I Tried Starbucks' Full Holiday Menu The Day It Dropped—And I Have Thoughts
Crisp air, decorations, and sweet treats are some typical signs that the holiday season has begun. But the official start of the season? That's the release of Starbucks' holiday menu, which was just announced today. You can get your festive favorites (and some new additions) starting tomorrow, November 2, but I got an early taste to fill you in on everything you need to know.
This year, you'll find returning drinks like the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, and Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte. There are two items from last year that won't be returning (RIP Irish Cream Cold Brew and Toasted White Chocolate Mocha) and two new additions: Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai and Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte. Note that many of these drinks can be enjoyed hot, cold, or blended as a Frappuccino.
When it comes to food, you can count on the return of the Cranberry Bliss Bar, Gingerbread Loaf, Snowman Cookie, Peppermint Brownie Cake Pop, and Sugar Plum Cheese Danish.
Here's a rundown of the holiday drinks, from my least favorite to most favorite.
Caramel Brulée Latte
Creme brûlée, anyone? If you're looking for a rich, flavorful drink, this one's your best bet. But it was just a little too much for me. Buttery, sweet, and a touch salty, it's everything you want in a dessert. The latte features a caramel brulée sauce and is topped with whipped cream and brulée bits. It's definitely the sweetest drink on the holiday menu.
Chestnut Praline Latte
This one has notes of caramelized chestnuts and spices and is topped with whipped cream and spiced praline crumbs. It's not as sweet as the Caramel Brulée Latte, but comes in as a close second. It tastes just like the holidays.
Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
Returning for the third year is the Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte. The espresso notes are more pronounced in this drink, although complemented with the sugar cookie-flavored syrup. You'll get a nice crunch from the red and green sprinkles and an aftertaste that feels like you just bit into a sugar cookie.
Peppermint Mocha
A classic that's older than the Pumpkin Spice Latte, the Peppermint Mocha returns for its 21st year. What could be better than peppermint and chocolate? It's topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls.
Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
One word: creamy. A new addition to the holiday menu, the Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai combines the flavors of gingerbread and chai for a warming, creamy drink that isn't too spiced.
Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte
This one was my favorite of the holiday menu, although it's only available at locations that serve Oleato olive oil drinks. The latte features Blonde Espresso, gingerbread flavors, and Partanna extra virgin olive oil, and is topped with ginger and citrus flavors. The gingerbread is subtle and complemented by the bright, citrus topping and olive oil.
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