Discover the Heavenly Array of Starbucks' Best Coffee Drinks!

Are you ready to discover the most irresistible and captivating beverages that Starbucks has to offer? Get ready to treat your taste buds to a symphony of flavors as we delve into the world of the best coffee drinks at Starbucks. From velvety Nitro Cold Brew to indulgent Pumpkin Spice Latte, each sip is an adventure waiting to be explored. Join us on this caffeine-filled journey and unlock the secrets to the ultimate Starbucks experience. Get ready to sip, savor, and succumb to the allure of these mesmerizing concoctions.

Nitro Cold Brew

Nutritional information: This drink contains 5 calories and 0 grams of sugar.

Starbucks packages and sells their Nitro Cold Brew in cans, making it available in supermarkets and convenience stores. This drink is not only convenient but also delicious! However, if you're visiting a Starbucks store, why not indulge a little and have it topped with vanilla sweet cream?

Starbucks Cold Brew

Nutritional information: This drink contains 5 calories and 0 grams of sugar.

Starbucks Cold Brew is a perfectly smooth and satisfying drink. While the original version is great, it's worth trying the various creative variations available, such as those topped with cold foam. Ordering a regular Cold Brew might not fully take advantage of the exciting options Starbucks has to offer.

Iced Coffee with Milk

Before the rise of cold brew, there was iced coffee. It's a simple and refreshing drink made by chilling drip coffee with ice and adding cold milk. While it may seem plain, sometimes that simplicity is all you need. If you can't make it to a Starbucks, you can try making an iced latte at home.

Originally Published: June 01, 2023

Cold Brew

We've already discussed our love for Starbucks' plain iced coffee, so it's no surprise that their regular Cold Brew is a favorite as well. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a strong coffee with a higher dose of caffeine in each sip. According to Healthline, a 16-ounce cup of Starbucks Cold Brew contains 205 milligrams of caffeine. If you're looking to limit your caffeine intake, this might not be the best choice. However, it's not just the caffeine content that sets this drink apart. The slight sweetness of the cold brew adds to its appeal and makes it a delightful choice for coffee lovers.

Similar to iced coffee, Starbucks Cold Brew is highly customizable. You can add cream or milk to make it richer, or a touch of sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try both for a truly unique experience. No matter how you prefer your cold brew, starting your day with this drink is a great way to kickstart your morning.

Classic Cold Brew

The Classic Cold Brew may not be everyone's cup of tea, as it has a bitter and straightforward taste. However, if you're a fan of a strong and bold cold brew, this is a must-try. If the bitterness is too much for your liking, you can always add syrup or flavored cold cream to mellow it out while still enjoying the essence of coffee.

via starbucks.com

Iced Toasted Vanilla Oat Milk Shaken Espresso

It may sound like a mouthful to order, but trust us, it's worth it. Starbucks' shaken espresso is a take on the Italian shakerato, a chilled espresso. The addition of toasted vanilla syrup gives this frothy, oat milk-infused espresso beverage a caramelized flavor, elevating it from the traditional Italian drink. Regardless of the time of day or season, this drink is a real treat for your taste buds.

via starbucks.com

Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte

Nutritional information: This drink contains 150 calories and 25 grams of sugar.

If you're not immediately drawn to the red and green holiday sprinkles on this drink, you might be missing out! This latte is a visual delight, but its taste may not live up to its appearance. The overwhelming sweetness of the drink brings to mind holiday beverages found at other establishments, and not necessarily in a good way. However, if you're craving those familiar holiday flavors, you have the option to order it hot instead.

Chocolate Cream Cold Brew | Courtesy of Starbucks

Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Allison ArnoldOut of all the flavored iced coffee drinks, this one stands out as a favorite. The combination of espresso shaken with oat milk and brown sugar syrup creates a delightful, slightly sweet, and toasty iced beverage. This drink is a must-try and we hope it remains on the menu.

Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte

If you're in the mood for something unique and intriguing, the Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte is worth a try. What sets this beverage apart is the inclusion of hazelnut and praline-infused milk. The combination creates a nutty, slightly sweet flavor profile that offers a complexity rarely found in other drinks. The nuttiness, when combined with Starbucks' small-batch Reserve espresso, creates a heavenly match. We love this latte because it is incredibly smooth, mildly sweet, and offers a unique subtlety that stands out among the more sugary options. While it may look like a regular latte, your taste buds will experience something entirely different when you take the first sip.

The Iced Hazelnut Bianco is the perfect option if you're looking to switch up your regular Starbucks order without opting for the overly sweet and complicated choices on the menu. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll appreciate the prominent notes of candied praline in the syrup. But even if you don't, the hazelnut flavor alone makes this drink a standout option at Starbucks.

Iced Caramel Macchiato

Allison ArnoldAs someone who had never tried a Caramel Macchiato before, I expected it to be sweet, decadent, and creamy. With pumps of vanilla syrup and a drizzle of caramel on top, this drink strikes a delicate balance of sweetness without being overwhelming. However, when you mix the drink, you may encounter clumps of caramel, which can be a matter of personal preference.

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Iced White Chocolate Mocha

The White Chocolate Mocha is a legendary drink at Starbucks and one that many people have tried at least once. However, if you're looking for a similar flavor profile during the hot summer months, the Iced White Chocolate Mocha is the way to go. It offers the same beloved taste in a refreshing cold format. While it may not surpass the original in terms of creaminess, it still offers a satisfying and indulgent experience, especially on scorching days. Although the iced version may not match the hot drink completely, it's still worth trying for chocolate lovers.

Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Allison ArnoldThis latte, with its cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and sprinkles, reminds me of a snickerdoodle cookie. If you enjoy the taste of cinnamon, you'll love this drink.

Iced Oatmilk Honey Latte

Allison ArnoldAlthough I ordered an Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White, which should have one more shot of espresso than a latte, I received an Iced Oatmilk Honey Latte instead. However, it was a pleasant surprise. Made with Starbucks Blonde Espresso Roast, oat milk, honey blend, and a toasted honey topping, this latte offers a more complex flavor profile beyond regular syrup. The addition of honey provides a unique and enjoyable taste.

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Iced Pistachio Latte

It's not every day that you come across an Iced Pistachio Latte, which is what makes it so exciting. This drink offers a different experience compared to other options. It is somewhat less sweet but still incredibly delicious. The combination of Starbucks coffee with four pumps of pistachio sauce creates a balanced and flavorful drink. While the sauce isn't as sweet as some syrups, it provides just the right touch of flavor without overwhelming the overall taste. Don't be surprised if you catch a hint of sweetness in your first sip.

We also adore the salted brown butter topping that comes with the iced pistachio latte. While it's optional, the combination of sweetness and richness from the brown butter, along with a hint of salt, adds an extra layer of depth to the drink. Mixed with a splash of milk, this latte has the potential to become one of your favorites at Starbucks.

Iced Dark Chocolate Mocha

If you're craving the richest and most indulgent iced drink Starbucks has to offer, look no further than the Iced Dark Chocolate Mocha. While the coffee flavor may not take center stage in this drink, the intense dark chocolate notes make up for it. This chocolatey treat feels luxurious without being overly sweet. The espresso blends harmoniously with cocoa and ground chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced bittersweet sensation.

The default choice for this drink is whole milk, which enhances its creaminess. However, if you prefer a dairy-free alternative, oat milk is a great option that adds a velvety texture. Regardless of your usual coffee preferences, if you're a chocolate lover, this is definitely a Starbucks drink you shouldn't miss.

Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte

If you prefer a milder coffee taste, Starbucks offers plenty of lighter options. The Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a smooth and less intense coffee experience. The vanilla roast adds a subtle sweetness rather than overpowering the flavors of the coffee. You can also customize your milk choice, which will affect the overall profile of the latte. For a smooth and traditional combination, whole milk is recommended. However, if you prefer a lighter option and want to avoid animal products, oat milk provides a great alternative.

As a word of caution, note that this drink can be quite sweet, especially when paired with its creamy texture. For some, this is perfect, but if you prefer less sweetness, you can request yours without any added sweetener. Rest assured, it will still offer the smooth and luxurious experience you desire without overwhelming your taste buds.

Iced Caramel Macchiato

Once upon a time, the Iced Caramel Macchiato was our go-to Starbucks drink. While it's great for an occasional treat, the sweetness can be a bit overpowering for regular consumption. With three pumps of vanilla syrup and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, this drink leans heavily on the caramel flavor. The milk helps balance the sweetness, especially when using whole milk. However, even with these efforts, the sugar rush can be quite intense. To take it to the next level, you can add whipped cream, turning it into a delightful dessert-like indulgence. If that's what you're seeking in your coffee experience, look no further. However, if you're looking for a more everyday drink, we recommend exploring the other options on this list. The Iced Caramel Macchiato is perfect for those with a serious sweet tooth.

Caramel Brulée Frappuccino

Nutritional information: This drink contains 470 calories and 60 grams of sugar.

The Caramel Brulée Frappuccino is an interesting take on a hot dessert usually enjoyed warm rather than cold. The flavors of caramel typically shine best in a hot environment. While this frappuccino is not bad, it doesn't live up to expectations. The combination of vanilla whipped cream, coffee, and dark caramel sauce works together, but the promised crunchy caramelized topping is not as prominent as anticipated. The whipped cream does have a layer of something resembling a crunch, but it falls short of the expected texture.

Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino

Nutritional information: This drink contains 480 calories and 55 grams of sugar.

It's hard to believe that a Frappuccino combining mocha and cookies could be ranked 33rd. However, this particular drink is overwhelmingly sweet and feels like a sugar bomb. The heavy dose of sugar makes it difficult to enjoy without feeling the need to visit the dentist. Surprisingly, the Mocha Frappuccino, which contains a similar amount of sugar, is much less cavity-inducing.

Strawberry Crème Frappuccino

Nutritional information: This drink contains 370 calories and 51 grams of sugar.

If you were a fan of Strawberry Crème Frappuccinos during your middle school days, you're not alone. While this beverage may not have the same popularity it once did, it still offers the classic taste of a strawberry milkshake, which is always enjoyable.

White Chocolate Mocha

Nutritional information: This drink contains 430 calories and 53 grams of sugar.

As much as we want to love the White Chocolate Mocha, it falls short of expectations. While it contains ample sugar, cream, and coffee flavor, the white mocha doesn't quite bring everything together. Instead, it tries to overpower the coffee and cream, leading to an unbalanced taste experience.

Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Nutritional info: 340 calories, 40 grams of sugar

The Cinnamon Dolce Latte was my favorite drink in high school. I felt sophisticated carrying around my expensive Starbucks cup through the halls, but the choice of drink was more than just a symbol of teenage embarrassment. It was (and still is!) delicious. It's not groundbreaking, but it's definitely not boring either.

Vanilla Latte

A vanilla latte is like chicken on a restaurant menu. In the culinary world, it's often said that a good chef is known for their ability to prepare a simple chicken dish exceptionally well. Similarly, if a coffee shop can make a great vanilla latte, then you know they're a good coffee shop. Luckily, Starbucks doesn't disappoint with their perfectly steamed, never-too-sweet vanilla latte.

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via starbucks.com

Caffè Americano

Nutritional info: 15 calories, 0 grams sugar

Starbucks coffee is greatly enhanced by a splash of milk and a little sugar. And you know what? When I drink a Caffè Americano, I miss those ingredients.

Caffè Latte

Nutritional info: 190 calories, 18 grams sugar

Steamed milk, espresso. It comes with a layer of foam on top. I love when the foam touches my top lip, like a little milk pillow supporting it as I sip warm espresso into my mouth. I'm a bit surprised that I actually prefer this over some of their flavored lattes, especially given my well-known love for sugary flavors. But this simple drink truly delivers.

Caffè Mocha

Nutritional info: 370 calories, 35 grams sugar

Ooo, it's like an adult hot chocolate! I want to fill my bathtub with it, cover myself in marshmallows, and spend the day sitting in the tub eating marshmallows. Is this drink a movie on Cinemax at 2 am? Because it has sinfully delicious mocha notes. And it's currently the best drink at Starbucks.

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Lee Breslouer writes about food and drink, and surprisingly, he isn't tired of coffee as much as one would expect. Follow him to earn Starbucks Rewards stars: @LeeBreslouer. Megan Schaltegger is a Staff Writer on the News team at Thrillist.

Pike Place Roast

It's hard to believe, but Starbucks actually started out as a humble, single storefront in Seattle. While everything from the Starbucks logo to creative drink creations has changed over the years, one thing remains constant—the classic Pike Place Roast. You can get this medium roast coffee at any Starbucks location, any time of year. It's always there to provide a comforting cup of drip coffee when you just need something simple.

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via starbucks.com

Pink Drink Starbucks Refreshers Beverage

Nutritional info: 140 calories, 25 grams sugar

The Pink Drink used to be a secret menu item, but it gained so much popularity that Starbucks added it to the official menu. And we can see why. While it may not be an everyday order for everyone, it is refreshing and offers a sweet change from the usual coffee routine. The fresh strawberries are an added bonus!

Mango Dragon fruit Starbucks Refreshers Beverage

Nutritional info: 90 calories, 19 grams sugar

This drink is not just a beverage, it's a visual delight. It screams to everyone who sees it, "I just bought a wine-colored drink from Starbucks with real fruit in it!" It practically begs to be posted on Instagram. And yes, there are dragonfruit seeds and actual dragonfruit floating in there. They're hard to miss. The flavor is as tropical as the appearance and name of the drink promises. Even though dragonfruit plays a major role, the taste of mango lingers on your palate before slowly fading away. But that photo you posted on Instagram? That stays forever, my friends.

Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refreshers Beverage

Nutritional info: 100 calories, 19 grams of sugar

The flavor is a bit underwhelming, with a slightly tart aftertaste. However, the pineapple chunks in the drink are a redeeming factor.

Strawberry Acai Lemonade Refresher

If you're a fan of the Pink Drink, then chances are you'll love the strawberry acai lemonade version too! Of course, you can enjoy this Refresher without the lemonade, but adding it gives the drink an extra thirst-quenching boost, especially on a hot day.

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via starbucks.com

Pink Drink Refresher

Speaking of refreshments, Starbucks Refreshers are a drink that we never knew we needed until we took that first sip. The Pink Drink Refresher starts with a base of strawberry acai and is then enhanced with passion fruit and coconut milk to add a touch of sweetness.

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via starbucks.com

Dragon Drink Refresher

Dragon fruit may be one of the most unique fruits you'll ever eat, but it sure makes for a fantastic Refresher. When combined with sweet mango and creamy coconut milk, this drink is perfect for when you're in need of something refreshing that isn't lemonade or iced tea.

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via starbucks.com

Royal English Breakfast Tea

Nutritional info: 0 calories, 0 grams sugar

This is a robust, black breakfast tea that benefits greatly from the addition of milk. So go ahead and order it with milk, and feel like you're a regular Benedict Cumberbatch.

Iced Black Tea Lemonade

Another non-coffee option, the iced black tea lemonade (also known as an Arnold Palmer) hits the spot on hot days when coffee feels too heavy and plain iced tea just doesn't cut it. Remember, you can always customize your drink to your liking. Ask for a lighter or extra lemonade based on how sweet you want it to taste.

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via starbucks.com

Chai Tea Latte

A good chai tea warms you from the inside out. The spices should never overpower, but instead give you that feeling of being hugged with every sip. The chai tea latte takes the spiced tea to the next level with the addition of steamed milk and a foam topping. And on top of that, it's considered a healthy Starbucks drink to order.

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via starbucks.com

Iced Green Tea Lemonade

Nutritional info: 50 calories, 11g sugar

The sweet and sugary lemonade tends to overpower the other flavors in this drink, almost like a sugary bull running through the streets of Pamplona. However, in this case, it shares the spotlight with the notes of green tea. I adore Teavana's Iced Green Tea, and this jazzed up version might just become one of my go-to drinks.

Matcha Tea Latte

Nutritional info: 240 calories, 32 grams sugar

This beverage is truly soothing. The earthy taste of green tea blends perfectly with the sweetness of the warm milk and the layer of foam on top. If you need a break from coffee and have a love for green tea, then this is a must-try.

Hot Chocolate

Nutritional info: 370 calories, 37 grams sugar

I used to know a lot of people in college that I don't keep in touch with anymore. That's normal, part of growing up and all. I also used to drink a lot of hot chocolate as a kid, but not so much anymore. Also part of growing up. But when I see those old friends again or take a sip of hot chocolate, it transports me back. Suddenly, I'm 13 years old, watching my brother play soccer on a windy day, wishing I was inside watching football instead. But there I am, sipping on my hot chocolate and listening to the game on the radio.

AngieYeoh/Shutterstock

Peppermint Mocha

Nutritional info: 440 calories, 54 grams sugar

The first sip is a burst of chocolate and cream, and the finish is a delightful combination of chocolate and mint. It doesn't leave an overpoweringly sweet aftertaste that makes you want to chug gallons of water to get rid of it. Is there a more appropriate holiday drink than the Peppermint Mocha? The name alone makes me want to hang a giant candy cane in the sky on Christmas Eve, waving to Santa as he delivers presents and giving a thumbs up to his hardworking reindeer. It's a seasonal classic, it's delicious, and I bet you'll start craving one when the snow starts falling on a cold December morning.

Courtesy of Starbucks

White Chocolate Mocha

Nutritional info: 430 calories, 53 grams sugar

I really want to love this drink. I really do! But I just can't force myself to. It's plenty sweet, plenty creamy, and plenty coffee-flavored, but the white mocha somehow doesn't tie it all together and ends up overpowering the coffee and cream flavors instead of complementing them.

Arlette Lopez/Shutterstock

Chestnut Praline Latte

Nutritional info: 330 calories, 39 grams sugar

They really nailed the chestnut flavor in this drink, and the finish has a subtle hint of almond from the praline. It's the holidays in a cup. It's a little too sweet in the finish, which brings it down a notch, but I wouldn't mind roasting this drink over an open flame. In a good way, of course!

Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

Nutritional info: 220 calories, 24 grams sugar

This drink actually contains 330mg of sodium. Maybe they should consider renaming it to SALTED Caramel Cream Cold Brew to give people a clearer idea of the salty kick they're about to experience with each sip.

Irish Cream Cold Brew

Here's another menu item you'll only find at Starbucks: the Irish Cream Cold Brew. At first, we weren't quite sure how to feel about it. But after a few sips, we can confidently say that it's a fantastic coffee drink that strikes the perfect balance of indulgence without being overly sweet. It all starts with Starbucks' popular cold brew, known for its low acidity compared to other cold coffees. Instead, there's a subtle sweetness that comes from the brewing process itself, not from added sugar. And of course, it packs quite a caffeine punch to get you going in no time.

But the real magic happens with the Irish Cream. A generous two pumps of Irish Cream syrup (adjustable upon request) bring just the right amount of sweetness and a whole lot of richness. The cream on top adds even more appeal, leaving you with a creamy mustache when you take a sip without a lid. It can get a little messy, but trust us, it's totally worth it.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Nutritional info: 390 calories, 50 grams of sugar 

Go ahead, make fun of it all you want, but there's a reason why the Pumpkin Spice Latte is an icon among beverages. While it can occasionally be a bit too sweet (you can always request less syrup like I do), it's a special treat. The combination of espresso with pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove is perfectly balanced and pairs beautifully together. 

Pumpkin Creme Cold Brew

Starbucks offers a seasonal drink called Pumpkin Creme Cold Brew during the fall. If you haven't tried this delightful beverage yet, make sure to head straight to your nearest Starbs when they reintroduce their fall menu. The cold brew coffee beneath is sweetened with vanilla syrup, and on top, you'll find a creamy and rich pumpkin creme that creates a beautiful swirl in the cup. The combination of flavors and nostalgic autumn vibes that this drink brings is truly unmatched.

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In a sea of endless coffee options, Starbucks has truly mastered the art of creating delectable coffee drinks that cater to every taste bud. From the smooth and velvety Nitro Cold Brew to the rich and indulgent Pumpkin Spice Latte, their extensive menu leaves no coffee craving unsatisfied. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing summer refresher like the Strawberry Acai Lemonade or in need of a cozy winter treat like the Chestnut Praline Latte, Starbucks has it all. So let your taste buds embark on a flavor-filled journey and indulge in the best coffee drinks that Starbucks has to offer.