18 Best Starbucks Holiday Drinks of 2024 [Sip the Season]

Ah, the holiday season! As those festive vibes start to fill the air, there's nothing more enjoyable than curling up with a warm, festive latte or a cool, refreshing frappuccino. Enter Starbucks, our ever-dependable friend, always there to make those chilly December mornings feel cozier and those holiday gatherings a little more sparkly. Starbucks isn't just about the taste (even though the flavors are fantastic). It's about the atmosphere, the music, the red holiday cups, and, most important of all, their array of delightful holiday-themed drinks. It is that time of the year to indulge in the best Starbucks holiday drinks.

From the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte to the adventurous Santa Claus Frappuccino, there's something for everyone, each helping you savor the spirit of the holiday season in every sip. Now, let's dive in and explore what makes these holiday beverages so extraordinary and why you might consider adding them to your holiday tradition.

Also Read: Best Starbucks Drinks

18 Best Starbucks Holiday Drinks of 2024

Let's face it: The holiday season wouldn't be complete without taking the time to savor some of the best Starbucks holiday drinks. Each one is a masterpiece, cleverly combining traditional holiday flavors with Starbucks’ signature style. We’re about to unwrap some holiday cheer - one holiday beverage at a time.

1. Pistachio Latte

A dash of nuttiness, a wave of creaminess, and a touch of enchanting flavor - that's the Pistachio Latte for you. Trust me when I say this: Starbucks' Pistachio Latte isn’t your ordinary latte. It’s a magical blend of rich espresso and frothy milk, masterfully infused with a delectable pistachio sauce. The result? An intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted pistachios that fills the air, followed by an irresistible creamy sweetness that gently lingers on your taste buds.

Layering the flavors in a sophisticated fashion, Starbucks ensures a delightful, slightly crunchy texture of pistachio in every sip. The flavor combination is remarkable and keeps you coming back for more. If you're in search of a new favorite or want to venture beyond the classics, the Pistachio Latte is a surefire hit.

2. Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai

When gingerbread meets chai, the result is absolutely phenomenal! That's exactly why the Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai remains a beloved choice during the holidays. The familiar warm aromas of gingerbread and spice, the soothing silkiness of oat milk, the distinctive taste of chai tea – it’s an ensemble that’s both comforting and refreshing. This sweet and savory blend achieves a perfect balance, creating a glacial symphony of flavors that makes each sip a delight. The playful marriage of spicy chai and sweet, smooth oat milk form a perfect backdrop to the gingerbread’s subtle warmth, bringing out its best. It's the kind of drink that can lift your spirits instantly.

3. Salted Caramel Mocha Latte

Enter the world of sweet and salty with the much-adored Salted Caramel Mocha Latte. Every sip is a delightful journey of flavors, starting with Starbucks' signature espresso, perfectly combined with velvety steamed milk. Then comes the enthralling duo of mocha sauce and toffee nut syrup, effortlessly blending in rich and buttery caramel. If the sweetness feels overwhelming, the sprinkling of sea salt and a topping of whipped cream offer a welcomed balance. The caramel drizzle on top is the final flourish, making this drink a decadent treat. It’s a cup of joy that will make you hang on to every moment of the festive season.

4. Toasted Caramel Brulée Cold Brew

Ready to shake things up a bit? Turn to the Toasted Caramel Brulée Cold Brew. This is not just a drink; it’s an immersive experience. First, the cold brew coffee, known for its inherently smooth texture, gives this drink an excellent place to start. Next, the caramel brulée flavor brings in a hint of indulgence that transforms this cold brew into a dessert-like delight. And it doesn’t stop there. The crowning glory is the whipped cream and caramel brulée topping, echoing the drink’s sweetness while adding a cool, creamy contrast to the robust coffee. It’s a lovely contradiction, where the warm, toasted flavors of the holidays meet the refreshing chill of a cold brew.

5. Pumpkin Spice Latte

No list of Starbucks' holiday drinks is complete without mentioning the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Rightly so, it’s one of the most iconic and highly-anticipated beverages of all times. From the moment you take that first sip of Pumpkin Spice Latte, it's like being enveloped in a warm, cozy blanket. A soothing blend of rich espresso meets the delightful creaminess of steamed milk. Then, the flavor combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove creates that genuinely distinctive taste - a taste that speaks of fall, holidays, and happiness. Topped with sweetened whipped cream and a dash of pumpkin pie spices, this drink is autumn in a cup - delicious, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.

6. Iced Shaken Hazelnut Oatmilk Espresso

Experience a delightful shakeup in your traditional coffee routine with the Iced Shaken Hazelnut Oatmilk Espresso. A perfect harmony of flavors, this drink brilliantly combines the robustness of an espresso shot with the creaminess of oat milk and the aromatic sweetness of hazelnut. The espresso's boldness isn't hidden but rather, elevated - courteously shaken with ice, it creates a refreshing base for this unique beverage. The hazelnut flavor whirls in, adding a nutty sweetness that stands out but doesn't overwhelm. As for the oat milk - it's smooth, it's creamy, and it brings an earthy depth, making this unique drink one to remember.

7. Caramel Brulée Latte

Caramel Brulée Latte is the sweet indulgence you need to brighten up those winter mornings. It is an intricate blend of Starbucks' rich espresso, steamed milk, and a medley of brulée and caramel flavors, creating the perfect balance of sweet and creamy. Yes, it’s sweet, but not dishearteningly so. And yes, it’s creamy, but in the most pleasing way. The brulée flavor brings home the festive feel in every sip while the caramel subtly lends a buttery smoothness. Topped with a crown of whipped cream and a sprinkle of caramel brulée crumble, this latte is a holiday dessert reimagined in a cup!

Also Read: Best Low Calorie Starbucks Drinks

8. Irish Cream Cold Brew

Experience a jolly Irish celebration right in your Starbucks cup with the Irish Cream Cold Brew. This enticing blend of cold brew coffee and Irish cream syrup over ice is a delightful treat - indulgent, creamy, smooth, and filled with holiday cheer. The vanilla sweet cream cold foam adds an irresistible fluffy layer, while the dusting of cocoa gives that finishing touch, creating a beautiful visual and gustatory contrast. This drink is a definite must-try for those who enjoy the creaminess of traditional Irish cream but prefer something a bit cooler during the holiday season.

9. Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte

Take a trip down the memory lane of traditional holiday flavors with the Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte. This drink is more than just a blend of espresso, oatmilk, and gingerbread syrup - it's a heartwarming tribute to the classic holiday gingerbread. The beverage showcases the wholesome, hearty flavor of oatmilk, allowing the gingerbread syrup's spiciness to shine through, offering you a perfectly balanced, comforting drink. It's like sipping on your childhood Christmas memories served up in a Starbucks cup.

10. Iced Merry Mint White Mocha

Here comes a merry spin on the classic Starbucks White Mocha - the Iced Merry Mint White Mocha. It's a harmonious blend of Starbucks’ signature espresso, impeccably balanced with a velvety smooth white chocolate mocha sauce and a twirl of minty coolness. The drink is topped off with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls, creating a beautiful swirl of colors and flavors. As soon as you take your first sip, the warmth of the coffee and white chocolate strikes you, slowly transitioning into a refreshing hint of mint. It is indeed a 'merry' treat for all the mocha lovers out there!

11. Peppermint Mocha

Ring in the Christmas spirit with Starbucks' Peppermint Mocha - a classic holiday drink that screams "festive" in every sense of the word. The cozy combination of steamed milk, rich espresso, sweet mocha sauce, and peppermint-flavored syrup creates a yuletide symphony in your mouth. This festive aroma and flavor blend so wonderfully, you'll almost hear the Christmas bells jingling! Topped with sweetened whipped cream and dark chocolate curls, it's no wonder this drink is an annual tradition for many during the holiday season.

12. Chestnut Praline Latte

Chestnut Praline Latte – now that’s a classic that wins hearts every holiday season! It all starts with Starbucks's signature espresso and fresh steamed milk, combined with flavors of caramelized chestnuts and spices, creating an essential festive aura. Flavoured with care, the chestnut praline syrup imparts a unique, nutty flavor - slightly sweet, slightly spicy - that’s hard to resist. To top it all off, the beverage is garnished with whipped cream and spiced praline crumbs. One sip of this warming drink and it's easy to see why it's a favorite during those long winter nights.

13. Santa Claus Frappuccino

If you’re looking for a holiday drink that’s as festive as it gets, the Santa Claus Frappuccino has got you covered! This is a beverage that captures the spirit of the jolly old man himself. An enticing blend of blended ice, milk, and various holiday flavors gives this drink a truly unique taste. The whimsical finishing touches – whipped cream and colorful sprinkles – echo the drink's joyfulness. Every sip delivers a cool, creamy, and fantastically festive experience that'll leave you longing for more.

14. Rolo Frappuccino

Indulge your sweet tooth with the Rolo Frappuccino, a delectable tribute to one of our favorite chocolate-caramel treats. With a fantastic blend of chocolatey goodness, emulsified caramel, and the chilled frappe, this drink is like a dessert that you can enjoy anytime you please. But what sets this drink apart is its consistency - it’s thick, creamy, and perfectly holds all the flavors together. Topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel, drinking it feels like a delightful trip to a caramel-chocolate paradise.

15. Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte

The reintroduction of the Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte, a fan-favorite, is a testament to Starbucks's commitment to satisfying diverse palates. Again, the hearty flavor of oatmilk shines through but this time, it combines with a blend of gingerbread spices creating a taste that's heartwarmingly festive. This beverage is a treat for your senses - spice-infused, creamy, and supremely comforting. Featured prominently in baristas' holiday line-up, it's prepared with meticulous care to ensure its flavors tap into the nostalgia of holiday seasons past.

16. Pistachio Cream Cold Brew

For those who fancy the nuttiness of pistachios and the soothing chill of a cold brew, Starbucks presents the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. This creative concoction complements the robustness of cold brew with a blend of sweetened pistachio flavor. The harmony is enhanced by a finishing touch of velvety smooth vanilla sweet cream cold foam. It's a creamy, nutty, and refreshing drink that breathes new life into your usual coffee routine!

17. Toasted White Chocolate Mocha

Behold the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, an elegant ensemble that creates a harmony of pleasing flavors. The delicious crème brulée notes in the white chocolate give this beverage an exceptional depth. Paired with Starbucks's signature espresso and steamed milk, the flavors dance together forming a warm, sweet, and decadent delight. Garnished with colorful holiday sugar sprinkles and crispy white pearls, it’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate.

18. Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Round off your exploration of Starbucks's holiday drinks with the Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte. This drink strikes a comfortable balance between the rich intensity of espresso and the sweetness of sugar cookies, all perfectly complemented by the subtle hint of almond. It's a beverage that mirrors the holiday season's joy and excitement – delightful, festive, and absolutely unforgettable. Trust me, sipping on this feels like biting into your favorite holiday sugar cookie - it's the perfect ending to your holiday drink adventure!

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How Starbucks Creates Holiday Drinks With a Twist?

Simply put, Starbucks never ceases to amaze us with their creative prowess, especially when the holiday season rolls around.

First of all, their team of coffee researchers and specialists works year-round, formulating a menu that encapsulates the cheer, excitement, warmth, and sweetness that are the essence of the holiday season.

Each year, they focus on introducing new flavors while adding unique spins to beloved returning favorites. Take, for example, the Pistachio Latte. This creamy, nutty treat brings a whole new flavor profile to the classic latte.

Similarly, the Toasted Caramel Brulée Cold Brew is a fascinating twist to the much-loved Caramel Brulée Latte, offering an icy yet comforting alternative for cold brew enthusiasts.

Not to mention, Starbucks is thoughtful with their dairy-alternative options, evident in flavorful offerings such as Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai or Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte. They're not just vegan-friendly, they are flavor-packed festive treats!

To add an even extraordinary touch, Starbucks often dresses their holiday drinks with captivating festive toppings like whipped cream, caramelized sugar spirals, or gingerbread spice—all specifically designed to enrich your holiday experience with every sip!

How Healthy are Starbucks Holiday Drinks?

It's a common perception that treats and health don't usually mingle—especially when we're talking about decadent holiday drinks from Starbucks. However, you'd be surprised to know that Starbucks does put a thoughtful effort into creating beverages that can fit into a variety of dietary needs.

For those keeping an eye on their calorie intake, many of their holiday specials can be customized to be lighter. For instance, you can ask for less sweet or opt for drinks without whipped cream or ask for lower-fat milk or milk substitutes.

Let's take the Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte—a festive treat that combines the flavors of traditional holiday cookies with the refreshing coolness of iced latte. Containing almond milk, it's a great choice for those looking for non-dairy options.

While they might not be 'health drinks', moderation is key here, and making choices like skipping the whip, going for low-fat milk, or asking for less syrup, can make for a healthier Starbucks experience.

However, it's essential to remember that it’s the holiday season—a time to unwind, feel the joy, and yes, treat yourself a little. So, when you order your next Starbucks holiday drink, remember to relish the moment and the happiness that comes along with it.

How Starbucks' Holiday Drinks Can Make Your Winter Warmer & Brighter?

As much as we all love sledding, snowmen, and layers upon layers of cozy clothing, winter would feel incomplete without those warm, flavorful drinks filling us up with the magic of the holidays. Starbucks' holiday drinks are like an afternoon spent by the fireplace - comforting and filled with nostalgia.

Whether it's the familiar flavor of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, a classic favorite made of brewed espresso, pumpkin sauce, and a mixture of warming spices, or the unique taste of the Iced Merry Mint White Mocha, a beverage that intermingles minty and mocha undertones with a cozy holiday spin, these drinks can make any winter day much brighter.

Each specialty drink is a bundle of creamy, foamy goodness that embraces not just your taste buds, but your heart too. Nothing amplifies the holiday cheers quite like a sip of the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew or the Toasted Caramel Brulée Cold Brew! They bring ?holiday cheer? to your palate and sparkle to your winter days.

How to Order Your Holiday Drink Like a Pro at Starbucks?

It's widely understood that Starbucks can be a little intimidating for newbies, with its myriad of options and unique lingo. But, ordering your holiday drink doesn't have to be a daunting task. Here are some tips on how to order at Starbucks like a seasoned champ.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand the ordering process. At Starbucks, it typically flows as follows: Size -> Type of drink -> Extras (if any). So if you're ordering a Pumpkin Spice Latte, for example, start with the size, say, 'Grande'. Then, specify the drink, 'Pumpkin Spice Latte'. If you want any extras, like extra whipped cream or a double shot of espresso, mention that at last.

Therefore, a complete order would sound like "I would like a Grande Pumpkin Spice Latte with extra whipped cream, please."

Remember, being specific is the key to getting the drink you desire. So don't hesitate to articulate your preferences. Want your Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte with an extra pump of sugar cookie syrup? Go ahead and ask. Prefer the Salted Caramel Mocha Latte with non-fat milk? Just say it!

Lastly, Starbucks' staff is always cordial & helpful. So if you're unsure of how to order or what to order, don't hesitate to ask them for help!

Enjoying the holiday season with Starbucks has never been easier. So, what are you waiting for? Step into your nearest Starbucks or order online on Starbucks's website and immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of this festive season.

Also Read: Best Starbucks Matcha Drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

We've journeyed together through the delicious and enchanting world of the best Starbucks holiday drinks. We have sampled sweet, savory, spicy, and everything in between. Each drink offers something unique - a hint of the holiday charm that brings a smile to our faces every season. As we wrap up this caffeinated adventure, let's remember to indulge in these flavors from Starbucks that summon the holiday spirit like no other.

Because, after all, it's the most wonderful time of the year to treat ourselves to the comforting and familiar, or venture out and explore a new flavor. Whether you're a fan of the timeless Pumpkin Spice Latte or up for trying the new Santa Claus Frappuccino, Starbucks' holiday drink menu is here to make your festive season even more delightful and joyous. Now, which Starbucks holiday drink is calling your name?