Starbucks winter holiday drink menu and red cups are back: Here’s what to know
‘Tis the season for Starbucks red cups and holiday drinks.
The coffee franchise is swapping out pumpkin spice for peppermint to bring in the season of joy.
Customers can expect the return of fan-favorite drinks and food, some new festive drinks, and of course, the return of the iconic “red cup.”
When is this year’s Starbucks holiday menu coming to stores?
Starting Thursday, Nov. 2, the holiday-inspired menu — along with five different cup designs — will be available at Starbucks stores across the United States.
What are the new drinks in 2023?
Of course, there are new flavors for customers to try this holiday season.
The new Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai is a combination of warm gingerbread notes, a blend of chai spices and creamy oat milk. It’s also available as a hot drink.
“It’s a love letter to gingerbread and ginger,” Matt Thornton, senior beverage developer at Starbucks, said in a statement. “The gingerbread flavor amplifies the spice of the chai.”
Starbucks stores that serve the olive oil-infused Oleato beverages will also have an Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte on the menu — the first Oleato holiday beverage.
What’s returning on the menu?
Seasonal favorites returning for the winter season include Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte and Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte. All of these are available hot, iced or as a Frappuccino.
Winter pastries and treats are also making a comeback, including the Cranberry Bliss Bar, Gingerbread Loaf, Peppermint Brownie Cake Pop, Snowman Cookie and Sugar Plum Cheese Danish.
What holiday drinks didn’t make the cut?
Unfortunately, the beloved Toasted White Chocolate Mocha isn’t on the holiday drinks menu for the first time since its debut in 2017.
“While we no longer offer the beverage, customers can choose from a variety of seasonal favorites, and our baristas would be happy to recommend an alternative beverage,” a spokesperson for Starbucks told the Post.
Is there a holiday menu at Starbucks Reserve stores and Roasteries?
Starbucks Reserve locations in New York City, Chicago and Seattle will not only feature festive decor but will also have a holiday menu with drinks including the Starbucks Reserve Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini, the Starbucks Reserve Peppermint Mocha, the Oleato Whiskey Barrel-Aged Cold Brew and more.
What are the five different holiday red cups?
This year’s red cup collection features four hot cups and one cold cup.
The 2023 holiday collection designs include Party Plaid, a modern take on a classic plaid scarf; Peppermint Swirl, featuring “swirling waves of color that seem to move;” Ribbon Spool, a cup wrapped in colorful ribbons; Bauble Wrap, with festive ornament shapes; and Frosted Bauble, the holiday cold cup with baubles and sparkles.
“Starbucks red cups are like little wrapped gifts for our partners and customers,” Kristy Cameron, creative director at Starbucks, said in a statement.
“My hope is that they feel excitement and joy when they see the cups, and that they want to share them with family and friends.”