This Apple Crisp Macchiato is the ultimate Starbucks copycat drink! It’s crafted with a homemade apple molasses brown sugar coffee syrup, your choice of milk, and one (or two!) shots of espresso. Whether you enjoy it iced or hot, it’s simply delicious!
WHAT IS A STARBUCKS APPLE CRISP MACCHIATO?
Starbucks has just released its new lineup of fall drinks, and I couldn’t resist trying the Apple Crisp Macchiato since I adore anything apple crisp.
The hot version features steamed milk, apple syrup, brown sugar syrup, and espresso, while the iced version combines ice, milk, apple syrup, brown sugar syrup, and espresso. Both are finished with a delightful spiced caramel drizzle.
Although the drink was enjoyable, I felt inspired to put my own twist on it. I aimed to enhance the flavors of the apple crisp syrup, so…
HOW DO I MAKE APPLE BROWN SUGAR SYRUP?
For my apple brown sugar syrup, I wanted to capture the rich, deep flavors of apple crisp that embody the essence of fall.
Here’s what I used:
- Dark brown sugar: While you can use light brown sugar in a pinch, I prefer dark brown for its robust molasses flavor.
- Unsulphured molasses: This ingredient intensifies the flavor, adding a significant fall essence.
- Saigon cinnamon: Known for its strong flavor, Saigon cinnamon really enhances the apple crisp taste.
- Tart apple peels: I chose to use apple peels since they pack a lot of flavor without breaking down like apple slices during cooking. This way, I get all the apple flavor without needing to strain a lot.
To make the syrup, simply combine all the ingredients in a small pot, add some water, and let it simmer until reduced by about half.
Making your own coffee syrups is incredibly easy, and they taste so fresh and delicious! Once cooled, I like to store the syrup in a mason jar in the refrigerator, where it keeps well for up to two weeks.
HOW TO MAKE A STARBUCKS APPLE CRISP MACCHIATO
Ingredients:
- Homemade apple brown sugar molasses syrup
- Steamed milk
- Espresso
- Cinnamon sugar (optional, for topping)
- Caramel sauce (optional, for topping)
Step-by-step guide:
- Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of your homemade syrup to your mug.
- Pour in steamed milk.
- Top with a shot of espresso.
- If desired, finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
WHAT IS THE BEST MILK TO USE FOR A MACCHIATO?
The type of milk you choose for your macchiato often comes down to personal preference, but here are my favorites:
- Iced Macchiato: I love using whole milk or half and half. Half and half adds a rich creaminess that enhances the flavor in iced drinks, making it my ultimate favorite.
- Hot Macchiato: For a hot version, I prefer whole milk. It steams beautifully and really rounds out the drink. While half and half works well for hot macchiatos too, it feels less essential in warm drinks for some reason.
CAN I USE NON-DAIRY MILK FOR A MACCHIATO?
Absolutely! Non-dairy milk options are great for macchiatos. My personal favorite is oat milk, as it complements the flavors beautifully. Other excellent alternatives include macadamia nut milk, almond milk, or cashew milk. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find what you enjoy most!
