Starbucks kicks off the new year with its winter menu, featuring a mix of new offerings and seasonal favorites. Highlighting the lineup is the introduction of the cortado, a Spanish-inspired espresso drink that blends rich coffee flavors with creamy steamed milk.
Key Takeaways:
- Cortado Debuts: Starbucks introduces its first cortado, a Spanish-inspired espresso drink, alongside a sweeter Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado.
- Seasonal Pistachio Beverages Return: Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew are back for a limited time.
- New Vegan Option: The Spicy Falafel Pocket joins the menu as a permanent addition.
- Limited-Time Treats: Vanilla Bean Custard Danish and Valentine Cake Pop make a festive appearance.
- Matcha Update: Starbucks sweetens its matcha powder with classic syrup for customizable sweetness.
What is a Cortado?
The cortado, named after the Spanish word “cortar” meaning “to cut,” blends three ristretto shots of Starbucks Blonde Espresso with a touch of steamed milk, cutting through the intensity of the espresso for a perfectly balanced flavor. Served hot in an 8-ounce short size, the cortado is a new staple in Starbucks’ espresso lineup. Customers can also enjoy the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado, a non-dairy, slightly sweeter variation of this classic drink.
Returning Favorites: Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew
Fans of pistachio drinks are in for a treat as Starbucks brings back the Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew for a limited time.
- Pistachio Latte: Espresso and steamed milk infused with pistachio flavoring, topped with brown-buttery goodness. Available hot, iced, or as a Frappuccino.
- Pistachio Cream Cold Brew: Cold Brew sweetened with vanilla syrup and finished with pistachio cream cold foam and salted brown-buttery sprinkles.
New Menu Addition: Spicy Falafel Pocket
The Spicy Falafel Pocket is a certified vegan, permanent addition to Starbucks’ menu. Featuring smashed falafel, hummus, roasted red bell peppers, pickled onions, and a spicy herb sauce, this item is wrapped in toasted lavash for a savory on-the-go snack.
Limited-Time Sweet Treats
- Vanilla Bean Custard Danish: Layers of sugared Danish dough filled with creamy vanilla bean custard.
- Valentine Cake Pop: A festive vanilla cake treat dipped in red chocolate icing, decorated with a heart design—perfect for a seasonal indulgence.
Matcha Gets a Sweetness Upgrade
Responding to customer feedback, Starbucks has sweetened its matcha powder with classic syrup. This change makes it easier for customers to customize the sweetness of their matcha drinks to suit their taste.
FAQs
Q: What is the cortado, and how does it differ from other espresso drinks?
A: The cortado is a Spanish-inspired espresso drink featuring three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso mixed with steamed milk. It offers a more concentrated flavor compared to lattes and macchiatos.
Q: Are the pistachio drinks available year-round?
A: No, the Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew are seasonal beverages available for a limited time during the winter menu.
Q: Is the Spicy Falafel Pocket vegan?
A: Yes, the Spicy Falafel Pocket is a certified vegan option and is a permanent addition to the menu.
Q: Can I customize the sweetness of my matcha drink?
A: Yes, Starbucks now uses classic syrup to sweeten its matcha powder, allowing customers to adjust the sweetness level to their preference.
Q: Will the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado be available year-round?
A: Starbucks has not specified if the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado is a permanent addition or a seasonal offering.
Final Note
Starbucks’ winter menu blends exciting new offerings with the nostalgia of returning favorites. Don’t miss out on these winter delights while they last!