Apple Crisp Macchiato– Easy Starbucks Copycat

This is a straightforward homemade version of the Starbucks Apple Crisp Macchiato — not too sweet, a little cinnamon-y, kinda like drinking apple pie if it had espresso and a reason to exist. Good for cold mornings, lazy afternoons, or those “why am I still awake” nights.

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Quick Summary

• Prep time: 5 mins
• Cook time: 20 mins
• Flavor: warm apple, cinnamon, bold espresso
• Great for: late night comfort, fall vibes, tiny kitchen resets

Why I Like This Recipe

Didn’t even plan to make this. I was scrolling through TikTok, saw someone pour syrup over foam, and next thing I knew I was chopping an apple in my pajamas. Whole thing came together kinda by accident. But the combo of the espresso with that apple-cinnamon thing? It weirdly felt like a warm hug and a pep talk at the same time.

I’ve made it three nights this week. Not sorry.

Ingredients

For the apple crisp syrup:

• 1 cup apple juice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup chopped apple
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For the brown sugar syrup:

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup water

For the drink part:

• 1 cup milk (2% is fine, oat milk’s nice too)
• •½ oz brown sugar syrup
• ½–1 oz apple syrup (depends how apple-y you want it)
• 2 oz espresso (or just really strong coffee)

How To Make Apple Crisp Macchiato

1. Apple syrup: Toss all the apple syrup stuff in a small pot. Bring it to a boil, then simmer for about 20 mins — I just let it do its thing while I cleaned up some dishes I was ignoring. Let it cool a bit, then strain it. You’ll be left with this golden, spicy syrup that somehow feels like wearing a scarf inside.
2. Quick brown sugar syrup: Microwave the water for like 30 seconds. Stir in brown sugar until it’s all melted. Boom. Done. I keep leftovers in a little jar for oatmeals and iced lattes and, uh, emergencies.
3. Milk froth = joy: Add brown sugar syrup to your mug. Froth your milk — I shook it in a mason jar, no shame. Microwave it for 30 secs after frothing to make it warm and extra fluffy.
4. Pour it over the syrup slow… like you’re being gentle with yourself or something.
5. Espresso goes last: Pour the espresso right over the milk. It’ll sort of melt into the layers, very dramatic and emotional. Don’t stir it. Just watch.
6. Apple drizzle: Drizzle that apple crisp syrup on top of the foam. I did a criss-cross because I was feeling extra, but you do you. Sip it slow. It’s not just a drink. It’s a pause.

Tips for Success

• Let the apple syrup simmer long enough — the flavor deepens
• Don’t skip the foam. Even if you just shake milk in a jar
• Use whatever coffee you’ve got, but espresso tastes best layered
• Optional: crushed graham crackers on top. If you’re into that.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Both syrups keep in the fridge for like a week in sealed jars.
• Reheat: Don’t really recommend reheating the drink. Just remake it fresh — it’s a quick one anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use store-bought apple syrup?
  You can, but homemade has way more flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and smells incredible.
• Do I need an espresso machine?
  Nope! Strong brewed coffee works fine — just make it bold so it holds up against the milk and syrup.
• Can this be made iced?
  Definitely. Just skip heating the milk, use cold espresso or cold brew, and pour it all over ice.
• What’s the best milk to use?
  Oat milk or 2% both froth well and taste great. Almond works too, but it doesn’t foam as much.
• How long does the apple syrup last?
  About a week in the fridge. Keep it in a sealed jar and shake before using.

Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them

• Boiling the milk:
  Nope — you just want it warm. Don’t scorch it, or it’ll taste weird.
• Not frothing the milk:
  Even a little foam makes a big difference in texture. Use a jar, a whisk, whatever.
• Over-sweetening:
  Start with less syrup — you can always add more.
• Pouring espresso too early:
  Layering is part of the vibe. Foam first, then espresso for that dramatic top float.
• Skipping the apple syrup:
  That drizzle on top pulls the whole thing together. Don’t skip it unless you’re out.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Potassium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 52g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 44g
• Protein: 5g

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