This copycat Starbucks Apple Crisp Macchiato brings together rich espresso and the nostalgic flavors of spiced apple pie. The homemade apple cider syrup creates the perfect flavor base for today's coffee, serve this hot or cold!
¼cupespresso or strong coffeebasically 2 - 1oz. shots
1cup2% milk
caramel syrup for drizzleoptional - could also use more of the apple cider syrup instead
sprinkle of apple pie spice for garnish
Instructions
To make the apple cider syrup:
Add apple cider, brown sugar, and butter to a small saucepan. Heat over medium low heat until butter is melted and all ingredients are combined.
In a small bowl, whisk together apple pie spice and cornstarch. Whisk the dry ingredients into the apple cider mixture until completely combined.
Bring to a boil over medium low heat and continue to boil for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
To make the apple cider macchiato:
Add 2 Tablespoons of apple cider syrup to a mug.
In a glass measuring cup, heat 1 cup of milk in the microwave to 150℉. You may also heat the milk on the stovetop if you prefer. (*see notes)
Pour ¾ cup of the steamed milk into the mug, reserving the remaining ¼ cup for frothing.
Add ¼ cup espresso or strong coffee. (*see notes)
Using a handheld milk frother, create the milk foam for the top of the macchiato.
Pour or spoon the foam into the mug. Drizzle with caramel sauce and finish with a sprinkle of apple pie spice. Serve immediately.
Notes
I like to heat the milk in the microwave in a glass measuring cup for ease. When you reserve a ¼ cup for frothing, it just makes it easier to measure the correct amounts without having to pour the milk into something else to measure it.
I made my espresso using instant espresso powder. Starbucks puts 2 shots into their drinks but their shots are measured at .75 oz to save money. I actually think it could be adjusted to be a little stronger depending on how much someone likes espresso or coffee.
Non-dairy? I did test Almond milk (vanilla, unsweetened.) A delicious non-dairy alternative.
Delicious over ice as well. Fill a glass with ice and add ingredients in the order listed above.
Storage for the apple cider syrup: Can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Don’t have any apple pie spice on hand? It’s easy as pie to make it at home. 1 ½ Tablespoons ground cinnamon, 1 ½ teaspoons ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon ground allspice, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (if you can find it or have it, otherwise it’s ok to omit.)I love this inexpensive milk frother from Amazon. Perfect for today's recipe, as well as blending chocolate milk, hot cocoa, and more.