10 Must-Try Starbucks Drinks: Secret Menu Included

Navigating the vast Starbucks menu can feel like an adventure, maybe even a little overwhelming. With countless combinations, seasonal specials, and the ever-elusive “secret menu,” how do you decide which starbucks drink to try next? Are you stuck in a rut with your usual order, curious about the latest TikTok craze, or simply looking for a new favorite? It’s a common challenge – wanting to explore but not knowing where to start, fearing you might order something you won’t enjoy.

To find the best Starbucks drink to try, consider exploring popular choices like the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso for a balanced coffee kick, the customizable Pink Drink for a refreshing fruity option, or delve into the secret menu by requesting specific ingredient combinations like a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with added syrups.

This guide is your passport to exploring the best of Starbucks. We’ll dive deep into iced sensations, uncover the secrets behind those viral custom orders, revisit beloved classics with a twist, and even show you how to become a master of customization. Get ready to discover refreshing iced coffees, comforting hot beverages, decadent Frappuccinos, and maybe even your next go-to starbucks drink to try.

Key Facts:
* Customization is King: Starbucks offers extensive customization options, from milk alternatives (oat, almond, soy, coconut) to a wide array of syrups, toppings, and espresso shot variations, allowing for millions of potential drink combinations.
* Cold Coffee Dominance: Cold beverages, including iced coffee, cold brew, and Refreshers, make up a significant portion of Starbucks sales, reflecting a major shift in consumer preference year-round. According to Starbucks reports, cold drinks accounted for roughly 75% of beverage sales in recent years.
* Secret Menu Reality: The “secret menu” isn’t official but consists of customer-created recipes using standard Starbucks ingredients. Ordering requires knowing the exact recipe build, not just a unofficial name.
* TikTok Influence: Social media platforms like TikTok significantly impact drink popularity, often driving trends for specific customizations and “secret” combinations, like the viral Pink Drink variations.
* Seasonal Rotations: Starbucks keeps its menu fresh and exciting by introducing new and returning seasonal drinks throughout the year, such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte in fall or peppermint-flavored drinks during the holidays.

Starbucks Iced Coffee: Refreshing and Customizable Coolers

What Starbucks iced coffee should I try when I need a cool caffeine fix? The answer lies in Starbucks’ diverse iced coffee menu, featuring smooth Cold Brew, bold Iced Espresso drinks, and classic Iced Coffee, all highly customizable. From subtly sweet to intensely flavorful, there’s an iced option for every palate.

Starbucks’ journey into cold coffee has evolved significantly. While traditional iced coffee (chilled brewed coffee) is still available, the spotlight often shines on Cold Brew. Prepared by steeping grounds in cold water for an extended period (typically 20 hours), Cold Brew offers a naturally smoother, less acidic taste compared to its hot-brewed-then-chilled counterpart. This makes it a fantastic base for various flavors and additions. Then there’s Nitro Cold Brew, infused with nitrogen for a velvety, creamy texture and a cascading effect, often served unsweetened to let the coffee’s natural flavors shine.

Beyond the brews, the iced espresso lineup is where things get really exciting. The Iced Shaken Espresso drinks, like the wildly popular Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, involve shaking espresso shots with flavorings and milk, creating a perfectly chilled and integrated beverage. Don’t forget classics like the Iced Caramel Macchiato, instantly recognizable by its signature caramel drizzle crosshatch, or a simple Iced Latte, easily tailored with your favorite syrup. Customization is key – swap milks, add cold foam (Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam is a fan favorite!), adjust sweetness, or add an extra shot for a truly personalized starbucks drink to try.

Starbucks Secret Menu: Unlock Hidden Gems and Customized Creations

How do you order from the Starbucks secret menu? Ordering from the Starbucks secret menu involves specifying the exact recipe build—base drink, modifications, syrups, toppings—rather than asking for an unofficial name, as baristas aren’t trained on these custom creations. It’s all about knowing the ingredients and how to ask for them correctly.

The “secret menu” is less a hidden list and more a testament to the creativity of Starbucks fans and baristas, leveraging the vast array of available ingredients. These are drinks born from experimentation, shared online, and often gain viral status. Think of it as off-menu customization pushed to its limits. Drinks like the “Butterbeer Frappuccino” or the “Pink Drink” (before it became official) gained fame through word-of-mouth and social media.

Ready to dive in?

You need to break down the desired drink into its components. What’s the base beverage (e.g., Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino, Iced Chai Latte)? What syrups need to be added (e.g., pumps of caramel, toffee nut)? Are there specific milk choices or toppings (e.g., oat milk, caramel drizzle, cold foam)? Being clear and concise with your order ensures the barista can make it accurately and keeps the line moving.

Viral TikTok Starbucks Drinks: Stay on Trend with the Latest Creations

What are the must-try viral TikTok Starbucks drinks? Viral TikTok Starbucks drinks often feature unique customizations like specific cold foams, drizzles, or powder additions to popular bases like the Pink Drink or Iced Matcha Latte. These trending orders change frequently, driven by user creativity and social media buzz.

TikTok has become a major hub for Starbucks drink innovation. Users share their custom orders, often with catchy names and specific instructions, leading to widespread trends. A prime example was the surge in popularity for drinks like an Iced White Mocha with Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam and extra caramel drizzle, or variations on the Pink Drink involving additions like matcha cold foam. These aren’t official menu items, but rather specific customizations that caught fire online.

To order a TikTok-famous starbucks drink to try, you absolutely must know the recipe. Don’t just ask for “the TikTok drink.” Instead, specify the base drink and every single modification. For instance, ordering the “Pink Drink with Vanilla Cold Foam and Matcha Powder blended into the foam” requires stating each element clearly. Check recent TikTok videos or compilation lists online for the latest trending recipes and their exact builds before heading to the store.

Deconstructing the Starbucks Secret Menu: A Guide to Ordering

How do you effectively order a Starbucks secret menu item? Effectively ordering a secret menu item means providing the barista with the step-by-step recipe: start with the standard menu drink it’s based on, then list every modification, including syrups, milk type, toppings, and blending instructions. Remember, patience and clarity are key.

Since the secret menu isn’t official, baristas aren’t trained on names like “Cinderella Latte” or “Skittles Frappuccino.” Trying to order by name alone often leads to confusion. The secret is to reverse-engineer the drink.

Here’s a simple process:

1. Identify the Base Drink: Most secret menu items are modified versions of existing menu drinks (e.g., a Caffè Latte, a Caramel Frappuccino, an Iced Tea). Start your order with this base.
2. Specify Milk: If different from the standard, state your milk preference (oat, almond, soy, nonfat, etc.).
3. List Syrups: Clearly state the type and number of pumps for each syrup (e.g., “add 2 pumps of vanilla syrup and 1 pump of hazelnut syrup”).
4. Add Sauces/Drizzles: Specify any sauces or drizzles (e.g., “with mocha drizzle inside the cup,” “extra caramel drizzle on top”).
5. Include Powders/Inclusions: Mention additions like vanilla bean powder, matcha powder, or fruit inclusions.
6. Request Toppings: Ask for specific toppings like whipped cream, cold foam (specify type), or sprinkles.
7. Blending/Shaking: If it’s a Frappuccino or Shaken Espresso variation, ensure that part is clear.

Key Takeaway: Ordering from the secret menu is like giving custom directions. Know your destination (the drink) and provide clear, step-by-step instructions using standard Starbucks ingredients and modifications.

Classic Starbucks Favorites: Reimagined and Elevated

What are some classic Starbucks drinks everyone should try? Classic must-try Starbucks drinks include the balanced Caramel Macchiato, the seasonally beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte, the smooth Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew, and the versatile Caffè Latte. These staples offer time-tested flavor profiles that form the foundation of the menu.

These aren’t just drinks; they’re icons. The Caramel Macchiato, served hot or iced, features steamed milk marked with espresso and topped with vanilla syrup and a signature caramel crosshatch. It’s a layered experience, starting sweet and finishing with a bolder coffee note. The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) needs no introduction; its blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove signals the arrival of autumn for many.

Then there’s the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew, a perfect example of elevating a simple concept. Smooth cold brew coffee is topped with a float of house-made vanilla sweet cream, creating a beautifully balanced and subtly sweet beverage. And the Caffè Latte, simply espresso and steamed milk topped with a light layer of foam, is the ultimate canvas for customization, yet perfect in its original form. These classics remain popular for a reason – they deliver consistent quality and satisfying flavors, making them a great starbucks drink to try for newcomers and regulars alike.

Customization is Key: Personalize Your Starbucks Order

How can you customize your Starbucks drink order? You can customize your Starbucks drink by choosing milk alternatives (oat, soy, almond, coconut), selecting from various syrups (including sugar-free options), adding espresso shots, requesting different toppings like cold foam or drizzles, and adjusting sweetness levels.

Starbucks’ extensive customization options are what truly set it apart. It’s not just about choosing a drink; it’s about making it your drink. Start with the basics:

• Milk: Beyond standard 2%, whole, and nonfat milk, Starbucks offers oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Each imparts a slightly different flavor and texture. Oat milk is creamy and popular in lattes, while almond milk is lighter with a nutty note.
• Syrups & Sauces: This is where flavor transformation happens. Vanilla (including sugar-free), Caramel, Hazelnut, Mocha, White Mocha, Toffee Nut, Cinnamon Dolce, and seasonal options allow for endless combinations. You can adjust the number of pumps to control sweetness.
• Espresso: Add an extra shot for more kick, request Blonde Espresso for a smoother, lighter flavor, or ask for ristretto shots (less water pulled through) for a more concentrated espresso flavor.
• Toppings: Whipped cream is standard on many drinks, but you can add it to others. Cold foam (like Vanilla Sweet Cream, Salted Caramel Cream, or Matcha) adds a luxurious layer. Drizzles (caramel, mocha) provide extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Temperature & Preparation: Ask for your drink “extra hot,” specify “light ice” or “no ice,” or request blended additions for Frappuccinos.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding a pump of raspberry to your Mocha or asking for cinnamon powder steamed into the milk of your latte. Small tweaks can lead to discovering your perfect, unique starbucks drink to try.

Tip: Use the Starbucks app to explore customization options easily before you order. It visualizes the changes and calculates the cost.

Hot Starbucks Drinks: Warm Up with Comforting Classics and Seasonal Specials

What are the best hot Starbucks drinks to try? Top hot Starbucks drinks include comforting classics like the Caffè Latte and Cappuccino, flavorful options like the Cinnamon Dolce Latte or White Chocolate Mocha, and highly anticipated seasonal specials such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte or Peppermint Mocha.

When the weather cools down or you simply crave warmth, Starbucks’ hot beverage menu offers solace and flavor. The foundation often rests on espresso: the Caffè Latte offers a milky, smooth experience, while the Cappuccino provides a frothier texture with a bolder coffee presence due to less milk. For those who enjoy sweetness and spice, the Cinnamon Dolce Latte, with its cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and topping, is a year-round favorite. The White Chocolate Mocha provides a rich, sweet, and creamy alternative to the standard mocha.

Beyond the mainstays, seasonal hot drinks generate significant excitement. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is the quintessential fall beverage, while the Peppermint Mocha, typically arriving for the winter holidays, blends espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce, and peppermint syrup, topped with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls. Other seasonal rotations might include drinks featuring caramel brûlée, gingerbread, or chestnut praline flavors. Exploring these limited-time offerings is a great way to discover a new favorite hot starbucks drink to try. Don’t forget non-espresso options like hot teas (Chai Tea Latte, London Fog) or a classic Hot Chocolate for caffeine-free comfort.

Starbucks Frappuccinos: Blended Beverages for a Sweet Treat

What exactly is a Starbucks Frappuccino and which flavors are best? A Starbucks Frappuccino is a signature line of blended iced beverages, typically containing coffee (though crème versions are coffee-free), milk, ice, and flavorings, topped with whipped cream. Popular flavors include Caramel, Mocha, Vanilla Bean (crème), and seasonal variations.

Frappuccinos are essentially Starbucks’ answer to the milkshake, but with a distinct coffeehouse twist. They come in two main categories:

1. Coffee Frappuccinos: These contain coffee (usually a Frappuccino Roast blend) and provide a caffeine kick alongside their sweet flavor. Examples include the classic Coffee Frappuccino, Mocha Frappuccino, Caramel Frappuccino, and Java Chip Frappuccino (with chocolate chips blended in).
2. Crème Frappuccinos: These are coffee-free, making them a great option for kids or those avoiding caffeine. They use a crème base instead of coffee. Popular choices include the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino (a versatile base for secret menu creations), Strawberry Crème Frappuccino, and Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino.

Starbucks frequently introduces limited-time Frappuccino flavors, often tied to seasons or trends. Customization is also popular with Frappuccinos – you can substitute milk, add extra syrups or drizzles, request affogato-style (an espresso shot poured over the top), or blend in inclusions like chocolate chips or fruit. Whether you prefer a coffee boost or a sweet crème treat, there’s likely a Frappuccino starbucks drink to try.

Beyond Coffee: Exploring Starbucks’ Other Beverage Options

What non-coffee drinks does Starbucks offer? Starbucks offers a wide range of non-coffee beverages including various hot and iced teas (like Chai Lattes and Matcha Lattes), fruit-based Refreshers, Hot Chocolates, steamers (steamed milk with syrup), and sometimes smoothies or bottled juices.

If coffee isn’t your preference, or you’re just looking for something different, Starbucks has plenty to offer. The Starbucks Refreshers line provides a lighter, fruitier form of caffeination derived from green coffee extract. Popular choices include the Strawberry Açaí Refresher (the base for the Pink Drink), Mango Dragonfruit Refresher, and Kiwi Starfruit Refresher. These can be ordered with water, lemonade, or coconut milk (creating drinks like the Pink Drink, Dragon Drink, and Star Drink respectively).

The tea selection is robust. From classic black and green iced teas to herbal options, there’s plenty to explore. Standouts include the Iced Chai Tea Latte (a blend of black tea, cinnamon, clove, and other spices with milk), the Iced Matcha Latte (sweetened matcha green tea powder with milk), and the comforting Honey Citrus Mint Tea (often called the “Medicine Ball” on the secret menu). For pure indulgence without coffee, you can’t go wrong with a rich Hot Chocolate or a Steamer, which is essentially a caffeine-free latte made with steamed milk and your choice of syrup (Vanilla Crème Steamer is popular). These diverse options ensure there’s always a satisfying non-coffee starbucks drink to try.

Recreate Starbucks at Home: DIY Recipes for Your Favorite Drinks

Can you make Starbucks drinks at home? Yes, you can recreate many Starbucks drinks at home using readily available ingredients, copycat recipes, and potentially Starbucks-brand coffee beans, syrups, or K-Cups for authenticity. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy your favorites.

Making your go-to Starbucks order at home can be surprisingly simple and rewarding. Many websites and blogs specialize in “copycat” recipes that mimic popular Starbucks beverages. The key is breaking down the drink into its core components:

• Coffee/Espresso Base: Use strong brewed coffee for iced coffee or cold brew concentrate. For espresso drinks, an espresso machine (even a simple stovetop Moka pot) is ideal, but strong coffee can substitute in a pinch. Starbucks sells its own beans and ground coffee if you want authentic flavor.
• Milk: Use your preferred milk – dairy or non-dairy alternatives like oat or almond work just as well at home.
• Syrups & Sauces: You can buy coffee syrups (like vanilla, caramel, hazelnut) online or in some grocery stores. Brands like Torani or Monin are popular. You can even make simple syrup (equal parts sugar and hot water, stirred until dissolved) and infuse it with vanilla extract. Chocolate and caramel sauces are readily available.
• Specialty Ingredients: For drinks like Matcha Lattes, purchase matcha powder. For Chai Lattes, use chai concentrate or brew strong chai tea bags. Vanilla Sweet Cream can be made by whisking heavy cream, milk, and vanilla syrup.
• Equipment: A blender is essential for Frappuccinos. A milk frother (handheld or electric) helps recreate latte foam.

Start with simpler drinks like an Iced Vanilla Latte (coffee, milk, vanilla syrup, ice) or a basic Frappuccino (strong coffee, milk, sugar/syrup, ice blended). As you get more comfortable, you can tackle more complex recipes or experiment with your own custom creations. It’s a fun way to enjoy a starbucks drink to try without leaving the house.

FAQs About starbucks drink to try

What is the best Starbucks drink to try?

The “best” drink is subjective, but highly popular choices include the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, the Pink Drink (Strawberry Açaí Refresher with coconut milk), the classic Caramel Macchiato, and the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew. Consider your preference for coffee intensity, sweetness, and flavor profile (fruity, caramel, chocolate, etc.).

What to order in Starbucks Best?

For a consistently good order, try crowd-pleasers like the Caffè Latte (customizable with syrups), the smooth Cold Brew (great with Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam), or the refreshing Iced Passion Tango Tea Lemonade. If you enjoy sweeter drinks, the White Chocolate Mocha or a Caramel Frappuccino are popular choices.

How to order the TikTok Starbucks drink?

To order a TikTok drink, you must know the exact recipe. Do not ask for it by its unofficial TikTok name. Instead, specify the base drink (e.g., Venti Pink Drink) and list all modifications clearly (e.g., “add Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam,” “add 2 pumps of vanilla,” “with extra caramel drizzle”).

What is a good Starbucks iced coffee order?

A great starting point is the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew for smoothness and subtle sweetness. The Iced Caramel Macchiato offers layers of vanilla, espresso, milk, and caramel. For a stronger, less sweet option, try a plain Cold Brew or Iced Americano. The Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is trendy and balanced.

What is the most popular drink at Starbucks?

While popularity shifts seasonally, perennial favorites often include the Caffè Latte, Caramel Macchiato, Iced Coffee/Cold Brew variations, and seasonal hits like the Pumpkin Spice Latte. The Pink Drink and Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso have also seen massive popularity in recent years.

What Starbucks drink is sweet but not too sweet?

Try the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew, which has a subtle sweetness from the cream. An Iced Chai Latte offers spiced sweetness that isn’t overpowering. You can also customize any latte or iced coffee by asking for fewer pumps of syrup (e.g., a Vanilla Latte with only 1 or 2 pumps instead of the standard 3-4 for a Grande).

What is the creamiest Starbucks drink?

Drinks made with oat milk tend to be very creamy (e.g., Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso). Frappuccinos have a thick, blended texture. A Latte made with whole milk or breve (half-and-half) will also be quite creamy. Adding Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam to any iced drink enhances creaminess.

What is the famous pink drink at Starbucks?

The famous Pink Drink is a Strawberry Açaí Refresher made with coconut milk instead of water. It features flavors of strawberry, passion fruit, and açaí, combined with the creaminess of coconut milk and includes real strawberry pieces.

Can you ask for recommendations at Starbucks?

Yes, absolutely! Baristas are usually happy to offer recommendations. Tell them what flavors you generally like (sweet, fruity, strong coffee, chocolatey, etc.), whether you prefer hot or cold, and if you have any dietary restrictions. They can suggest menu items or even simple customizations you might enjoy.

What is a good beginner Starbucks drink?

Good beginner drinks include a Caffè Latte (simple, customizable), an Iced Vanilla Latte (familiar flavor), a Caramel Frappuccino (sweet, dessert-like), or a Strawberry Açaí Refresher (fruity, light caffeine). These offer popular flavor profiles without being too complex.

Exploring the world of Starbucks drinks is an ongoing journey filled with delicious possibilities. From the jolt of a perfectly pulled espresso shot in an Iced Shaken Espresso to the comforting sweetness of a classic Caramel Macchiato, or the adventurous customization found within the “secret menu,” there’s always a new starbucks drink to try. We hope this guide has inspired you to step outside your usual order and experiment.

What’s your current favorite Starbucks drink, or what new creation are you excited to try next? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below – let’s keep the coffee conversation brewing! If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with a friend who might be looking for their next Starbucks adventure.