Starbucks Drinks (© dontree – stock.adobe.com)
If you’re a regular at Starbucks, chances are your local barista knows your favorite drink the moment you walk in the door. It could even be a straightforward cup of black coffee. But there’s no denying that the coffee giant has some pretty popular concoctions that caffeine lovers can’t get enough of. That got us wondering which drinks are the favorites of top reviewers.
To lend a hand you prepare for your next visit to the bar or drive-through, StudyFinds sought out expert reviews of the best Starbucks drinks. This list includes the most recommended drinks from 10 expert reviews. Let us know if you have a favorite we missed in the comments!
Starbucks Best Drinks Consensus According to Experts
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte
For many of us, one of the first signs of fall is the return of Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte. This indulgent drink is a cocktail of sultry flavors like pumpkin, vanilla, and cinnamon, topped with Starbucks’ signature homemade whipped cream.
You might think this drink is too overhyped to deserve the top spot, but experts disagree. All the glowing reviews have to be worth something, not to mention the stern shelf life of PSL. Coffee at three indicates, this drink is so popular that everyone knows what you mean by those three little letters. PSL is a magical concoction of espresso, steamed milk, and a secret pumpkin sauce recipe that creates a sultry, inviting explosion of flavor in your cup.
Tasting table admits that there are often tongue-in-cheek digs at PSL enthusiasts, with terms like “basic.” But they insist that these critics haven’t experienced the real magic. One sip, they say, and those prejudices melt away, replaced by an appreciation for the deliciousness of this fall brew.
Thrillist joins the chorus, reminding us why the PSL has achieved cult status. Sure, it may be a little sweet (but hey, you can always adjust the syrup level!), but that’s part of its charm. The opulent espresso pairs perfectly with a symphony of sultry spices — pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves — to create a comforting, flavorful drink that screams fall. So the next time you hear someone mocking the PSL, remind them: There’s a reason this drink continues to reign supreme as the unofficial mascot of the season.
2. Brown sugar, oat milk, espresso shake
This drink is a relatively novel addition to the Starbucks menu, but it’s made quite the impression. Made with creamy oat milk and the sultry sweetness of brown sugar syrup, this iced drink has become an almost instant classic. As an added bonus, the standard recipe for this drink is 100% vegan. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, a plant-based eater, or just love the taste of oat milk, you won’t have to double-check that this order was made with the right milk.
Forget about struggling to constantly stir your iced coffee – Starbucks’ Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is your fall savior, according to A Taste of Home. This drink is so good, they admit it could become a daily habit, even if your wallet sheds a tear or two with every purchase. But hey, sometimes a little indulgence is worth it!
What exactly is inside? Tasting table dives into the magic behind the perfect blend. Baristas combine ground cinnamon, Starbucks’ signature Blonde espresso, and just the right amount of brown sugar syrup, then shake it all up. The result? A perfectly blended, ready-to-drink iced coffee that eliminates the need for endless swirls with a green straw. They also highlight the nostalgic flavor element of brown sugar—a sensory experience designed to evoke sultry memories of baking cookies while sipping your morning coffee.
3. Pink drink
If coffee isn’t your thing, this pastel-colored drink is about to become your novel best friend. The Pink Drink started out as a fan creation but has grown in popularity enough to earn an official spot on the Starbucks menu. Made with refreshing coconut milk, strawberries, and a strawberry-açaí base, it’s definitely something to try this summer.
Even if you’re a die-hard coffee lover, sometimes it’s nice to have something different. For days when you want to change it up, this Refresher offers a pretty pink alternative. According to Tasting tableThis refreshing drink is a straightforward twist on their classic Strawberry Açaí Refresher – just add creamy coconut milk and a handful of fresh strawberries, and voila! The result? A featherlight, fruity drink packed with flavor. Think of it as a pink Starburst flavor in a cup, perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm day.
Thrillist Reviewers admit it may not be their everyday choice, but they still appreciate the Pink Drink for its refreshing and sweet departure from their usual coffee routine. The bonus of fresh strawberries adds a fun, textural element that elevates the whole experience.
And not only does it taste great. Food Drink Life says this drink is a feast for the eyes (that pretty pink!) and will quench your taste buds’ thirst. If you love fruity, sweet pink drinks, this is your summer soulmate.
4. Caramel Frappuccino
Caramel lovers, rejoice! This iced drink beautifully combines the flavors of coffee and caramel to create a delicious Starbucks classic. Topped with an artful swirl of whipped cream and caramel topping, this drink is ready to be photographed for your Instagram Story.
If you’re looking for a bold coffee flavor with minimal sweetness, stay away from this drink. But if you have a sweet tooth, the Caramel Frappuccino will likely become your instant favorite. According to Let’s eat cakeThis dreamy concoction is a symphony of sweetness – opulent caramel flavor takes center stage, with a subtle hint of coffee permeating the creamy richness. It’s perfect for those who may not be die-hard coffee fans but still appreciate a little caffeine (and a lot of sugar!). Get ready for a sugar rush!
Coffee at three breaks down the drink’s pedigree – it’s a love affair between two Starbucks classics, the Caramel Macchiato and the Frappuccino. While some may find it a tad too sweet, many fans (myself included!) ask for an extra drizzle of caramel. Hey, everyone has their own opinion!
5. Cool Brew with vanilla sweet cream
If you love the taste of coffee but don’t mind it when it’s paired with a hint of sweetness, this is the drink for you. Combining the bold flavors of chilly brew with the creamy sweetness of vanilla sweet cream, you get a sturdy caffeine boost that’s effortless to absorb. It’s the perfect order for a coffee lover who isn’t quite ready to make the leap to black coffee.
If you crave the polished, bold taste of chilly brew but don’t want it to be too overpowering, Starbucks says its vanilla and sweet cream chilly brew is your novel best friend. Delicious. This drink is like a dream team—it has all the satisfying power of a classic chilly brew, but adds a touch of creamy vanilla sweetness to polished it all out. Think of it as a cooler, more approachable cousin to chilly brew.
A Taste of Home echoes that sentiment, praising beverages that don’t overwhelm the taste buds. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cool Brew may sound elegant, but don’t be fooled – it’s a delightful combination of sweet and straightforward.
Thrillist refers to the mesmerizing effect of watching vanilla sweet cream slowly spread over obscure, inky coffee – it’s almost like a mini coffee magic show happening in your cup! So if you’re looking for a chilly brew experience that’s both delicious and visually stimulating, Vanilla Sweet Cream Cool Brew is a must!
Editor’s Choice: Chai Tea Latte
“Yes, Starbucks is first and foremost a coffee shop — but let’s not forget that it also has some decent tea options. The Starbucks Chai Tea Latte is still my go-to drink when I want something other than coffee, something sweet that will pick me up,” says StudyFinds editor-in-chief Steve Fink. “It won’t wake me up like a caffe latte, but it’s definitely a nice afternoon treat!”
