Apple Crisp Macchiato À La Starbucks at Home

If you've ever wanted to recreate Starbucks' cozy Apple Crisp Macchiato in your own kitchen, you'll be thrilled to know it's easier than you might think. This warm, autumnal drink combines the rich boldness of espresso with the sweet-spicy notes of apple and cinnamon, all wrapped in creamy steamed milk. While the coffee chain's version might cost you $5 or more, you can craft this seasonal favorite at home for a fraction of the price.

Key Takeaways

• Heat apple cider with cinnamon, then layer with freshly brewed espresso and steamed milk in a glass.
• Use whole milk or oat milk for the creamy texture signature to Starbucks' version.
• Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and ground cinnamon for authentic café-style presentation.
• Experiment with maple syrup and apple cider ratios to match Starbucks' sweetness level.
• Ensure espresso has rich golden crema and milk is properly steamed for the best copycat results.

Why you'll love this recipe

Every coffee lover will appreciate how this Apple Crisp Macchiato brings the cozy flavors of fall right to your kitchen, saving you trips to the coffee shop while delivering the same delicious taste.

You'll find yourself mastering this recipe quickly, as it requires just a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

The best part is how customizable it's – you can adjust the sweetness, choose your preferred milk, and even make it dairy-free without compromising on flavor.

Whether you're craving a morning pick-me-up or hosting friends for coffee, this recipe lets you create cafe-quality drinks at a fraction of the cost.

Plus, you'll love the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen as you prepare it. Additionally, pairing your coffee with infused water can enhance hydration and support overall wellness throughout your day.

Ingredient notes

Now that you're ready to create your own Apple Crisp Macchiato, let's look at what makes each ingredient special in this recipe.

Your espresso forms the rich foundation, so choose a high-quality blend that'll stand up to the other flavors.

The milk creates that signature creamy texture, and you'll get excellent results with whole milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Apple cider brings authentic fall sweetness, but you can substitute apple juice in a pinch.

The caramel sauce adds that decadent touch you'll love, while ground cinnamon provides the warming spice that makes this drink truly cozy.

If you're feeling indulgent, keep some whipped cream on hand – it'll make your homemade version feel extra special.

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Origin of the recipe

The Apple Crisp Macchiato gained widespread popularity when Starbucks introduced it as a fall seasonal beverage in 2021, capturing the essence of everyone's favorite apple dessert in drink form.

You'll find this drink's roots in the classic Italian macchiato, which means "marked" or "stained" in Italian, referring to how espresso marks the steamed milk.

Starbucks' innovation team drew inspiration from traditional apple crisp desserts, combining warm spices and sweet apple flavors with their signature espresso blend.

They've created something that bridges the gap between comfort food and premium coffee. You can now recreate this beloved drink at home, joining thousands of coffee enthusiasts who've embraced this autumn-inspired creation as part of their seasonal traditions. Additionally, the use of infused waters has gained popularity for providing refreshing and health-conscious beverage options during the fall season.

How to make the recipe

You'll start by warming your apple cider with cinnamon in a small pot, creating the perfect flavor base for your macchiato.

Next, brew a fresh shot of espresso and steam your milk until it's frothy and warm, making sure to achieve that signature coffee house texture.

Finally, you'll layer these ingredients in a glass, starting with the cider mixture, followed by the espresso and steamed milk, then top it off with a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of cinnamon for the perfect finishing touch. This combination not only offers a delicious beverage but also provides health benefits that can nourish your body during colder months.

Step 1. Heat Cider With Cinnamon

Starting your Apple Crisp Macchiato journey requires warming the apple cider and cinnamon together in a small saucepan over medium heat.

As you stir the mixture gently, you'll notice the comforting aroma of autumn filling your kitchen. Let the cider simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which allows the cinnamon to fully infuse into the liquid.

You'll want to watch the temperature carefully, as overheating can make the cider too concentrated. Once you see small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan, that's your signal that it's ready.

Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly before combining it with your espresso. If you're making multiple servings, you can prepare this mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Step 2. Brew Fresh Espresso Shot

Brewing a perfect shot of espresso serves as the foundation for your Apple Crisp Macchiato, bringing rich coffee notes that'll complement the warm apple and cinnamon flavors.

If you're using an espresso machine, start by grinding your beans fresh and tamping them firmly into your portafilter, aiming for about 18-20 grams of coffee.

Pull your shot for 25-30 seconds, looking for that rich golden crema on top.

If you don't have an espresso machine, don't worry – you can use a Moka pot or brew extra-strong coffee using your favorite method. You'll want about 1-2 ounces of coffee that's concentrated enough to stand up to the milk and apple flavors.

Remember to pre-warm your cup to keep your drink hot longer.

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Step 3. Steam and Froth Milk

With your espresso ready, the next step involves creating that perfect, velvety milk that'll give your Apple Crisp Macchiato its signature creamy texture.

Pour your chosen milk into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it's steaming, but not boiling. If you're using a milk frother, you'll want to froth until the milk doubles in volume and develops a silky foam.

Don't have a frother? No problem! You can create foam by pouring your warm milk into a mason jar, securing the lid tightly, and shaking vigorously for about 30 seconds.

Once you've achieved your desired foam, let the milk rest for a moment to stabilize. The ideal temperature should be around 150°F, which is hot enough to maintain the foam but not so hot that it scalds.

Step 4. Layer Ingredients in Glass

The artful layering of ingredients transforms your Apple Crisp Macchiato from basic coffee into a café-worthy masterpiece.

Start by pouring your apple cider and cinnamon mixture into a tall glass, then carefully add your freshly brewed espresso shot. You'll notice the beautiful way these layers naturally separate.

Next, tilt your glass slightly and slowly pour the steamed, frothed milk along the side, allowing it to create distinct layers. As you pour, you'll see the milk settle into the middle, while the foam rises to create a lovely, cloud-like top.

Finish by drizzling caramel sauce in a spiral pattern over the foam, and if you're feeling extra indulgent, add a dollop of whipped cream. The result is a picture-perfect drink that's ready to be enjoyed.

Step 5. Add Garnish and Serve

Once your drink's layers have settled beautifully, it's time to add those final touches that make your Apple Crisp Macchiato truly special.

Top your beverage with a generous swirl of whipped cream, creating a cloud-like layer that'll slowly melt into your drink. Next, drizzle additional caramel sauce in a crisscross pattern across the whipped cream, letting it cascade down the sides of your glass for that perfect café-style presentation.

For the finishing touch, sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon over the top.

You'll want to serve your macchiato right away while the espresso is hot and the whipped cream is still perfectly peaked. Don't forget to provide a straw or long spoon so you can mix the layers as you sip.

If you liked this you may also like

Fans of this cozy apple crisp macchiato will likely enjoy exploring other fall-inspired beverages that blend coffee with seasonal flavors.

You'll love trying a Pumpkin Spice Latte, which combines espresso with creamy pumpkin and warming spices, or a Maple Cinnamon Latte that brings together rich maple syrup with a hint of cinnamon.

For something different, try a Caramel Pecan Coffee, where nutty flavors complement your favorite brew.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with a Chai-Spiced Coffee that adds cardamom, ginger, and cloves to your cup, or treat yourself to a Salted Caramel Mocha that perfectly balances sweet and salty notes.

Each of these drinks captures autumn's essence while offering unique coffee experiences you can create at home. Additionally, embracing flavors like maple syrup can enhance your seasonal beverages with natural sweetness and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Will the Frothed Milk Maintain Its Texture?

Your frothed milk's texture will hold up best for about 3-5 minutes before it starts to break down.

If you're quick, you'll catch that perfect, creamy consistency while it's fresh.

After that, you'll notice the bubbles slowly deflating and the foam becoming less stable.

For the best results, you'll want to froth your milk right before you're ready to use it in your drink.

Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Espresso?

Yes, you can use instant coffee, but you'll need to make it extra strong to mimic espresso's bold flavor.

For best results, dissolve 2-3 teaspoons of instant coffee in about 2-3 tablespoons of hot water.

While it won't perfectly match espresso's rich, complex taste and signature crema, it'll still give you a delicious drink that captures the essence of your apple crisp macchiato.

What Type of Caramel Sauce Works Best for This Recipe?

You'll get the best results with a thick, premium caramel sauce that's designed for coffee drinks or desserts.

Look for brands like Ghirardelli or Torani, which offer the perfect consistency and won't separate when mixed with hot beverages.

If you're in a pinch, you can use regular ice cream topping caramel sauce, but it might be a bit thinner and less rich in flavor.

Is It Possible to Serve This Drink Cold?

Yes, you can definitely serve this drink cold!

Simply prepare your espresso ahead of time and let it cool, then combine it with cold apple cider and cinnamon in a glass filled with ice.

Pour cold milk over the mixture, and top with caramel sauce.

If you're feeling extra indulgent, you can add cold foam or whipped cream for that perfect iced coffee experience.

How Many Calories Are in One Serving?

Your homemade Apple Crisp Macchiato typically contains around 250-300 calories per serving, though this can vary based on your choices.

If you're using whole milk, you'll add about 150 calories, while the espresso adds just 1-2 calories.

The caramel sauce contributes roughly 60 calories, and apple cider adds another 30-40 calories.

You can reduce the calorie count by using skim milk or sugar-free caramel.

Conclusion

You'll find this homemade Apple Crisp Macchiato brings the warmth of fall right into your kitchen, saving you money while letting you perfect the balance of flavors. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you're now equipped to create this cozy drink whenever the craving strikes. Whether it's for a crisp autumn morning or a relaxing evening treat, you'll love having this café-style recipe in your arsenal.