master-cooks | Shakerato: The Italian Iced Coffee Style You Can't Miss Out On

Shakerato is a refreshing Italian twist on iced coffee, known for its simplicity and vibrant flavor. Originating from Italy, this cool concoction is particularly popular during the warmer months when coffee enthusiasts seek a chilled alternative to their regular espresso. The preparation of a shakerato is both straightforward and somewhat theatrical, involving just a few key ingredients: freshly brewed espresso, ice cubes, and sugar or simple syrup to taste. The magic happens in the shaking process, where these components are vigorously combined in a cocktail shaker. This not only chills the espresso rapidly but also creates a delightful frothy layer, adding a creamy texture without the need for milk or cream. The result is a smooth, invigorating drink that balances the robust flavors of espresso with a subtle sweetness, making it both refreshing and satisfying. Typically served in a martini glass, the shakerato is as much a visual treat as it is a sensory delight. Its elegance and simplicity have made it a staple in Italian coffee culture, and its growing popularity worldwide is a testament to its unique appeal. Whether enjoyed as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a stylish after-dinner drink, the shakerato is an Italian coffee experience you won't want to miss.

Discovering the Shakerato

The shakerato has become so popular in Italy that it can be found on the menu of most bars and cafés throughout the country during the warm months, typically from spring until the end of April. While the exact origins of the drink remain unclear, the term "shakerato" — a blend of the English verb "shake" and the Italian suffix "-ato" — has been in use for many years.

As previously mentioned, preparing a shakerato is remarkably simple: just combine coffee, ice, and a sweetener like sugar or simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. The shaking process serves three main functions: it cools the beverage, ensures the sweetener is evenly mixed, and produces a frothy layer of sweet crema on top of the coffee. This creamy layer is the highlight of the shakerato, providing a luxurious texture that distinguishes it from a typical iced espresso.

Interestingly, even though it’s classified as an "iced" coffee, you won’t actually find any ice in the glass. Italians believe that excessive ice can disrupt digestion. Therefore, after shaking the coffee with ice to chill it, the ice cubes are strained out, leaving only the cool coffee in the cup. This is actually a benefit, as you won’t have to worry about your drink becoming diluted in the heat!

Making the shakerato at home

The shakerato is an excellent recipe for beginners looking to experiment with Italian coffee drinks at home. Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, instant espresso powder can be a suitable alternative. Allow the espresso to cool for a minute, then quickly transfer it into a pre-chilled cocktail shaker. It’s important for the espresso to remain hot so that the sugar dissolves more easily. Next, add your preferred sweetener to the espresso in the shaker.

Now it’s time to mix! Fill the shaker with ice, making sure it’s sealed tightly, and shake vigorously for about a minute to aerate and froth the coffee. When you’re ready to serve, strain out the ice using one half of the shaker or a straining spoon as you pour the creamy coffee into a chilled martini glass. Cheers!

Shakerato: The Italian Iced Coffee Style You Can't Miss Out On

Discovering the Shakerato

Making the shakerato at home

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