Get ready to shake things up behind the counter with these 18 refreshing Starbucks drink recipes for baristas! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this collection of classic and unique concoctions is sure to delight customers of all ages. From sweet treats like the Classic Caramel Frappuccino and Strawberry Acai Refresher, to savory sippers like the Pumpkin Spice Latte and Chai Tea Latte, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Starbucks’ most popular drinks, from cold brews to hot chocolates. We’ll explore the key ingredients and techniques needed to bring these refreshing recipes to life, making it easy for baristas to create delicious drinks that will keep customers coming back for more. So grab your apron and let’s get brewing!
Classic Caramel Frappuccino
A refreshing and creamy drink that combines the sweetness of caramel with the richness of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup of milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1/2 cup of ice
– 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and let it cool.
2. In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, milk, ice, caramel syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the frappuccino into a glass and top with whipped cream and caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just blend and enjoy.
Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Elevate your coffee game with this creamy and delicious cold brew recipe, infused with the warmth of vanilla and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine coffee grounds and water in a large container. Stir to combine, then refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight.
2. Strain the coffee mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container. Discard the grounds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract to the whipped cream and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the cold brew coffee over the sweet cream mixture in a large glass filled with ice. Stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 12 hours (refrigeration time)
Iced White Chocolate Mocha
A refreshing twist on a classic mocha, this Iced White Chocolate Mocha is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up. Made with white chocolate, espresso, and milk, it’s a delicious treat to enjoy any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (or 1 teaspoon of instant espresso)
– 1 cup of milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons of white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the coffee according to your preferred method.
2. In a large glass filled with ice, combine the milk, sugar (if using), and brewed coffee.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips by heating them in short increments in the microwave or in a double boiler.
4. Stir the melted white chocolate into the milk mixture until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
6. Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and serve!)
Pumpkin Spice Latte
This recipe brings together the warm spices of fall and the richness of espresso to create a comforting drink that’s perfect for crisp autumn mornings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of coffee or espresso.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed coffee, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir until well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Latte
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and invigorating drink, infused with the antioxidant-rich goodness of matcha green tea. In just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy latte that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and a splash of hot water until smooth.
2. Add the milk, sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
4. Pour the latte into a glass filled with ice cubes, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just whisk and serve!)
Caramel Macchiato
Experience the perfect balance of espresso, steamed milk, and caramel flavor in this indulgent coffee drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong espresso or brewed coffee
– 3-4 oz of steamed milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup or dulce de leche
– Whipped cream and sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of espresso or make two cups of strong coffee.
2. Steam 3-4 oz of milk to the desired temperature and texture.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup or dulce de leche to the steamed milk, stirring until well combined.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the espresso shots in a large cup.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Java Chip Frappuccino
A refreshing blend of rich coffee, creamy milk, and chocolatey goodness, the Java Chip Frappuccino is a perfect treat for any coffee lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee (or 2 teaspoons of instant coffee)
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of ice
– 1/4 cup of chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and additional chocolate chips for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the coffee and set it aside to cool.
2. In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, milk, and ice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the chocolate chips and blend until well combined and the chocolate is fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding sugar if desired.
5. Pour the Frappuccino into a glass and top with whipped cream and additional chocolate chips if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe involves blending and assembling ingredients.
Toasted White Chocolate Mocha
Elevate your morning coffee game with this rich and creamy treat. This Toasted White Chocolate Mocha combines the perfect balance of flavors, featuring toasted white chocolate and a hint of mocha.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and pour into a large mug.
2. Add the unsalted butter to melt, stirring until fully incorporated.
3. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and milk until well combined.
5. Pour the white chocolate mixture into the coffee, stirring gently.
6. If desired, top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Acai Refresher
A refreshing twist on a classic summer drink, this Strawberry Acai Refresher is perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup frozen acai berries
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen strawberries, frozen acai berries, Greek yogurt, and almond milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Peach Green Tea Lemonade
Beat the heat with this unique and delicious twist on classic lemonade, infused with the subtle flavors of green tea and sweet peaches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly brewed green tea, cooled
– 1 cup freshly squeezed peach juice (or canned peach puree)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled green tea and peach juice. Stir to combine.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir well.
3. Gradually add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
4. Add the water and stir until combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of peach juice to your taste, depending on how strong you like the peach flavor.
– Experiment with different types of tea or herbal infusions for unique flavor profiles.
– Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Warm up with a delicious Cinnamon Dolce Latte, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sweet vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup of milk (whole, skim or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and extra cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until it starts to simmer.
3. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the milk. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Pour the milk mixture into a large mug.
5. Add the brewed coffee to the milk mixture.
6. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level as needed.
7. Top with whipped cream and extra cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Espresso Con Panna
Espresso con panna is a classic Italian coffee drink that combines the bold flavors of espresso with the creamy texture of whipped cream. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
– Sugar or sweetener (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong espresso according to your preferred method.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks.
3. Pour the espresso into a cup and top with the whipped cream.
4. If desired, add a spoonful of sugar or your preferred sweetener.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Note: You can adjust the amount of whipped cream to your liking, but traditionally, it should be a generous dollop on top of the espresso.
Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher
Quench your thirst with this refreshing drink that combines the sweetness of berries and the subtle tartness of hibiscus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup brewed hibiscus tea
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the mixed berries and brewed hibiscus tea.
2. Stir in the honey syrup until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher over ice cubes.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and chill.
Salted Caramel Mocha
Rich, velvety coffee meets sweet, salty caramel and a hint of creamy milk in this indulgent mocha. Perfect for a special treat or a pick-me-up on a chilly morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1/2 cup caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– Whipped cream and flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add sugar, sea salt, and 1 tablespoon of milk to the melted butter. Stir until dissolved.
4. Pour in the caramel syrup and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the mocha mixture into a large mug.
6. Top with remaining milk and a sprinkle of sea salt (if using).
7. If desired, top with whipped cream and additional sea salt.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your Salted Caramel Mocha!
Chai Tea Latte
This comforting drink combines the spices of traditional chai tea with the richness of milk, perfect for a chilly day or a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup brewed chai tea (see below for brewing instructions)
Brewing the Chai Tea:
– Bring 1 cup water to a boil.
– Add tea leaves and steep for 3-5 minutes, or until desired strength is reached.
– Strain the tea into a large mug.
Assembly:
1. Brew the chai tea according to the above instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat.
3. Add sugar and whisk until dissolved.
4. Add brewed chai tea to the warmed milk and whisk to combine.
5. Pour the mixture into the large mug.
6. Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Iced Passion Tango Tea
This refreshing tea combines the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit, tangerine, and hibiscus to create a perfect summer sipper. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this unique tea in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup passionfruit puree
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed tangerine juice
– 1 tablespoon dried hibiscus flowers
– Ice cubes
– Optional: sugar or honey to taste
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea, passionfruit puree, tangerine juice, and hibiscus flowers. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the tea over ice cubes and sweeten with sugar or honey to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a refreshing drink)
Blonde Vanilla Latte
Start your day with a creamy and comforting Blonde Vanilla Latte. This recipe combines the richness of vanilla with the smoothness of blonde espresso, topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of blonde espresso (about 1 oz)
– 3-4 pumps of vanilla syrup
– 2% milk or alternative milk
– Whipped cream and vanilla bean for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brew the blonde espresso according to your machine’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, combine the vanilla syrup and 2% milk in a 1:3 ratio (1 part syrup to 3 parts milk). Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the brewed espresso into a cup.
4. Add the vanilla-milk mixture to the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
5. Top with whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of vanilla bean.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (includes brewing time)
Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Cozy up with a warm cup of hot chocolate topped with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. This classic winter treat is perfect for cold days or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (heavy cream and sugar to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry mixture to the hot milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until hot chocolate reaches desired temperature.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Pour hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Take your coffee game to the next level with these refreshing Starbucks drink recipes! From classic favorites like Caramel Frappuccino and Pumpkin Spice Latte, to unique twists like Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew and Peach Green Tea Lemonade. With a total of 18 expert barista-approved recipes, you’ll be sipping like a pro in no time. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a new drink to try, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and brew up your own perfect cup!
