This Apple Crisp Macchiato is a delightful twist on your favorite coffee shop drink! Perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups, this recipe brings the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon together with rich espresso. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, this homemade version will surely impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious drink in no time.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it as a comforting morning beverage or serve it at gatherings for a unique treat.
- Rich Flavor Profile – The combination of apple, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Affordable – Making your own macchiato at home saves you money compared to coffee shop prices.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Apple Crisp Macchiato, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gather these essential items to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Serving glass
Importance of Each Tool
- Espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker – Essential for brewing rich and flavorful espresso needed in this recipe.
- Saucepan – Useful for making the apple molasses brown sugar coffee syrup, allowing all ingredients to meld perfectly.

Ingredients
This apple crisp macchiato is the PERFECT Starbucks copycat drink! Made with homemade apple molasses brown sugar coffee syrup, milk, and a shot (or two!) of espresso. Made iced or hot it’s delicious either way!
For the Syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsulphured molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tart apple peel
For the Drink
- Ice
- 2 tablespoons apple crisp syrup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 shot espresso
- Cinnamon sugar (for topping, optional)
- Caramel syrup (for topping, optional)
How to Make Apple Crisp Macchiato
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine water, dark brown sugar, unsulphured molasses, cinnamon, and apple peel over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Let it simmer for about 30 minutes until thickened.
Step 2: Brew Your Espresso
- While your syrup simmers, brew one shot of espresso using your espresso machine or stovetop maker.
- If you prefer an iced version, prepare your glass with ice beforehand.
Step 3: Assemble Your Drink
- In a separate glass, add 2 tablespoons of the prepared apple syrup.
- Pour in 3/4 cup of milk (steamed for hot drinks or cold for iced).
- Top with the brewed espresso shot.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top if desired.
- Drizzle caramel syrup over your drink for added sweetness.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Crisp Macchiato as a special treat any time of day!
How to Serve Apple Crisp Macchiato
Serving your homemade Apple Crisp Macchiato can elevate your coffee experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious drink.
Iced Apple Crisp Macchiato
- Serve over ice for a refreshing treat. The chilled espresso pairs perfectly with the sweet apple syrup, making it ideal for warm days.
Hot Apple Crisp Macchiato
- Enjoy it steaming hot for a cozy experience. The warm milk and espresso blend beautifully with the flavors of apple and cinnamon.
Topped with Cinnamon Sugar
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of flavor. This adds sweetness and enhances the aroma of spices in your macchiato.
Drizzled with Caramel Syrup
- A drizzle of caramel syrup can elevate the sweetness factor. It complements the apple flavors while adding a beautiful visual appeal.
In a Festive Glass
- Use clear or festive glassware to showcase the layers. This presentation makes it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
How to Perfect Apple Crisp Macchiato
Creating the perfect Apple Crisp Macchiato involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance your beverage:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apples and quality dark brown sugar make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Experiment with Milk Types: Try different milk alternatives like oat or almond milk for unique flavors.
- Control Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of apple crisp syrup according to your taste preference; you can always add more if needed.
- Brew Strong Espresso: A robust shot of espresso will balance out the sweetness from the syrups, providing depth.
- Chill Your Glasses: For iced versions, chill your glasses beforehand to keep your drink cool longer.
- Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes—consider using sliced apples or additional cinnamon sticks for decoration.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Crisp Macchiato
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Crisp Macchiato can enhance your beverage experience. Here are some delightful options:
-
Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Fluffy muffins infused with apple and cinnamon complement the drink’s flavors perfectly. -
Oatmeal Cookies
Chewy oatmeal cookies add a satisfying texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with coffee. -
Cheese Scones
Savory cheese scones provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the macchiato. -
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad refreshing palate between sips, enhancing the fruity notes in your drink. -
Granola Parfait
Layers of granola, yogurt, and fruits create a textural delight that balances nicely with coffee. -
Cinnamon Rolls
Warm cinnamon rolls drizzled with icing offer an indulgent treat that complements spiced beverages beautifully. -
Toast with Nut Butter
Spread almond or peanut butter on whole-grain toast for a healthy yet filling side option. -
Savory Quiche
A slice of quiche filled with vegetables offers a hearty addition that pairs surprisingly well with coffee drinks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Apple Crisp Macchiato can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Bold Flavor: Using too little apple crisp syrup can lead to a bland drink. Make sure to measure accurately for the best taste.
- Improper Cooling: If making an iced version, allow your espresso to cool enough before mixing with ice. This prevents dilution and maintains flavor.
- Milk Temperature: Overheating milk can ruin the texture. Aim for a warm temperature, not boiling, for the best foam and creaminess.
- Skipping Cinnamon Sugar: Neglecting the optional cinnamon sugar topping means missing out on added flavor and visual appeal. Sprinkle it generously before serving.
- Ignoring Storage Tips: Not storing leftover syrup properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store apple crisp syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 1-2 weeks for optimal freshness.
Freezing Apple Crisp Macchiato
- Freeze leftover apple crisp syrup in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
- Use within 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Apple Crisp Macchiato
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe mug, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about making an Apple Crisp Macchiato.
Can I make Apple Crisp Macchiato vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and ensure your syrups are dairy-free.
How do I customize my Apple Crisp Macchiato?
You can add more spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for extra flavor. Experiment with different milk types as well!
What is the best way to enjoy an iced Apple Crisp Macchiato?
Serve it over ice with chilled syrup and cold milk for a refreshing treat on hot days.
How long does the apple crisp syrup last?
When stored properly, your homemade apple crisp syrup will last in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Crisp Macchiato is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different spices or milk options to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, this drink is sure to impress! Give it a try today!
Apple Crisp Macchiato
Indulge in the warm, inviting flavors of an Apple Crisp Macchiato, a delightful homemade coffee drink that captures the essence of fall. This delicious twist on your favorite café beverage combines rich espresso with a homemade apple molasses brown sugar syrup, creating a cozy treat perfect for mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this recipe is easy to customize to suit your taste and can impress your friends and family without breaking the bank. Experience the comforting blend of apple, cinnamon, and creamy milk in every sip—your new go-to coffee delight awaits!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsulphured molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tart apple peel
- Ice (for iced version)
- 2 tablespoons apple crisp syrup
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 shot espresso
- Cinnamon sugar (optional topping)
- Caramel syrup (optional topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine water, dark brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, and apple peel over medium heat. Stir until dissolved and simmer for about 30 minutes until thickened.
- Brew Espresso: While syrup simmers, brew one shot of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop maker.
- Assemble Drink: In a glass, add 2 tablespoons of prepared apple syrup and pour in 3/4 cup of milk (steamed for hot or cold for iced). Top with brewed espresso.
- Add Final Touches: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and drizzle with caramel syrup if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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