By Shayan Abbasi & Jayden Nguyen
‘Tis the season to be caffeinated, and with the holiday lineup at Starbucks, you can be sure to properly get into the festive spirit. We’ve embarked on a merry journey through their seasonal offerings, and here’s the spill on each sip.
1. Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
First up is the Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai, a treat composed of chai spices and topped with gingerbread flavored syrups. The oat milk adds a creamy twist, making it a vegan delight. Hints of a pumpkin taste are apparent within the drink, and the result is an encompassing Goldilocks level of sweetness — just right.
2. White Chocolate Mocha Frappuccino
Chill in a “winter wonderland,” with the White Chocolate Mocha Frap. A frosty concoction that could make Jack Frost jealous, it blends classic mocha flavors with velvety white chocolate. The result? The creation of a beverage that’s as indulgent as opening presents on Christmas morning! It’s the perfect pick-me-up for those dreaming of a white (chocolate) Christmas. As seen below, the whipped cream adds a nice touch and makes for an appealing display all together.
3. Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
The Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte is probably the single greatest flavor on this list. Combining sweet cookie flavored syrups with Starbucks brand espresso roast and topped with sprinkles and almond milk, it is a true highlight of the menu. The almond milk adds a nice, nutty twist, and the sugar cookie flavors remind us of the holiday season.
4. Hot Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai
This is the counterpart to our first reviewed drink, with every aspect the same except for the fact that it is hot. And that makes all the difference. The steamed oat milk creates a frothy layer, making each sip a cozy one, a must on a chilly winter day. The gingerbread spices and chai fuse together to create a medley of flavors, embodying a refreshing taste that is both soothing and delicious. Though it is sweet, it is not overly sweet, making it an enjoyable treat for all.
5. Chestnut Praline Latte
Some chestnuts are roasting on an open fire, and others find themselves in this drink! The display of the Chestnut Praline Latte tops all others. Whipped cream and praline crumbs delicately sprinkled on the top will make you feel like you are drinking an artistic masterpiece. The rich and toasty flavor of chestnut praline syrup mixed with espresso and steamed milk creates the ideal holiday atmosphere. It’s like sipping on the warmth of a crackling fireplace. We only got the tall, but we should’ve ordered the venti size.
6. Gingerbread Latte
The Gingerbread Latte is a staple of the holiday classics. The carefully crafted combination of espresso, steamed oat milk and gingerbread syrup is an iconic trio that feels like a festive hug from your barista. The chai spices create a rustic feel to the drink, and the result is a strongly nostalgic holiday drink that is a must-try if you want to fully experience the holidays.
The magic of Christmas never ends, and neither does the magic of the Starbucks festive drinks. Starbucks has once again delivered a sleigh-full of holiday magic with the seasonal drinks. From the spiciness of gingerbread to the sweetness of sugar cookies and richness of chestnut praline, there’s a cup of cheer waiting for you at Starbucks. Happy holidays!
