Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato

If cozy had a flavor, this would be it. My Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato is like autumn in a glass—smooth, creamy, and filled with sweet apple spice goodness. You get that warm apple pie feeling from the apple brown sugar syrup, all swirled into frothy oat milk and a bold shot of coffee. Whether you enjoy it steaming hot or poured over ice, this drink is a lovely little treat that brings café vibes right to your kitchen—no fancy equipment or overpriced coffee runs needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start layering that beautiful macchiato, here’s what you’ll need to get everything just right:

Apple Cider

Make sure you’re using apple cider, not vinegar and not juice. Cider has this deep, cozy flavor that gives the drink its signature warmth. You’ll usually find it easily in the fall, but if you’ve got a local orchard nearby, that’s even better. If you’re in a pinch, apple juice will work—but the flavor won’t be quite as rich.

Leftover cider? Try baking it into an apple cake or make homemade apple cider donuts—you won’t regret it.

Brown Sugar

We’re making our own apple brown sugar syrup here, just like the one Starbucks uses. Light or dark brown sugar both work well, or feel free to go with coconut sugar if that’s your thing.

Maple Syrup

Maple pairs beautifully with the apples and cinnamon. While Starbucks doesn’t add this, I think it adds a cozy depth. Want to skip it? Just use a little more brown sugar instead.

Oat Milk

Naturally sweet and creamy, oat milk is the base of this drink. It steams and froths up like a dream. But if oat milk isn’t your go-to, any creamy plant-based milk works—almond, soy, cashew, even light coconut milk. Just avoid the watery ones.

Tip: Warm ¾ cup of the milk and reserve ¼ cup to froth and layer on top for that classic macchiato look.

Coffee or Espresso

You’ll want something bold here—strongly brewed coffee or espresso. I usually go with a blonde roast (and brew it strong). It’s got just the right flavor to balance the sweet apple syrup and the creamy milk.

Vanilla & Salt

A dash of vanilla and a pinch of salt may not stand out in the final taste, but they bring the whole thing together. Don’t skip them.

Cinnamon Sticks

We’re simmering cinnamon sticks with the syrup for that subtle spice. Ground cinnamon won’t dissolve well and can leave a gritty feel, so stick to the real sticks here.

How to Make Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato

Make the Apple Brown Sugar Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup apple cider, ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, a tiny pinch of salt, and 1–2 cinnamon sticks.
2. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat, stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla, and set aside to cool a bit.
4. This syrup will keep in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—so you’re set for multiple drinks!

Assemble the Macchiato

Now comes the fun part—building the layers:

1. Add about 1½ to 2 tablespoons of the apple brown sugar syrup into your mug or glass.
2. Slowly pour in ¾ cup steamed oat milk.
3. Top that with ¼ cup frothed oat milk (shake it in a jar if you don’t have a frother).
4. Gently pour a shot of espresso or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee over the milk so it floats on top.

Optional garnish: drizzle a little extra syrup or vegan caramel on top and dust with ground cinnamon for that coffeehouse finish.

Storage

You can make the syrup ahead of time and keep it in a mason jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just give it a quick shake or stir before using again.

Pro Tips and Tricks

• Always use apple cider (not apple juice or vinegar) for best flavor.
• Simmer the syrup long enough to get a thicker consistency—it should coat the spoon lightly.
• Layering matters: syrup first, steamed milk, frothed milk, then coffee. It’s not just for looks—the flavors come through beautifully.
• Adjust the sweetness: Use more or less syrup depending on how sweet you like your drinks.
• Scale it up: Hosting brunch? You can easily make a big batch of syrup and prep multiple drinks at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it contain coffee?
Yes, this drink includes either a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee. But the ratio of milk to coffee is higher—macchiatos lean more on the creamy side.

Is it better hot or iced?
That’s totally up to you! Hot gives you that cozy, warm hug in a mug. Iced is super refreshing and still just as flavorful. Try both and see what you like best.

Whether you’re cuddled up with a book on a rainy afternoon or just need a sweet pick-me-up to start the day, this Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato brings a little fall magic into your cup. And honestly, once you see how easy and delicious it is, you may never want the café version again.

Try other recipes:

• Snowflake Crisp
• Perfectly Crispy Pancakes
• Fruit Crisp Topping