Starbucks baristas are now handcrafting three versions of this special beverage with the introduction of the new Vanilla Macchiato. Vanilla joins the popular Starbucks® Hazelnut Macchiato and Caramel Macchiato.

In Italian, “macchiato” simply means “marked” to describe how the steamed milk is topped with a shot of espresso.

The delicious, multilayered Macchiato begins with milk steamed until it’s stretched and smooth to bring out its natural sweetness. It’s topped by the dense, creamy foam. Then rich espresso is poured over and through the foam, where it mixes with the milk and creates a layered effect. Finally, the barista signs his or her work of art with a sweet drizzle made with a mix of brown sugar, butter, Madagascar Bourbon vanilla and a slight hint of salt. Customers may enjoy the Vanilla Macchiato hot or iced.

“Our baristas love to make the Starbucks Macchiato for customers. Pulling the perfect espresso shot, steaming milk into thick, velvety foam and finishing it off with pride ensures that each and every beverage reflects our passion, care and artistry,” said Cliff Burrows, Starbucks group president, U.S., Americas, and Teavana. “It’s our baristas who are at the heart of the promise we make to our customers - that they will receive the highest-quality beverages and delicious, wholesome food paired with an exceptional experience each and every time they’re in our stores.”

In Canada, Starbucks customers have their own special Macchiato that pays tribute to the country which produces 80 percent of the world’s maple syrup. Canada has introduced the new Maple Macchiato. The handcrafted Maple Macchiato consists of layers of vanilla, steamed milk, espresso shot and Maple topping made with real Canadian Maple Syrup found from the Beauce-Appalache region of Quebec.