Starbucks Holiday Drinks | Photo by Bethany Althauser | The Wright State Guardian
This year, many people’s favorite coffee chain, Starbucks, gave us a new holiday-inspired drink. Of course, this means it is time for one person’s opinion on all of the holiday drinks based on taste, festivity and vibes.
11. Signature Hot Chocolate
Usually, a simple hot chocolate is just the thing to get the holiday spirit going, but not at Starbucks. There are so many better options, and honestly, this drink has never been good comparatively. It comes out very bitter, which can be fixed with some simple add-ins, but then it IS no longer the “Signature Hot Chocolate” that Starbucks advertises. Ultimately, it is best to steer clear and spend your money on one of the many other (better) options if you are looking for something festive.
10. Hot Chestnut Praline Latte
9. Iced Chestnut Praline Latte
These drinks are good and all, but they could so easily be more festive. There is nothing all that special about them. Even though they make tasty drinks, this list is of the best Starbucks holiday drinks, and this one just does not give much in terms of the holidays. Everyone loves some good chestnuts roasting on an open fire, but that taste is really subtle. Next!
8. Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino
7. Peppermint Mocha
Simple but timeless. These would definitely fall higher on the list of someone who enjoys the taste of coffee more; however, if you are in need of a caffeinated pick-me-up to get through any part of the upcoming holidays, this is a pretty tasty way to go about it. There are better options, but a simple peppermint mocha is classic and respectable.
6. Caramel Brûlée Latte
Doesn’t it just sound delightful? Caramel is not the first thing that everyone thinks of when they think of holidays, but for those who do think of caramel as festive or for those who just love caramel year-round, this is a tasty drink that is perfect for on-the-go.
5. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Nostalgia may or may not play a part in this drink being ranked as high as it is, but regardless, this drink is a classic. Simple, festive, warm and delicious, this is always a great drink for taking a walk when it is cold out or doing some Christmas shopping. Chocolate and peppermint just belong together, specifically in a Starbucks red cup.
4. Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Frappuccino
3. Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
This drink never sounded particularly appealing, but upon first trying it, it is actually delightful. It tastes exactly like a sugar cookie that has been dunked in coffee for a little bit of extra energy. It is even topped with sprinkles! What more could you want?
2. Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
1. Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
Whether you reach for the hot or iced version, this delicious new drink is the perfect example of why Americans love Starbucks so much. There is always a new recipe that only Starbucks can create, and this year, this holiday drink is a prime example. It tastes exactly like a creamy gingerbread cookie, yet somehow far better because to be honest, gingerbread itself is not all that tasty, but this drink most certainly is.
Regardless of which drink you reach for or which holiday you celebrate, enjoy!
