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This Pink Velvet Macchiato is a delightful way to bring a café-style treat right into your kitchen. Creamy white chocolate melted into milk blends perfectly with fragrant raspberry extract to create a soft pink base that is both beautiful and delicious. Layering this with a shot of espresso offers a show-stopping drink that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this recipe takes under 10 minutes and turns your everyday coffee moment into something special.
I first discovered this drink on a chilly afternoon when I wanted something sweet but not too rich. Ever since, it has become my go-to treat for cozy weekends and impressing friends with a pretty layered coffee drink.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Half a cup of milk: choose whole milk for richness or oat milk for a dairy-free option, always pick fresh and cold for best frothing
- Quarter cup white chocolate chips: these melt smoothly and add creamy sweetness without extra sugar& look for high-quality chips for a better flavor
- Half a teaspoon raspberry extract: the star of the show that gives the drink its fruity lift& opt for pure or natural extracts if you can
- One to two drops pink gel food coloring: optional but recommended for that vibrant pink hue& gel colors are more concentrated and won’t dilute the drink
- One shot of espresso or one ounce of strong brewed coffee: freshly brewed is best for that bold flavor and aroma
- Milk frother or a whisk: frothing creates the creamy foam that elevates this macchiato to café-level indulgence
- Optional toppings like whipped cream and raspberry drizzle add an extra touch if you want to get fancy
How to Make It
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Step one is to gently melt the white chocolate into the milk. Use a small saucepan over low heat to avoid scorching. Pour in half a cup of milk and add a quarter cup of white chocolate chips. Stir slowly and carefully until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture feels smooth and rich.
- Add Raspberry Extract and Color:
- Remove the pan from heat to prevent burning the milk. Stir in half a teaspoon of raspberry extract for that fruity aroma and flavor. If you want a beautiful pink color, add one to two drops of pink gel food coloring and mix well until the pink is uniform and soft.
- Froth the Pink Milk:
- Using a milk frother or whisk, whisk the pink milk until it becomes light and foamy. This step creates the creamy texture that makes the drink feel indulgent and café-quality.
- Brew the Espresso:
- While you froth the milk, prepare one shot of espresso or brew one ounce of very strong coffee. Freshly brewed espresso with its intense aroma works best here. Set the espresso aside but keep it hot for assembling.
- Assemble the Macchiato:
- Pour the frothed pink milk carefully into a clear glass mug so you can see the layers. Slowly pour the espresso over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass. This technique helps the espresso float on top of the milk foam, creating the signature layered effect. Top with whipped cream and a raspberry drizzle if you like for an extra special finish.
My favorite ingredient has to be the raspberry extract. It adds just the right touch of fruitiness without overpowering the white chocolate and coffee. A simple family moment that stands out is the time I made this for my niece who was learning to appreciate coffee flavors& she loved the pink color so much that sipping this drink made her feel grown-up and special.
Flavor Boosters
Storage Tips Store leftover pink milk in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating in the microwave at high temperatures—gentle warming on the stove keeps the texture smooth and creamy. Espresso is best brewed fresh but can be kept warm separately for an hour or so before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pink Velvet Macchiato with raspberry scones or a chocolate croissant to enhance the berry and sweet flavor notes. Fresh berries on the side bring a light and bright counterpoint. Buttered toast or simple pastries make this a perfect coffee break or weekend indulgence.
Creative Twists
In warmer months, chill your pink milk before assembling and pour over ice for a refreshing iced macchiato. Around holidays, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the milk for subtle warmth. In winter, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of freeze-dried raspberry powder for an elegant look and extra flavor.
This recipe is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy mornings or special coffee breaks.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I make this macchiato iced?
Yes, simply cool the frothed pink milk and pour it over ice before adding the espresso. It creates a refreshing iced twist without losing the creamy texture.
- → What if I don’t have raspberry extract?
Strawberry extract is a great substitute, offering a similar fruity flavor. Alternatively, omit it for a vanilla white chocolate version.
- → Can I use dairy alternatives for milk?
Absolutely. Almond or oat milk works well and keeps the drink creamy while catering to dairy-free preferences.
- → How do I avoid overheating the milk?
Heat the milk gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Scorching or curdling can occur if the temperature is too high, so watch closely.
- → Is gel food coloring necessary?
Gel coloring provides vibrant, rich tones without diluting the drink. Regular food coloring is usable but may result in a less intense color.