Shaken Espresso with Vanilla Cold Foam: The $6 Coffee I Finally Learned to Make at Home
This post contains affiliate links. If you click and choose to buy, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
You know that feeling when your go-to coffee order just isn't hitting the same anymore? That's exactly where I found myself a few weeks ago. My usual, a shaken espresso with coconut milk and vanilla cold foam (you can probably guess which coffee chain it’s from) had become a $6 disappointment. Watered down, inconsistent, and honestly? Not worth the price tag anymore.
So I did what any coffee-loving, budget-conscious person would do: I bought myself a Nespresso machine with a milk frother and decided to crack the code myself.
The Trial and Error Phase
I'll be honest, my first few attempts were... educational. I went through more coffee pods than I'd like to admit, adjusting ratios, experimenting with ice, and learning that making cold foam is actually an art form. But after some persistence (and maybe a slight caffeine overload), I finally nailed it.
Here's the thing: my homemade version doesn't taste identical to the coffee shop version. It tastes better. Because now I'm in control. I can adjust the sweetness, choose my milk, and make it exactly how I want it, all while saving money and avoiding the long line and complicated order.
The Recipe That Changed My Afternoons
After plenty of experimentation, here's the winning formula:
Shaken Espresso with Vanilla Cold Foam
What You'll Need:
- Nespresso machine (or any espresso maker)
- Cocktail shaker or jar with lid
- Tall glass
For the Shaken Espresso:
- 2 shots espresso (I use a double Nespresso)
- 1-2 teaspoons brown sugar or simple syrup (this is optional)
- Ice cubes
- ½ cup coconut milk (or your milk of choice)
For the Vanilla Cold Foam:
- ¼ cup cold milk (I use 2% for the best foam, but coconut milk works too)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener (optional)
Instructions:
Make the Cold Foam First:
1. Add cold milk, vanilla extract, and sugar to your milk frother
2. Froth on the cold setting until thick and foamy (about 1-2 minutes)
3. Set aside while you make the espresso
Shake the Espresso:
1. Brew your espresso shots directly over the brown sugar or simple syrup in a small container
2. Stir to dissolve the sweetener
3. Fill your shaker with ice (about 1 cup)
4. Pour the sweetened espresso over the ice
5. Seal and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds – this is key for that signature frothy texture
6. Fill your glass with fresh ice
7. Strain the shaken espresso into the glass
8. Add coconut milk and stir gently
Top with Cold Foam:
1. Gently spoon the vanilla cold foam over the top
2. Let it cascade down the sides for that Instagram-worthy look
Tips I Learned the Hard Way
Ice matters: Use fresh ice in your serving glass. The ice from shaking gets diluted and will water down your drink.
Shake it like you mean it: A vigorous shake creates that signature frothy, slightly aerated texture. Don't be shy with it.
Cold foam consistency: Using 2% milk creates the most stable, thick foam. If you're using alternative milk, make sure it's a "barista blend" designed for frothing.
Sweetness level: Start with less sweetener than you think you need. You can always add more, but you can't take it away. I personally prefer a tiny amount brown sugar in the espresso itself.
Timing: Make the cold foam first so it has time to settle and thicken slightly while you prepare the espresso.
The Verdict
Is it more work than rolling through a drive-through? Sure. But is it worth it? Absolutely.
I'm saving at least $5 per drink (probably closer to $6 with how much they keep raising prices), I can make it exactly how I like it, and honestly? It tastes better. Plus, there's something satisfying about perfecting a recipe that used to seem so mysterious.
My routine now includes five extra minutes of coffee-making, but I actually look forward to it. It's become my little moment of calm during the quiet time in the afternoon.
If you've been feeling the same way about your coffee shop order, I highly recommend giving this a try. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Cheers ☕️