What is the step after adding sugar or flavor when preparing an iced Macchiato?

When preparing an iced Macchiato, the step that follows adding sugar or flavor is to add cold milk. This order is crucial because an iced Macchiato is traditionally built in layers. After the sugar or flavor is incorporated into the beverage, adding cold milk creates the desired texture and flavor, blending seamlessly with the other components without overshadowing the espresso shot that will be added afterward.

In this preparation, pouring the espresso typically occurs after the cold milk has been added, as the espresso is meant to float on top, forming a distinct layering effect. Stirring the drink at this stage will disrupt these layers, which is not the intended presentation of an iced Macchiato. Marking the cup would not be relevant in terms of ingredient preparation and is generally more of an organizational step rather than a part of the actual drink-making process. Thus, adding cold milk is the correct subsequent step to achieve the perfect iced Macchiato.