Ina Garten’s 4-Ingredient Shakerato Is “Delicious Rocket Fuel”—I’m Making It All Summer Long

One of my favorite parts of Ina Garten’s show “Be My Guest With Ina Garten” is actually the beginning before her guest even arrives. It’s classic Barefoot Contessa, watching her prepare her home and refreshments for company.

This week’s guest was restaurateur Danny Meyer. Ina prepped a smoked salmon brunch ahead of time and saved assembling the drink until Danny arrived. It’s a total pro move—get the bulk of the work done ahead of time, but save an interactive moment to share.

When Ina pulled out a cocktail shaker, I expected her Contessa spin on a classic brunch cocktail. But she surprised me when she opted for a booze-free Italian-style iced coffee drink: Vanilla Coffee Shakerato.

It was the perfect choice for her guest since he spent considerable time in Italy, and was visibly excited when Ina shared what she was going to make for them. It demonstrates what a seasoned hostess Ina is, perfectly fitting her menu to her company.

How To Make Ina Garten’s Shakerato

Shakerato is a classic Italian coffee drink made with espresso and sugar shaken together with ice. Unlike a traditional iced coffee, it’s served up instead of on ice, making it easier to enjoy the foamy head that is created from the aeration and agitation.

True to form, Ina shares her updated version of the well-known classic. Her Vanilla Coffee Shakerato includes sweetened condensed milk and a splash of vanilla extract, making it just a bit more indulgent. It couldn’t be simpler to put together.

Add espresso, condensed milk, simple syrup, vanilla extract, and lots of ice in a cocktail shaker. Close the shaker and shake vigorously, until the drink is frothy and very cold. Pour it into glasses and serve immediately.

I love this drink for its versatility. Some time in the last few years brunch has become synonymous with booze, but that certainly doesn’t have to be the default. I am always on the lookout for drink recipes that don’t feel like a compromise since alcohol-free isn’t a punishment. Ina’s shakerato feels as fun and celebratory as any cocktail. Plus, it’s so refreshing, I will be enjoying it all summer long. This isn’t a Tuesday morning cup of Joe—Ina calls it “delicious rocket fuel.”

My Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Shakerato

• Shakerto is named so for a reason—you have to shake hard. This creates the shakerato’s signature foam. Otherwise, it’s just sweetened espresso.
• A classic shakerato doesn’t include sweetened condensed milk, so feel free to skip it if dairy is an issue. Opt for a vegan sweetened condensed milk—I like Nature’s Charm Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk.
• If you don’t have access to an espresso machine, a Moka pot is a great at-home option or use strong coffee.