As someone who doesn’t like pumpkin, the fall drink line up is always very underwhelming for me. However, this year Starbucks came out with an Apple Crisp Macchiato. I was looking forward to trying it but heard ahead of time from a few friends that the mix of apple and coffee just isn’t good. Thinking about it, those flavors definitely don’t sound like they mix. But, apple flavored iced tea sounds pretty good, right? Here’s my take on the Starbucks Apple Brown Sugar syrup and how it worked in an iced tea.
How to Order My Starbucks Apple Brown Sugar Iced Tea
Nice and simple, I ordered a grande iced black tea with two pumps of apple brown sugar syrup. I asked the barista if she thought I should add any classic or if this syrup was sweet enough on its own. She said she heard it was pretty sweet, so I proceeded without any classic syrup or sweeteners.
In hindsight, I would have added a pump of classic syrup to it. None of their flavor syrups are really sweet enough for me without even just one pump of classic syrup. It’s all preference, but I typically always get one pump of classic in my drinks, just for reference if you order one.
Nutrition, Ingredients and Caffeine
Since this drink isn’t on the menu nor is there a comparable one, I can’t provide accurate nutrition information. However, I do have ingredients and caffeine to share with you.
There’s only two ingredients: a black tea blend and Apple Brown Sugar Syrup. Per the Starbucks website, the Apple Brown Sugar Syrup consists of Invert Sugar, Water, Brown Sugar, Natural Flavors, Salt, Preservative Potassium Sorbate and Malic Acid.
As for caffeine, there’s 25 mg of caffeine in a grande black tea at Starbucks, regardless of flavor additions.
Initial Starbucks Apple Brown Sugar Iced Tea Review
Honestly? I was confused. It hardly tastes like apple, which is what I was most looking forward to as an apple flavor lover. Even iced, this drink reminds me of a warm apple pie, which definitely wasn’t what I wanted. I was hoping the brown sugar played a smaller role in the drink, more as a sweetener and less as flavor-shifter.
If you’re looking for a sweet, fruity apple iced tea, this ain’t it. I’m not shocked by any means, was just hopeful for something sweeter and more apple-y. In fact, I recommend ordering this drink hot instead. The apple pie taste profile I’m getting from the flavoring would be better in a hot drink, perfect for fall and winter!
Would you try my Starbucks Apple Brown Sugar Iced Tea? While it’s not my normal glowing review, I’m nothing if not honest. It’s not my cup of tea — pun intended — but it’s not inedible. For those seeking a drink that’ll remind you of an apple pie, try this drink warm. Let me know what you think in the comments!
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