The holiday season is a magical time of year. It’s when the weather cools down, homes sparkle with decorations, and Starbucks rolls out its beloved holiday drinks. If you’re new to the seasonal drinks lineup, you might wonder: What exactly makes these drinks so special? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Starbucks’ holiday drinks, breaking down the classics and the new arrivals, and showing you how to enjoy them like a pro.
What Are Starbucks Holiday Drinks?
Every year, Starbucks unveils a series of drinks that get us all into the festive spirit. Starbucks holiday drinks are typically available starting in early November and lasting until early January. These drinks are a mix of seasonal flavors and festive packaging designed to make you feel cozy and joyful. Think warm spices, decadent flavors, and that unmistakable holiday cheer.
Some of the most famous holiday drinks include the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, and Eggnog Latte. These drinks are typically offered in limited-time holiday cups, adding a little extra magic to every sip.
Classic Holiday Drinks You Need to Try
If you’re new to Starbucks holiday drinks, it’s essential to start with the classics. These drinks have been fan favorites for years, and for a good reason. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most iconic holiday beverages you can expect:
Peppermint Mocha:
This is the drink that truly kicks off the holiday season at Starbucks. A rich mocha sauce paired with cool peppermint flavor and topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, the Peppermint Mocha is a perfect combination of sweet and minty. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a bit of holiday spice without going overboard.
Caramel Brulée Latte:
For something sweet and smooth, the Caramel Brulée Latte is a must-try. It’s made with espresso, steamed milk, and a decadent caramel brulée sauce. The finish is topped with whipped cream and a sprinkling of caramelized sugar. It’s the drink that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Eggnog Latte:
Eggnog is a holiday staple, and Starbucks knows how to turn it into a cozy, comforting drink. The Eggnog Latte blends rich, spiced eggnog with espresso and steamed milk, then is topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg. If you love eggnog, this is your drink!
Toffee Nut Latte:
If you’re a fan of rich, buttery toffee, the Toffee Nut Latte is the one for you. With toffee nut syrup mixed with espresso and steamed milk, it’s a sweet, nutty treat that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
New Additions and Limited-Time Offerings
Each year, Starbucks also introduces some new flavors and limited-time options to keep things exciting. These drinks typically have a more modern twist or cater to specific tastes that evolve with the times. Here are some recent additions that might make a big splash in the upcoming season:
Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte:
This drink is a recent addition to the holiday lineup, and it’s already gaining fans. It combines iced espresso with sugar cookie-flavored syrup, almond milk, and a sprinkle of festive toppings. The sweetness of sugar cookies with the creaminess of almond milk makes for a refreshing yet cozy holiday drink.
Irish Cream Cold Brew:
For those who want to break away from the traditional hot drinks, the Irish Cream Cold Brew is a refreshing option. It’s made with cold brew coffee topped with Irish cream-flavored cold foam and a drizzle of chocolate. It’s sweet, rich, and perfect for those who still want the holiday flavor without the heat.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
For the non-coffee drinkers or anyone craving something a little sweeter, the Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the ultimate treat. Made with steamed milk, peppermint syrup, and chocolate sauce, topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, this is the drink that brings all the Christmas vibes.
Customizing Your Starbucks Holiday Drinks
One of the best things about Starbucks holiday drinks is that you can easily customize them to match your personal taste. Not a fan of whipped cream? No problem. Want it extra sweet? They’ve got you covered. Here are some easy customizations you can try:
Milk Options:
Starbucks offers a variety of milk choices to fit your dietary needs or preferences, such as oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. You can swap these into any holiday drink for a personalized touch.
Sweeteners and Flavors:
If you love a little extra sweetness, ask for extra pumps of your favorite syrup. Want a more decadent experience? Try adding extra caramel drizzle or a shot of vanilla syrup. You can also reduce the sweetness if you prefer a less sugary drink.
Heat Levels:
Don’t like your drinks piping hot? Starbucks can steam your milk to a lower temperature, making it more enjoyable for those who prefer a warmer-than-room-temperature but not scorching hot beverage.
How to Order Your Starbucks Holiday Drinks Like a Pro
If you’ve never ordered a Starbucks holiday drink before, the process can seem a little overwhelming. But fear not! Ordering your drink like a pro is easy with these quick tips:
- Know the Drink Names:
Before you step up to the counter, it helps to know the drink names. It’ll save you time and make the barista’s job easier. - Specify Your Size:
Starbucks holiday drinks are available in three sizes: Tall (12 oz.), Grande (16 oz.), and Venti (20 oz.). If you’re not sure which size to pick, Grande is the most popular choice. - Ask for Customizations:
Remember, you can customize almost everything! If you want extra flavor or to make your drink dairy-free, just ask. Baristas are happy to help. - Get a Holiday Cup:
Don’t forget that Starbucks holiday drinks often come in festive red cups! The cups add a little extra magic to your drink, and they’re perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
Enjoying Starbucks Holiday Drinks at Home
If you can’t always make it to Starbucks, or you just want to enjoy your favorite holiday drink in the comfort of your home, you’re in luck! Starbucks offers several ways to enjoy your holiday drinks at home:
Starbucks Holiday Flavored Syrups:
You can purchase Starbucks holiday syrups like Peppermint, Toffee Nut, and Caramel Brulée from the store or online. This way, you can create your own festive drinks at home, using your favorite base (like coffee, milk, or tea).
Starbucks Via Instant Coffee:
For those who need a quick fix, Starbucks Via Instant Coffee is a great way to recreate your favorite Starbucks drink at home. They offer several flavors and even holiday-inspired varieties like the Peppermint Mocha, so you can indulge in the holiday cheer anytime.
Conclusion: Get Into the Holiday Spirit with Starbucks
Starbucks holiday drinks are more than just beverages—they’re a part of what makes the holiday season so special. From the classic Peppermint Mocha to the new Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte, these drinks are the perfect way to celebrate the season with a little extra joy. Whether you prefer hot or cold drinks, sweet or spicy flavors, there’s something for everyone. So, grab your favorite holiday drink, cozy up, and enjoy the magic of the season.
