Starbucks knows how to usher in the holiday season. From the moment those first hints of winter start to creep into the air, coffee lovers eagerly await the return of their favorite seasonal drinks. This year, Starbucks is pulling out all the stops to keep customers coming back for more.
For 2024, we’re seeing the return of many beloved drinks, as well as some exciting new additions. You can bet that the Peppermint Mocha, a holiday tradition for over two decades, is back, but this year, there’s something extra: the first-ever holiday Refresher! Starbucks is embracing the festive season with new cold foam flavors and a mix of sweet and savory treats, making sure that every taste bud is taken care of.
Holiday Drinks: Seasonal Magic in Every Sip
If you’re a regular at Starbucks during the holidays, chances are you’ve already started dreaming about your favorite drinks. The holiday menu is always a mix of nostalgia and excitement, and this year is no different.
- Peppermint Mocha: A fan favorite for over two decades
The Peppermint Mocha has been a part of Starbucks’ holiday lineup for more than 20 years, and it’s easy to see why. This creamy, minty latte with swirls of rich mocha sauce has become the drink that signals the start of the holiday season. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls, it’s a decadent treat that’s available hot, iced, or even blended into a Frappuccino for those extra-sweet cravings.
- Caramel Brulée Latte: A classic creamy treat
Another holiday favorite is the Caramel Brulée Latte. This smooth, rich drink is made with a velvety caramel sauce that’s combined with steamed milk and espresso. It’s finished off with crispy caramelized sugar on top, making it a true indulgence.
- Chestnut Praline Latte: Nutty and cozy
This drink offers a warm, comforting taste of roasted chestnuts and spices. The Chestnut Praline Latte is a great choice for those who want a subtle sweetness balanced with a hint of spice. It’s a cozy drink that feels like a hug in a cup.
- Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte: Sweet, dairy-free goodness
For those seeking a dairy-free option, Starbucks’ Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte is perfect. This drink features almond milk, a smooth espresso base, and sugar cookie syrup — making it a sweet, creamy, and dairy-free option that will make you feel like you’re sipping on a holiday treat.
- Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai: A warm, spicy delight
If you love the combination of chai spices with a hint of gingerbread, this is the drink for you. Made with oat milk and a blend of spices, the Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai is perfect for those who want a little kick in their seasonal beverage.
- Cran-Merry Orange Refresher: First-ever holiday Refresher
For the first time ever, Starbucks is offering a holiday Refresher, and it’s a delicious mix of cranberry, orange, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The Cran-Merry Orange Refresher is available in three variations, including lemonade or coconut milk as the base. This refreshing drink is perfect for those who prefer something lighter and less coffee-heavy.
New Cold Foam Creations: A Game-Changer
In 2024, Starbucks is taking its cold foam game to the next level. Cold foam is the creamy topping that elevates any cold drink, and this season, there are six new flavors to choose from:
- Peppermint Chocolate Cold Foam: The peppermint mocha’s perfect partner
- Sugar Cookie Cold Foam: A sweet, smooth foam with hints of sugar cookie
- Chestnut Praline Cold Foam: A nutty and creamy topping for cold brews
- Caramel Brulée Cold Foam: Sweet and buttery, just like the latte
- Gingerbread Cold Foam: Spicy and creamy, just like a gingerbread cookie
- Salted Pecan Cold Foam: A perfect balance of sweet and salty
You can top your cold brew with any of these cold foam options for an added burst of flavor, making your drink even more festive. The cold foams are rich, creamy, and customizable — giving you endless ways to enjoy your holiday drink.
Seasonal Treats and Pastries: Sweet and Savory Options
Starbucks doesn’t stop at drinks. This year’s holiday menu includes an array of sweet and savory options to complement your coffee break.
- Cranberry Bliss Bar: A holiday staple
This beloved treat is a sweet, tangy, and decadent bar filled with dried cranberries and white chocolate. It’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet and has become a hallmark of Starbucks’ holiday offerings.
- Sugar Plum Cheese Danish: A fruity twist
The Sugar Plum Cheese Danish is a deliciously flaky pastry filled with sweet cheese and topped with a sugar plum glaze. It’s a unique twist on the traditional cheese danish and perfect for those who enjoy fruity desserts.
- New Savory Pastry: Turkey Sage Danish
If you’re craving something savory, the Turkey Sage Danish is a new addition to the holiday menu. Filled with turkey sausage and a creamy béchamel sauce, this savory pastry is a welcome addition to the Starbucks holiday spread.
- Sweet New Additions: Dark Toffee Bundt, Penguin Cookie, and Snowman Cake Pop
Alongside the classics, Starbucks is offering a few new sweet treats this season, including the Dark Toffee Bundt, Penguin Cookie, and Snowman Cake Pop. These festive sweets are designed to bring a smile to your face while satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Non-Dairy Options: The Inclusion Revolution
This year, Starbucks is making their holiday menu more inclusive by cutting extra fees on non-dairy customizations for all drinks. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just prefer plant-based options, this change makes it easier for everyone to enjoy their favorite seasonal drinks without the added cost. Non-dairy milks like oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk are available at no additional charge, allowing you to enjoy the holidays without restrictions.
Starbucks’ New Approach to Menu Innovation
Under the leadership of CEO Brian Niccol, Starbucks is streamlining its menu to focus on core offerings. While this year’s holiday menu is packed with fan favorites, there are fewer new espresso-based drinks, signaling a shift in strategy. The company is refining its offerings to improve operational efficiency, and it seems the Oleato line might be phased out, at least temporarily, as part of this transition.
Home Brewing Fans Rejoice: Limited-Edition Holiday Blends
For those who prefer brewing their own coffee at home, Starbucks has introduced three limited-edition coffee blends available through the end of the year:
- Thanksgiving Blend
- Christmas Blend
- Holiday Blend
These special blends are crafted to bring the flavors of the season to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy Starbucks holiday magic from the comfort of your home.
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Conclusion
Starbucks’ 2024 holiday menu is a true celebration of the season, offering a wide variety of drinks, cold foams, pastries, and more. Whether you’re a fan of classic lattes like the Peppermint Mocha or excited to try the new Cran-Merry Orange Refresher, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With new cold foam flavors, savory pastries, and non-dairy options, Starbucks is making sure that everyone can indulge in the holiday spirit — no matter their preferences. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your local Starbucks and start sipping on some holiday cheer!
FAQs
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What time does Starbucks’ holiday menu launch?
- Starbucks’ holiday menu usually rolls out nationwide in early November, typically on November 7th.
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Can I customize my holiday drink with non-dairy milk?
- Yes! Starbucks offers a range of non-dairy milk options, including oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk, all available at no extra cost this year.
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Is the Cran-Merry Orange Refresher available all season?
- Yes, the Cran-Merry Orange Refresher is a new holiday drink that will be available throughout the season.
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How long will the seasonal drinks be available?
- Most of Starbucks’ holiday menu items will be available until early January, but availability can vary by location.
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Are there any gluten-free options on the holiday menu?
- Starbucks offers a range of gluten-free options, including some beverages and certain pastries, but it’s always a good idea to check with your barista for specific details.