The Magic of Starbucks Holiday Drinks
Every winter, Starbucks transforms its menu into a wonderland of warmth, cheer, and comfort. As the familiar red cups appear, the anticipation builds — which holiday drink will steal the show this year? Whether you’re a fan of rich chocolate, nostalgic sugar cookies, or creamy caramel, Starbucks’ festive lineup has something for everyone.
In this ranking, we’ll dive deep into the most beloved Christmas drinks, exploring what makes each one special and where they stand in our 2025 ranking of Starbucks holiday favorites.
Grab your coziest sweater, and let’s find out which Starbucks holiday drink reigns supreme this season.
Starbucks Holiday Drink Favorites Ranked (2025 Edition)
Below, we’ve ranked the top Starbucks holiday drinks — from timeless classics to new seasonal delights — based on flavor balance, holiday vibes, and crowd appeal.
1. Peppermint Mocha — The Reigning Holiday Champion
If Christmas had a flavor, it would be the Peppermint Mocha. This drink has been a Starbucks holiday icon since its debut, combining smooth espresso with rich mocha sauce and a touch of cool peppermint. Topped with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls, it’s indulgent yet refreshing — the perfect balance of cozy and festive.
Why It’s #1:
The Peppermint Mocha captures the essence of the holidays in one sip. It’s both nostalgic and invigorating, ideal for chilly mornings or late-night holiday strolls.
Best Pairing: Try it with a classic Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bar for a sweet-tart combo that feels like Christmas in every bite.
Customization Tip: Ask for half mocha and half white chocolate mocha for a softer, creamier twist.
2. Caramel Brulée Latte — The Sweet Caramel Dream
Caramel lovers, rejoice! The Caramel Brulée Latte combines Starbucks’ signature espresso with steamed milk and rich caramel brulée sauce, topped with whipped cream and caramelized sugar bits.
This drink is luxurious, buttery, and incredibly smooth — like sipping dessert in a cup.
Why It’s #2:
Its toasty caramel flavor and hint of smokiness make it a top contender for those who crave sweetness with sophistication.
Best Pairing: Enjoy with a warm slice of banana bread or a buttery croissant for the ultimate comfort moment.
Customization Tip: Try it with oat milk for a slightly nutty flavor that enhances the caramel notes.
3. Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte — The Festive Favorite for Everyone
Introduced to celebrate inclusivity, the Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte quickly became a holiday sensation. This non-dairy option features sugar cookie syrup, blonde espresso, and almondmilk — topped with festive red and green sprinkles.
Why It’s #3:
It’s light, sweet, and perfectly balanced. The sugar cookie flavor evokes cozy holiday baking sessions without feeling too heavy.
Best Pairing: A Snowman Cookie or a warm butter croissant complements its delicate sweetness.
Customization Tip: Try it iced for a refreshing afternoon treat that still feels festive.
4. Chestnut Praline Latte — The Cozy Winter Classic
Warm, nutty, and subtly spiced, the Chestnut Praline Latte is like sitting by the fireplace on a snowy evening. With roasted chestnut syrup, praline crumbs, and a smooth espresso base, it’s earthy and comforting without being overly sweet.
Why It’s #4:
Its balance of flavors and gentle nuttiness make it a timeless holiday favorite that appeals to mature palates.
Best Pairing: Enjoy with a Starbucks coffee cake or ginger loaf for a nostalgic winter treat.
Customization Tip: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
5. Toasted White Chocolate Mocha — The Festive Indulgence
This drink combines Starbucks’ signature espresso with toasted white chocolate mocha sauce, whipped cream, and holiday sugar pearls. It’s creamy, smooth, and reminiscent of roasted marshmallows by the fire.
Why It’s #5:
The toasted flavor adds depth and warmth to the sweet white chocolate, making it a decadent holiday indulgence.
Best Pairing: Sip it alongside a slice of Starbucks’ Red Velvet Loaf for double the decadence.
Customization Tip: Add a shot of blonde espresso for a lighter roast balance.
6. Gingerbread Latte — The Spicy Comeback
After disappearing from the menu for a few years, the Gingerbread Latte has returned with a delicious vengeance. Combining classic gingerbread syrup with espresso, steamed milk, and a sprinkle of nutmeg, this drink brings all the nostalgia of holiday baking to your cup.
Why It’s #6:
Its warm spice profile makes it a must-have for traditionalists who crave the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses.
Best Pairing: Perfect with a ginger molasses cookie or a slice of pumpkin bread.
Customization Tip: Swap the milk for oat milk to enhance the spiced notes.
7. Hot Chocolate (Holiday Edition) — The Family Favorite
Not every holiday drink needs espresso to shine. Starbucks’ seasonal Hot Chocolate — made richer during the holidays with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle — remains a comforting favorite for all ages.
Why It’s #7:
It’s simple, nostalgic, and universally loved. For non-coffee drinkers, this is the quintessential cozy cup.
Best Pairing: Enjoy with a chocolate brownie or cake pop for a sweet afternoon break.
Customization Tip: Add peppermint syrup for a festive twist on a childhood classic.
8. Irish Cream Cold Brew — The Chilly Christmas Star
For cold brew fans, the Irish Cream Cold Brew brings holiday spirit in an iced format. It features Starbucks’ smooth cold brew topped with a velvety layer of Irish cream cold foam and cocoa powder dusting.
Why It’s #8:
It’s sophisticated, smooth, and less sweet than most festive drinks — ideal for those who like a bolder coffee flavor.
Best Pairing: A chocolate croissant complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Customization Tip: Add one pump of vanilla syrup for a subtle sweetness boost.
9. Eggnog Latte — The Nostalgic Classic
A drink steeped in tradition, the Eggnog Latte combines rich, spiced eggnog with espresso and steamed milk, topped with a dusting of nutmeg. Though not always available at every location, its fans await its return each season.
Why It’s #9:
It’s a true holiday classic for those who crave nostalgia — creamy, spicy, and celebratory.
Best Pairing: Pair with a slice of coffee cake or a shortbread cookie for a perfect seasonal combo.
Customization Tip: Ask for half milk, half eggnog to lighten it up while keeping that traditional flavor.
10. Holiday Flat White — The Underrated Gem
The Holiday Flat White is made with Starbucks’ ristretto espresso shots and micro-foamed milk, infused with subtle hints of festive sweetness. It’s not flashy, but it’s elegant — perfect for minimalist coffee lovers.
Why It’s #10:
This drink focuses on rich espresso flavor with a smooth, creamy texture — ideal for those who prefer less sugar but still want a festive touch.
Best Pairing: Enjoy it with a cranberry scone or almond biscotti for a balanced treat.
Honorable Mentions
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A caffeine-free delight for peppermint fans.
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Holiday Iced Shaken Espresso: A modern twist for those who love their caffeine chilled.
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White Chocolate Peppermint Cold Brew: A refreshing yet cozy hybrid that captures the holiday spirit in iced form.
How We Ranked These Drinks
Each drink was evaluated based on these factors:
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Flavor Balance: Sweetness, richness, and espresso strength.
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Festive Appeal: Holiday-themed taste and presentation.
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Customizability: Ability to tailor it to your preferences.
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Overall Comfort Factor: That warm, cozy feeling every sip delivers.
Tips for Ordering Starbucks Holiday Drinks
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Try Dairy Alternatives: Almond, oat, and coconut milk can transform flavors in subtle ways.
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Ask for Less Syrup: Many holiday drinks are quite sweet — reducing syrup keeps them balanced.
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Experiment with Temperatures: Some hot drinks shine even more iced (like the Sugar Cookie Latte).
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Add Seasonal Toppings: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate curls can elevate your cup instantly.
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Don’t Skip the Holiday Bakery Items: Pairing drinks with seasonal treats enhances the full Starbucks holiday experience.
Fun Holiday Pairing Ideas
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Peppermint Mocha + Chocolate Cake Pop: A minty-chocolate paradise.
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Caramel Brulée Latte + Gingerbread Loaf: Sweet meets spice in a cozy combo.
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Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte + Snowman Cookie: For a picture-perfect festive snack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Starbucks holiday drink is the sweetest?
The Toasted White Chocolate Mocha and the Caramel Brulée Latte are the sweetest options on the menu, thanks to their rich sauces and toppings.
What’s the healthiest Starbucks holiday drink?
The Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte is the lightest option, made with almond milk and fewer calories per serving.
Is the Gingerbread Latte back in 2025?
Yes! The Gingerbread Latte has returned to select Starbucks locations this year due to popular demand.
Can I get holiday drinks iced?
Absolutely. Many of Starbucks’ holiday drinks, like the Sugar Cookie Latte and the Peppermint Mocha, are available iced or as frappuccinos.
When do Starbucks holiday drinks launch?
Typically, Starbucks releases its holiday lineup in early November and keeps them available through early January.
Are there non-coffee holiday options?
Yes — Hot Chocolate, Peppermint Hot Chocolate, and some cream-based Frappuccinos offer festive flavor without caffeine.
Final Thoughts: Which Starbucks Holiday Drink Rules 2025?
After tasting, testing, and toasting to the holidays, the Peppermint Mocha still reigns supreme as the ultimate Starbucks holiday drink for 2025. Its perfect harmony of espresso, chocolate, and peppermint captures the joy and nostalgia of the season like no other.
However, whether you’re sipping a creamy Caramel Brulée Latte or a dairy-free Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte, every Starbucks holiday drink brings a little magic to your cup.
So this festive season, treat yourself — one red cup at a time.
