A “caffè shakerato” is a refreshing Italian coffee drink made by shaking a shot of espresso with ice and syrup, served in a martini glass.
This drink is perfect for hot days when you crave a chilled coffee. The shaking process creates a frothy and smooth texture, making it a sophisticated alternative to iced coffee.
Choosing a caffè shakerato means enjoying a cool and elegant coffee treat, ideal for summer afternoons.
To order it, say, “Vorrei un caffè shakerato, per favore.”
Ingredients
1 Espresso Shot + Syrup + Ice Cubes
How to order a Caffè Shakerato in Italy?
"Vorrei un caffè shakerato, per favore."
History and Origin
The caffe shakerato emerged in Italy during the mid-20th century as a refreshing twist on traditional Italian espresso. While espresso culture dates back to the early 1900s, the shakerato only gained widespread popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when Italian bartenders began experimenting with cocktail shakers to create chilled coffee drinks. The name comes from the Italian word “shakerare,” which simply means “to shake.” Unlike iced coffee traditions in other countries, the shakerato was born from Italy’s cocktail culture rather than its coffee bars. It became a staple across Rome, Milan, and Naples, especially during the scorching summer months when a hot espresso felt like too much. Today, it remains one of the most iconic warm-weather coffee drinks in all of Italy.
How It’s Made
Making a caffe shakerato is straightforward but requires good technique. A barista pulls a fresh shot of espresso and lets it cool for just a moment. Then the espresso goes into a cocktail shaker along with ice cubes and a small amount of simple syrup or sugar. The shaker is sealed and vigorously shaken for about 10 to 15 seconds until a frothy layer forms on top. The drink is then strained into a chilled martini glass or coupe glass, leaving the ice behind. The key to a great shakerato is shaking it hard enough to create that signature foam. Some baristas add the sugar directly to the hot espresso before combining it with ice, which helps it dissolve more evenly.
How to Order a Caffe Shakerato
When you walk into an Italian bar, simply say: “Vorrei un caffe shakerato, per favore” (vor-RAY oon kah-FEH shah-keh-RAH-toh, pair fah-VOR-eh). If you want it without sugar, add “senza zucchero.” For a boozy version, ask for “shakerato con [liquore name].” Most baristas will understand even a basic attempt at the phrase, so do not worry about perfect pronunciation.
When and Where Locals Drink It
Italians typically order a caffe shakerato during the hot months from May through September. You will find it on the menu at virtually every bar and cafe across Italy during summer. It is most popular as an afternoon pick-me-up, usually ordered between 2 PM and 5 PM. Unlike a morning espresso that Italians drink standing at the bar, a shakerato is often enjoyed while sitting down, making it a more leisurely experience. Coastal cities and southern Italy see the highest demand, but it is beloved everywhere.
Variations
The classic shakerato is just espresso, ice, and sugar, but several popular variations exist. A “shakerato con crema” adds a splash of cream for extra richness. The “shakerato al baileys” swaps simple syrup for Baileys Irish Cream, turning it into a dessert-like cocktail. Some bars offer a “shakerato al cioccolato” made with chocolate syrup. In recent years, specialty coffee shops have started making shakeratos with cold brew instead of espresso for a smoother, less acidic flavor. You might also see a “shakerato con latte di mandorla” (with almond milk) in southern Italy, especially in Sicily where almond milk is a local tradition.
Caffe Shakerato vs Iced Coffee
While both drinks involve coffee and ice, a caffe shakerato and standard iced coffee are very different. Iced coffee is typically brewed coffee poured over ice in a tall glass, resulting in a diluted, mild drink. A shakerato uses concentrated espresso that is shaken with ice and then strained, so no ice dilutes the final drink. The shaking process also creates a frothy, almost creamy texture that you never get with iced coffee. A shakerato is served in a small elegant glass, while iced coffee comes in a big tumbler. If you enjoy the affogato al caffe for its intensity, the shakerato offers a similar bold espresso flavor in a chilled format.
How to Make a Caffe Shakerato at Home
You do not need fancy equipment to make a shakerato at home. Brew a double shot of espresso using a Moka pot, espresso machine, or even a strong AeroPress. While the espresso is still hot, stir in one to two teaspoons of sugar until dissolved. Fill a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a tight lid) halfway with ice cubes. Pour the sweetened espresso over the ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Strain into a chilled martini glass or wine glass. The foam on top should be thick and creamy. For a richer version, add a tablespoon of heavy cream before shaking.
FAQ
What does shakerato mean?
Shakerato comes from the Italian verb “shakerare,” meaning to shake. It describes the method of preparation – espresso shaken with ice in a cocktail shaker.
Is a caffe shakerato sweet?
Traditionally yes, it includes simple syrup or sugar. However, you can order it “senza zucchero” (without sugar) if you prefer it unsweetened.
Can I make a shakerato without an espresso machine?
Absolutely. A Moka pot or AeroPress produces strong enough coffee to make a great shakerato at home. The key is using concentrated coffee, not regular drip brew.
