A method for starting an internal combustion engine in a hybrid powertrain having an electric torque machine mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine includes monitoring a temperature state of the hybrid powertrain, determining a maximum discharging power limit of the high-voltage battery corresponding to the temperature state of the hybrid powertrain, estimating an engine drag torque associated with the temperature state of the hybrid powertrain, selecting a preferred engine cranking speed associated with the estimated engine drag torque and achievable at less than the maximum discharging power limit of the high-voltage battery, and controlling the electric torque machine to generate a magnitude of motor torque output sufficient to crank the internal combustion engine at the preferred engine cranking speed.