Drinks

Homemade Starbucks Apple Crisp Macchiato Recipe

ByElena Hart February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

Introduction

The Homemade Starbucks Apple Crisp Macchiato captures the cozy flavors of fall in a refreshing iced coffee drink. Bursting with apple, cinnamon, and caramel notes, it’s a delightful treat for any time of day. This recipe lets you bring café-style enjoyment right into your kitchen.

A clear glass filled with a three-layered iced drink sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is creamy white milk, smooth and thick, making up about half the glass. Above it, there is a gradient layer where the milk and dark coffee mix, creating a soft light brown swirled effect. The top layer is dark brown coffee with visible bubbles and foam, covering several clear ice cubes floating on the surface. A half apple with red skin and light yellow inside lies on the surface near the base of the glass. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups apple juice
2 tbsp brown sugar

1/8 tsp cinnamon
1 large apple, sliced

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup apple juice

3/4 cup water
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp apple flavoring (optional)
2 tbsp apple crisp syrup
3/4 cup 2% milk (or any milk of choice)

1 espresso shot
2 tbsp apple crisp drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Make the brown sugar apple syrup by placing the sliced apple in a medium saucepan. Top with 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup apple juice, 3/4 cup water, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.

Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 tsp apple flavoring if using. Let the syrup cool completely, then strain out the solids.
Step 3: Prepare the apple crisp drizzle sauce by combining 2 cups apple juice, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/8 tsp cinnamon in a medium saucepan.
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until the apple juice reduces to about 1/3 to 1/2 cup, which takes around 25-30 minutes on medium-high heat. Let it cool to room temperature; it will thicken to a syrupy consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the drink by filling a cup with ice. Add 3/4 cup milk and 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar apple syrup (use 3 tablespoons for a sweeter flavor).
Step 6: Pour the freshly brewed espresso shot over the milk mixture. Drizzle the top with 2 tablespoons of the apple crisp drizzle.
Step 7: Stir gently, snap a picture for the gram if you like, and enjoy your homemade apple crisp macchiato!

Tips & Variations

Use your favorite milk alternative like oat or almond milk to suit dietary preferences.
Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves to the syrups for an extra warm spice note.
If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee can be a substitute.

For a richer drink, swap the 2% milk for whole milk or half-and-half.

Storage

Store leftover syrups in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently if needed before using. The assembled drink is best enjoyed fresh but you can keep syrup and drizzle ready in advance for quick preparation.

How to Serve

The image shows a tall clear glass filled with a drink that has three visible layers. The bottom layer is a smooth white milk base. The middle layer is a light brown that looks like syrup slowly mixing with the milk, with streaks running down the sides of the glass. The top layer is dark brown iced coffee with ice cubes floating inside, giving it a refreshing look. The background is a soft white marbled texture. There are two red apples cut in half around the glass, one leaning on the left side and the other blurred in the background on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this drink without espresso?

Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee if you don’t have espresso on hand. While the flavor will be slightly different, it still makes a delicious apple crisp macchiato.

Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the 2% milk with any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. The syrups remain the same and the drink will still taste fantastic.