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It’s that time of year again! The weather is colder, the holiday decorations are up, and Starbucks has unleashed its much-anticipated holiday drink menu. From classic favorites to new seasonal innovations, there’s something for everyone looking to sip on some festive cheer.
We decided to take the plunge and try every holiday drink Starbucks has to offer, and we’ve ranked them so you don’t have to. So grab your coziest sweater, a warm blanket, and let’s dive into our holiday drink taste test.
1. Caramel Brûlée Latte
Ranking: 10/10
The Caramel Brûlée Latte has become a holiday staple, and for good reason. The rich espresso mixed with steamed milk and topped with crunchy caramelized sugar makes for a perfectly sweet and indulgent treat. It’s not too sweet, and the burnt caramel notes give it a warm, slightly smoky finish that screams holiday comfort. A definite must-try if you’re looking for a festive drink to get you in the holiday spirit.
2. Peppermint Mocha
Ranking: 9.5/10
This one’s a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. The classic combination of peppermint syrup and chocolate mocha is a match made in holiday heaven. The peppermint adds a refreshing, cool zing that balances out the richness of the mocha, making every sip feel like a warm hug. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a minty, chocolaty twist on their coffee. Whether hot or iced, it’s hard to go wrong here.
3. Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte
Ranking: 9/10
A newcomer to the holiday menu, the Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte is a sweet and dairy-free option that has quickly earned a place in our hearts. The almond milk gives it a smooth, creamy texture, while the sugar cookie syrup adds a nostalgic sweetness reminiscent of Christmas cookies fresh out of the oven. If you’re into subtle sweetness with a light, comforting flavor, this is your drink.
4. Toffee Nut Latte
Ranking: 8.5/10
If you like nutty flavors, this one’s for you. The Toffee Nut Latte blends espresso with toffee nut syrup, creating a balanced sweetness with a buttery, nutty flavor. The toffee flavor is rich but not overpowering, and the latte itself has a smooth and velvety finish. It’s the kind of drink you’ll sip slowly, savoring the comforting flavors of the season.
5. Irish Cream Cold Brew
Ranking: 8/10
For those who prefer their coffee on the cold side during the holidays, the Irish Cream Cold Brew is a solid choice. This drink combines cold brew coffee with Irish cream syrup, and it’s topped with vanilla sweet cream cold foam. The result is a slightly boozy, creamy coffee that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a little different from the usual holiday hot drinks, but still festive and delicious—especially if you’re in the mood for something chilled.
6. Chestnut Praline Latte
Ranking: 7.5/10
The Chestnut Praline Latte is a warm, cozy drink, with a hint of roasted chestnuts and a buttery, toffee-like flavor. While it’s a classic for many, we found it to be a bit on the sweeter side and a little less exciting than some of the other drinks on this list. That said, it’s still a solid, comforting option for those who enjoy nutty, sweet lattes with a festive flair.
7. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ranking: 7/10
If you’re not a coffee drinker but still want to indulge in the peppermint holiday flavor, the Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a solid choice. It’s a rich, creamy hot chocolate with a splash of peppermint syrup, making it the perfect drink for anyone craving something sweet and warming. It’s a bit on the sweeter side, so if you’re a fan of more subtle flavors, this may be a little too much for your taste. But if you love peppermint and chocolate together, this is a must.
8. Frozen Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte
Ranking: 6.5/10
We really wanted to love this one, but unfortunately, the Frozen Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte didn’t quite hit the mark. While it has the same sugar cookie flavor as its hot counterpart, the frozen version didn’t deliver the same smooth texture or creamy richness. The icy consistency made the drink feel more like a sugary slush than a comforting holiday beverage. That said, if you’re a fan of cold drinks year-round, you might enjoy it, but it’s definitely not the most festive option on the menu.
9. Holiday Spice Flat White
Ranking: 6/10
This one is for those who enjoy a more spiced, less sweet holiday drink. The Holiday Spice Flat White blends espresso with steamed milk and a dash of warm, spicy cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. While the flavors are warming and comforting, it lacks the sweetness that many people love about Starbucks’ holiday offerings. It’s a more subdued choice, but still a solid option for anyone looking for something a little less sugary.
10. Eggnog Latte
Ranking: 5/10
The Eggnog Latte has a cult following, but we found it to be a bit too rich and heavy for our tastes. The eggnog flavor is quite strong, which some people love, but it can be a little overwhelming when mixed with espresso. It’s definitely a drink for those who already know they love eggnog, but for others, it may be an acquired taste. It’s festive, but not for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Starbucks has really outdone itself this year with a range of holiday drinks that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Peppermint Mocha or you’re looking for something a little different like the Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte, there’s no shortage of options to enjoy while you get into the holiday spirit.
Of course, taste is subjective, so we encourage you to try these drinks for yourself and see which ones make it to the top of your list. And with a variety of dairy-free and iced options available, there’s no excuse not to treat yourself to a little holiday indulgence this season.
Happy sipping, and may your holidays be merry and bright—one cup at a time!
