Apple Crisp Oatmilk: The Coziest Fall Drink From Starbucks

When fall arrives, Starbucks is more than just a coffee shop. It becomes a time of year filled with warm spices, cozy flavors, and limited-edition drinks that people line up for all year. Though the Pumpkin Spice Latte normally hogs all the attention, another contender has slyly stolen hearts: the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato. It’s such a beloved drink and if you haven’t tried it, then you’re missing out on one of Starbucks’ most comforting goodies. So let’s get to what makes it special, how we’ll taste it, and why so many of us are trading in our pumpkin spice for apple crisp this year.
So What Is the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, Exactly?
The name should tell you one obvious thing. Think of a warm apple crisp out of the oven with some cinnamon and brown sugar, but not overwhelmingly sweet. And now imagine that flavor in a creamy coffee drink. That’s what Starbucks invented when they devised the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato. It’s made with:
- Espresso: The signature strong coffee base of Starbucks.
- Apple Brown Sugar Syrup: A sweet, spiced syrup that tastes just like cinnamon apples covered in caramel.
- Oatly Oat Milk, Barista Edition (3 packs of 32 oz) Creamy and Distinctive non-dairy milk “Performs” Deliciously When Paired with Coffee During xocosio Octoberfest Sale! $37.50 Steamed Oatmilk: A natural partner for our coffees, our almondmilk tastes great in any coffee its paired with.
- Spiced Apple Drizzle: That finishing touch that makes the “baked apple” flavour complete.
What you have is a drink that seems as if it could be dinner at grandma’s house and yet is sufficiently sophisticated for day drinking on the way to work.
The Oatmilk Explosion at Starbucks
A few years ago, oatmilk was among a dozen or so plant-based alternatives. Today, it’s one of the most common menu options for coffee enthusiasts everywhere. Why? Because it’s creamy and a little sweet on its own, and complements espresso better than many other non-dairy milks. Starbucks introduced its oatmilk in 2021, when it became an instant hit. Drinks like the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso showed that oatmilk wasn’t a fluke it’s here to stay. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato spins the concept in a new direction with a limited-time drink that’s every bit as indulgent without using dairy.
How Does It Taste?
Let’s face it: Seasonal drinks can be a crapshoot, too sweet or barely delivering on their promise. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato can strike a delicious chord in more ways than one. Here’s how the flavor develops throughout each sip:
- The initial flavor is a big cinnamon-apple hit, like warm apple pie filling.
- Then there’s the richness of espresso, which balances out all that sweetness so it isn’t cloying.
- The oatmilk pulls it all in, contributing a lushness and gentle nutty flavor.
- And then the drizzle on top you get to linger over, all cozy “just baked” in your mouth.
It’s smooth, layered, and satisfying. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk is milder than the bold and spice-heavy offerings of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, making it great if you’re in the mood for a touch of fall without pumpkin overload.
So, Hot? Iced? or Blended: What’ll It Be Penguins?
One of the great things about Starbucks is the flexibility. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato can come in a few different forms with its own vibe:
- Hot: Ideal for crisp mornings. The steam intensifies the scent of the syrup, which feels extra cozy to me.
- Iced: A more insubstantial option that is very suited for all of you in warmer climes who still wish to taste the fall.
- Frappuccino® Blended: A dessert-inspired type that is egg based, creamy and ideal if when you fancy a treat.
Calories and Nutrition
Hot seasonal drinks tend to raise questions about calories. For a grande (16 oz) Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, you’ll be staring down the barrel of around 320 calories and about 28 grams of sugar. It’s a lighter option compared to a grande Pumpkin Spice Latte, which has approximately 390 calories.
Of course, Starbucks offers plenty of customization. You can:
- Ask for fewer pumps of syrup.
- Skip the drizzle on top.
- Give it a go with almond milk to cut the calories even more.
That way you get to enjoy the seasonal flavor without going overboard.
Modifying the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
One of the best things about Starbucks is tweaking your drink to make it uniquely you. The Apple Crisp Oatmilk is not exception. Here’s a selection of the most popular tweaks:
- Additional Espresso Shot: For stronger coffee punch.
- Vanilla Syrup: A more creamy sweetness, pairs very well with apple.
- Cinnamon Powder on Top: This really ups the spiced apple feeling.
- Half-Sweet Version: Taste the flavor with less sugar.
These small tweaks can make the drink feel more like something you craft yourself this fall.
How It Stacks Up To The Pumpkin Spice Latte
Come on, guys: The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is the stuff of icons. It’s the beverage that started Starbucks’ seasonal craze. But the Apple Crisp Oatmilk has found a niche in the autumn lineup.
- PSL: A punch of bright pumpkin flavor, just slightly medicinal with nutmeg and cloves. Sweet and spicy.
- Apple Crisp Oatmilk: Softer apple flavor, notes of cinnamon and brown sugar. More dessert-like than spicy.
And for anyone feeling a bit overpowered by PSL or overhyped, the Apple Crisp Oatmilk is another refreshing gameplan.
Why People Love It
It’s not just about flavor. This drink does something to you. Apple desserts have always been associated with comfort, family, and autumn traditions. Sipping an Oatmilk Apple Crisp at Starbucks feels like entering into that same warmth, especially if you are picking one up on your way to work. It’s also a crowd-pleaser because it’s made with oatmilk, it’s automatically dairy-free. That means it’s available to people who normally dismiss seasonal drinks because they don’t want the bother of doing a lot of substitutions.
Final Sip
The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato isn’t just another seasonal Starbucks beverage. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that tastes both fresh and comfortable. With apple-and-cinnamon sweetness, a smooth (oatmilk) foundation, and just the kind of decent hit of espresso that signals you can do this: It is so warming and lappable, that the wait won’t even feel one whit too long. So the next time you find yourself at Starbucks, just give this one a shot and stop fucking around with pumpkin spice. Who knows? It might be your new fall tradition.
What is the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato at Starbucks?
The Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato is a seasonal Starbucks drink made with espresso, apple brown sugar syrup, oatmilk, and a spiced apple drizzle. It tastes like a warm apple dessert blended with coffee.
Does the Apple Crisp Oatmilk have dairy?
No, it’s fully dairy-free since it uses oatmilk instead of regular milk. This makes it a great option for vegans and anyone who avoids dairy.
How many calories are in a grande Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato?
A grande (16 oz) Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato has around 320 calories and about 28 grams of sugar, making it lighter than the Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Can I order the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato iced or blended?
Yes! Starbucks lets you enjoy it hot for a cozy vibe, iced for a refreshing twist, or as a Frappuccino® blended drink for a dessert-like treat.
How can I make the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato healthier?
You can ask for fewer pumps of syrup, skip the drizzle, or switch to almond milk to cut down on sugar and calories.
How does it compare to the Pumpkin Spice Latte?
The Pumpkin Spice Latte is bolder with pumpkin and heavy spices, while the Apple Crisp Oatmilk is smoother with apple, cinnamon, and brown sugar notes. It’s a cozy alternative if you want fall flavors without pumpkin overload.