How To Make a Shakerato (Italian-Style Shaken Iced Coffee)

Ever had an iced coffee that just felt… ordinary? Sure, it’s cold and caffeinated, but sometimes it lacks that wow factor. That perfect balance of bold espresso and smooth refreshment.

I’ve always loved Italian coffee culture. Honestly speaking, they’re the true innovators when it comes to espresso-based drinks. For years, my go-to summer coffee fix was iced coffee, whether it was homemade or from Starbucks.

It got the job done, but it was never anything special. Then, I discovered something different: the Italian Shakerato.

One sip, and I knew this wasn’t just another iced espresso. It was smoother, silkier, and somehow more refreshing than anything I’d had before.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly what makes a Shakerato special, how it’s different from regular iced coffee, and how you can make one at home. So let’s start brewing!

What Is an Italian Shakerato?

The Shakerato is Italy’s answer to iced coffee, but don’t mistake it for a typical iced espresso.

Instead of just pouring espresso over ice, the Shakerato is shaken hard until it becomes silky, aerated, and delightfully chilled.

As a result, you get a frothy, ice-cold espresso drink that’s far smoother than traditional iced coffee, with a light, creamy texture that feels almost like a cocktail.

How Is It Made?

A classic Shakerato starts with a freshly brewed shot of espresso, poured over ice in a cocktail shaker. Some versions include a touch of simple syrup or sugar, but it’s totally optional.

After a vigorous shake (think 15-20 seconds of hard shaking), the mixture is strained into a chilled stemmed glass, like a martini or coupe glass, creating a sophisticated presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Shakerato

After experimenting (and, let’s be honest, messing up a few times), I’ve learned that the little things matter. So here are some pro tips:

1 – Chill Your Glass First

A cold drink deserves a cold glass. Pop your serving glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making your Shakerato. This keeps it colder longer and prevents it from warming up too quickly.

2 – Use Freshly Brewed, Hot Espresso

The shock of hot espresso hitting ice is what creates the magic. If the espresso sits too long before shaking, it loses its vibrancy and crema, leading to a flat and less flavorful drink. For this reason, you want to brew and shake immediately for the best results.

3 – Shake in a Metal Cocktail Shaker for Better Aeration

If you want that beautiful, frothy top layer, use a metal cocktail shaker instead of glass or plastic. The reason is metal chills the drink faster and helps create a lighter, airier texture. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels icy-cold in your hands.

4 – Try a Double Strain for Extra Smoothness

Want your Shakerato to be silky smooth with no tiny ice shards floating around? Use a fine mesh strainer when pouring into your glass. This extra step ensures your drink is perfectly refined and lets the espresso shine.

5 – Add a Citrus Twist

For a subtle, refreshing twist, try adding a drop of orange or lemon zest before shaking. The citrus oils complement espresso’s natural sweetness and add a hint of brightness without overpowering the coffee flavor.

Variations of the Italian Shakerato

You have so many ways to customize this drink depending on your mood. Whether you like it sweet, boozy, or creamy, these variations will take your Shakerato game to the next level. Anyway, here are a few of my favorites:

1 – Sweetened Shakerato

If you like your coffee with a hint of sweetness, this one’s for you. You add a bit of simple syrup, honey, or agave to balance out the boldness of the espresso without overpowering it.

I personally prefer simple syrup because it dissolves perfectly in cold drinks. However, honey adds a subtle floral note that works beautifully with espresso. Just 1-2 teaspoons is all you need!

2 – Alcoholic Shakerato (Shakerato Alcoholic)

A splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or Amaretto transforms it into an elegant coffee cocktail that’s perfect for after dinner.

• Amaretto gives it a nutty, slightly sweet kick
• Kahlúa betters the coffee flavor even more.

You shake everything together as usual and have a smooth, boozy espresso treat that feels like something you’d order at a fancy Italian bar.

3 – Shakerato with Milk (Shakerato Latte)

If you’re craving something a little creamier, adding a small amount of cold frothed milk is the way to go. It won’t be as heavy as a latte or cappuccino. But it gives the drink a smoother, silkier mouthfeel.

You can use regular milk, oat milk, or even almond milk. Whatever works for you.

Just a light pour after shaking will give your Shakerato a velvety texture without taking away its signature frothy top.

Last Thoughts

Have you ever tried a Shakerato before? Or maybe you’ve made a similar iced espresso drink with your own twist?

I’d love to hear how you enjoy yours! Drop a comment below with your favorite recipe, tips, or variations and with that voilà!