Shaken espresso has become a popular trend in the world of coffee thanks to Starbucks offering it in America, offering a refreshing alternative to your classic home made latte or iced coffee. The aeration of the espresso and the crema reacts in a way that creates a frothy and enjoyable cold drink on a hot summer day. With its intriguing combination of espresso shots, a touch of home made syrup, and either milk for a latte type drink or water for Americano, shaken espresso provides a delightful balance of bold and smooth flavours.
The process of shaking the ingredients together not only introduces aeration but also creates a delicate, frothy texture that enhances the overall experience. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, shaken espresso is certainly worth a taste. Keep reading to learn more about this delightful concoction, and discover how you can create your own perfect shaken espresso experience at home or at your favourite café.
What Is Shaken Espresso?
Shaken espresso is a delightful, refreshing coffee beverage that you can easily prepare and enjoy. It involves shaking espresso and other ingredients, such as ice and sometimes sweeteners, to create a smooth, frothy, ice-cold delight. This popular caffeinated concoction may be enjoyed simply by combining espresso with ice, or you can elevate it by adding elements such as sugar, flavoured syrups, milk or cream. It is a versatile and delectable choice for coffee enthusiasts seeking a cool and revitalising beverage during warm weather or any time of year. Prepare a shaken espresso with the following steps:
- Prepare a freshly brewed espresso using your preferred method.
- For a sweeter option, add sugar, honey or your desired syrup to the hot espresso.
- Fill a cocktail shaker or a jar with a tightly fitting lid half full of ice cubes.
- Pour the espresso into the shaker, along with any additional flavourings, if desired.
- Close the lid securely and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds or until the mixture is frothy and icy cold.
- Strain the shaken espresso into an empty glass and savour your intriguingly effervescent and chilled treat.
This technique creates an indulgent experience, as the shaking process aerates the espresso and transforms its texture into a velvety and invigorating delight. Whether you're an experienced barista or just a passionate home brewer, you'll find that a shaken espresso is a splendid way to perk up your daily coffee routine.
Ingredients and Equipment
In order to make shaken espresso, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- Espresso beans
- Water
- Iced milk of your choice
- Sweetener, if desired
- Ice cubes
Ensure you have these necessary pieces of equipment:
- Espresso machine or Moka pot
- Shaker or mason jar with a tight lid
- Measuring spoons
- Glass or cup for serving
Start by selecting high-quality espresso beans for a richer flavour. The beans should be fresh, and you'll notice richer aromas and taste if you grind them right before brewing. When it comes to water, using filtered water makes a significant difference in the final result, as tap water can sometimes introduce off-flavours. You can choose your preferred milk for this recipe – dairy or non-dairy alternatives work well. Consider options like oat milk, soy milk, or almond milk to accommodate allergens and taste preferences.
Shaken Espresso Variations
As an espresso enthusiast, you might be intrigued to try different variations of shaken espresso. Let's explore some popular versions which include Iced Shaken Espresso and those made with alternative milks.
Iced Shaken Espresso
An Iced Shaken Espresso is a refreshing and delightful twist on the classic espresso. It's perfect for warm, sunny days when a hot coffee just doesn't hit the spot. To make an Iced Shaken Espresso, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare a standard espresso shot.
- Pour the hot espresso into a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake the mixture vigorously until chilled.
- Strain the shaken espresso into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top it off with a splash of cold water or a light dairy or non-dairy milk.
You can also customise your Iced Shaken Espresso with flavourings like caramel, vanilla, or hazelnut for an extra burst of taste.
With Alternative Milks
For those who prefer plant-based or lactose-free alternatives, there are plenty of milk options available to create a delicious shaken espresso. Some popular choices include:
- Almond milk
- Oat milk
- Soy milk
- Coconut milk
Each of these alternative milks provides its unique flavour profile and texture, so you can experiment to find the perfect match for your shaken espresso. Similarly, to create a shaken espresso with your chosen alternative milk, prepare an espresso shot, pour it into a shaker with ice, add your desired milk, and shake before straining into a glass.
How do you Shake the Espresso?
To make a shaken espresso, you will need a shaker, some ice, your freshly brewed espresso, and any additional ingredients you prefer, such as a sweetener or milk. Start by brewing your espresso using your preferred method. Once it's ready, set it aside and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare your shaker by filling it with ice. Add the cooled espresso to the shaker, along with any sweetener if you're using one.
All you need to create a beautiful shaken espresso drink. A shaker, espresso beans, ice and syrup.
If you want to create a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a milk substitute. Next, firmly secure the lid on your shaker and vigorously shake the mixture for 15-20 seconds. You're aiming to combine and chill the ingredients while creating a frothy, aerated texture. After shaking, carefully remove the lid and pour your shaken espresso into your chosen glass. For an optimal visual effect, use a clear glass that showcases the layers and frothiness of the drink. Finally, top it off with a few extra ice cubes if desired and enjoy! Here are a few tips and variations to consider for your shaken espresso:
- Experiment with different sweeteners, such as simple syrup, agave nectar, or maple syrup
- Infuse your drink with flavour by adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract
- Create a dairy-free version with almond, coconut, or oat milk
- Give it a refreshing twist by adding a splash of sparkling water or tonic
Brewing Techniques
In this section, you'll learn about essential brewing techniques that will help you master the art of making shaken espresso. We will cover how to make an espresso at home and compare cold brew and hot brew methods.
How to Make an Espresso At Home
Preparing espresso at home is a delightful experience, and with the right tools and techniques, you can enjoy your café-style coffee. Here's a quick guide:
- Get the right equipment: Invest in a good quality espresso machine and a burr grinder for precise grinding of the coffee beans.
- Choose fresh coffee beans: Opt for high-quality, freshly roasted beans to get the best flavour in your espresso.
- Grind the coffee beans: Grind the beans to a fine consistency, similar to the texture of powdered sugar.
- Measure and tamp the coffee grounds: Use about 18 grams of ground coffee for a double espresso shot, then gently tamp the grounds using a coffee tamper to provide even extraction.
- Brew the espresso: Start the machine and let the water flow through the grounds under pressure, extracting rich, bold flavours. It should take around 25-30 seconds to pull a perfect double espresso shot.
Now you're all set to create your shaken espresso. Fill a shaker with ice, pour in the freshly brewed espresso, add sweetener if desired, and shake vigorously. Strain the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Cold Brew Vs Hot Brew
When it comes to brewing coffee, the temperature at which you prepare your coffee plays a significant role in the overall taste and flavour profile. Let's compare cold brew and hot brew methods:
| Method | Flavour Profile | Brewing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Brew | Smoother and less acidic compared to hot brew, with a natural sweetness from the coffee beans | 12-24 hours |
| Hot Brew | Brighter, more pronounced acidity and a stronger presence of volatile compounds, providing a robust and complex flavour experience | 4-5 minutes |
Experiment with both brewing methods and find which one suits your taste preferences. Remember that for a shaken espresso, you'll need to start with a hot brew and then shake it with ice to make a refreshing iced coffee.
Popular Recipes and Tips
When you want to prepare shaken espresso, there are a few popular recipes and tips to keep in mind. To create a flavourful and refreshing drink;
1. Classic Shaken Espresso: Combine a double shot of freshly brewed espresso with a teaspoon of sugar or sweetener of your choice. Add ice and shake it in a cocktail shaker until well mixed and chilled. Strain into a glass and serve with a splash of cold water or a twist of lemon.
2. Shaken Espresso with Milk: Create a creamy version by adding a splash of cold milk (dairy or non-dairy) to your shaken espresso mixture before shaking. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences.
3. Iced Chocolate Shaken Espresso: Add a generous scoop of chocolate ice cream or powder to your espresso before shaking. This adds a touch of indulgence and creates a dessert-like drink.
To ensure your shaken espresso is perfect every time, follow these tips:
- Select high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans for the best espresso.
- Brew your espresso just before shaking to retain the fresh, bold flavour.
- Use a good-quality cocktail shaker with a tight seal to prevent spills and ensure a thorough mix.
- Experiment with different syrups and mix-ins to create new, unique flavour combinations.
With these recipes and tips, you can enjoy a delicious shaken espresso at home and share your new-found skill with friends and family. Enjoy!
Shaken Espresso FAQ
What is a shaken espresso?
A shaken espresso is a delightful, refreshing coffee beverage that combines espresso shots, ice, and other ingredients such as sweeteners or milk. The ingredients are shaken together, resulting in a frothy, aerated texture that provides a unique twist on traditional coffee drinks.
What container can I use to shake an espresso?
To shake an espresso, you can use a cocktail shaker or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Both options will help create the desired frothy, aerated texture when shaking the espresso and other ingredients together.
Is a shaken espresso the same as an espresso martini?
No, a shaken espresso and an espresso martini are different. While both beverages involve shaking espresso with ice, an espresso martini is a cocktail that typically includes vodka, coffee liqueur, and sometimes simple syrup. On the other hand, a shaken espresso is a non-alcoholic coffee drink that can be enjoyed with or without sweeteners and milk.
