you use is entirely up to your taste. If you like your coffee less sweet, start with half a pump and adjust from there.
• Shaking is Key: The shaking process is crucial for achieving that frothy texture. Don’t skimp on this step – shake it well to get the best results.

Variations

• Experiment with Syrups: Don’t be afraid to try different syrups to find your favorite flavor combination. Hazelnut, cinnamon dolce, vanilla syrup, or even a hint of chocolate syrup can add a unique twist to your iced shaken espresso. You could even make your own homemade brown sugar syrup to add to this drink.
• Spice it Up: add a dash of cinnamon to the espresso before shaking for a delicious twist.
• Try Different Milk Alternatives: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options, try different types of milk to see which one you like best. Each type of milk will add its own unique flavor and texture to your delicious drink. Creamy oat milk is particularly good in a shaken espresso, and soy milk is also a nice twist.

Why Choose Nespresso Vertuo?

The Nespresso Vertuo machine is a fantastic choice for coffee lovers who appreciate convenience without sacrificing quality. The Vertuo system uses unique Centrifusion™ technology to brew the perfect cup of coffee every time. By spinning the coffee capsule at high speeds, it ensures that water is evenly distributed through the ground coffee, extracting maximum flavor and creating a rich, aromatic brew.

Additionally, the Vertuo system offers a variety of coffee and espresso options, so you can easily switch between brewing a single espresso shot, a double espresso, or even a full cup of coffee. This versatility makes it a great addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. I’ve had my Vertuo machine for years, and I have them in our vacation rentals as well. Our guests love them!

There you have it – a simple yet delightful recipe for an iced shaken espresso using your Nespresso Vertuo machine. This drink is perfect for those hot summer days when you need a refreshing pick-me-up, or any time you’re craving a cool, frothy coffee treat. With just a few simple steps, you can create a coffeehouse-quality beverage right in the comfort of your own home.

So go ahead, give this iced shaken espresso recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious, refreshing taste. And remember, the best part about making coffee at home is that you can customize it to your exact liking. Happy brewing!

Recipe Card