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starbucks apple crisp macchiato

Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato (Step-by-Step Recipe)

This one’s simpler than it looks. Just a few steps, a quick homemade syrup, and before you know it, your kitchen smells like fall: apple, cinnamon, and espresso all blending together.
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Total Time 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Small Saucepan:
  • Spoon or whisk:
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Tall Glass or Mug:
  • Optional: milk frother (for the hot version)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Apple Brown Sugar Syrup:
  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ cup apple juice or cider
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • For the Macchiato:
  • 1–2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong coffee)
  • ¾ cup oat milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 2–3 tablespoons apple brown sugar syrup
  • Ice (for iced version)
  • For the Topping (Optional but Delicious):
  • Caramel drizzle or extra syrup
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon or apple pie spice

Instructions
 

  • Step 1) Make the Apple Brown Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the apple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Place it over medium heat and stir occasionally as it simmers for about 5–7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens slightly and the kitchen smells like warm apple pie.
    Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Next, let it cool before using (it’ll thicken a bit more as it sits). You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
  • Step 2) Prepare the Espresso: Brew your espresso shots (or strong coffee if that’s what you have). Freshly brewed works best. The warmth helps blend the flavors better. I usually go with two shots when I want that real Starbucks kick. But one works fine for something lighter.
  • Step 3) Assemble the Drink: Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the apple brown sugar syrup first. Next, add the oat milk slowly for that pretty layered look. Then gently pour the espresso on top. It’ll ripple through the milk, giving it a cool look.
  • Step 4) Finish with a Topping: Drizzle a bit of caramel or extra syrup over the top and sprinkle with cinnamon (or apple pie spice if you’ve got it).
    It’s optional, but honestly, it makes the whole thing look and smell incredible. Sometimes I add a light dusting of nutmeg for extra warmth.
    And that’s it — your homemade Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato is ready to sip, layer, and love.

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