Best 15 Cinnamon Drinks From Starbucks
Cinnamon is a fantastic ingredient for the fall; it’s warm with a pleasing spicy kick that reminds one of curling up by a fire or enjoying watching the leaves change color! If you’re looking for a great drink that reflects those feelings, you’ll want to know about the Best 15 Cinnamon Drinks From Starbucks!
Starbucks carries a Cinnamon Dolce Syrup as well as a cinnamon topping which allow the popular coffee chain to make a variety of Cinnamon-flavored drinks, both caffeinated and de-caffeinated.
In this article, we’ll go over those drink varieties in a list of the Best 15 Cinnamon Drinks from Starbucks!
Which Are the Best 15 Cinnamon Drinks From Starbucks?
If you’re looking for the drinks, both official and unofficial, that incorporate Starbucks’ cinnamon ingredients in the tastiest ways, check out the list below!
- Iced Cinnamon Coffee
- Espresso Macchiato
- Latte Macchiato
- Iced Caramel Macchiato
- Chai Tea
- Spiced Root Beer
- Iced Chai Tea Latte
- Cinnamon Almondmilk Macchiato
- Hot Chai Tea Latte
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Caramel Apple Spice
- Chai Frappuccino
- Cinnamon Dolce Crème
- Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
- Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Let’s go over a bit more about these tasty drinks, including how much cinnamon flavor you’re in for when ordering each, and which ones are on the official menu!
1. Iced Cinnamon Coffee
Starbucks’ Iced Coffee is slightly less-caffeinated than both their Cold Brew and their drip coffee options, but it’s lighter flavor makes any syrup add-ins stand out all the more! The Iced Cinnamon coffee can be ordered a few different ways.
The most common is to order an Iced Coffee with Cinnamon Dolce syrup. If you order a medium or Grande size, your barista will likely include 4 pumps of the syrup, while a Venti or large will get you 5 pumps of that cinnamon goodness! You can always request more or less.
The other way to order this drink will get you less sweetness and is better for coffee-drinkers who don’t like to overpower the flavor of the coffee roast! To order an Iced Cinnamon Coffee this way, simply ask for a dusting of Starbucks’ cinnamon powder on top. With either option, you can decide to incorporate cream.
2. Espresso Macchiato
Starbucks’ Espresso Macchiato is made by first pouring a small amount ot milk (either steamed or chilled) into a cup and then allowing Starbucks’ signature espresso to brew directly over top of the milk. It creates a layered flavor experience, while the milk cuts a little of the bitterness of the coffee.
The only cinnamon in this beverage is found in the subtle notes of the espresso roast itself, along with some fruity flavors. If your palette isn’t experiencing enough cinnamon, you can always request a pump or two of the Cinnamon Dolce syrup or the cinnamon powder!
3. Latte Macchiato
A Latte Macchiato is very similar to the above drink, the Espresso Macchiato! The only difference is that while the Espresso Macchiato is made with more espresso than milk, the Latte Macchiato is the opposite.
Though both drinks incorporate just a hint of cinnamon in the subtle flavors of the espresso roast, it is even more subtle in this milkier version of the drink!
4. Iced Caramel Macchiato
Though “cinnamon” isn’t included in the name, an Iced Caramel Macchiato is one of Starbucks’ most popular and longest-standing beverages with hints of cinnamon flavoring. A layered beverage including vanilla, caramel drizzle, milk, and espresso, the Caramel Macchiato has the added benefit of being offered during all seasons, not just the fall!
Much like the Espresso Macchiato and Latte Macchiato, the notes of cinnamon in this drink are subtle. They can be brought out by requesting either an extra shot of espresso, or by requesting more caramel drizzle for those who prefer sweetness!
5. Chai Tea
Starbucks’ most popular Chai offering is the Chai Tea Latte. However, did you know that they also serve a traditional tea-leaf brew of Chai Tea? Simply request a Hot Chai Tea, and make sure the barista understands that it is the Hot Tea, not the Latte version of the drink.
The Hot Brewed Chai Tea is less sweet and rich than the Latte variant, but it has much sharper notes of that cinnamon flavor we all love!
6. Spiced Root Beer
Starbucks once offered a line of carbonated drinks called “Fizzio” starting in 2014. This included a sweet soda called “Spiced Root Beer,” which had fine hints of cinnamon. Unfortunately, Spiced Root Beer and it’s fellow Fizzio items, the Golden Ginger Ale and Lemon Ale, were discontinued in 2016 due to a lack of popularity.
Though you can’t get the Spiced Root Beer at Starbucks any more, you can ask for a few pumps of the Cinnamon Dolce syrup on the side of your order.
Once you’ve purchased this amount of syrup and you own it, you’re welcome to add that special Starbucks component to any bottle of root beer you purchase from a different location. It may not be exactly like the Spiced Root Beer, but it can be an acceptable substitute!
7. Iced Chai Tea Latte
The iced version of the Chai Tea Latte, this drink mixes the cinnamon-flavored Tazo Chai mixture with the milk of your choosing. To brink out the most cinnamon in every sip, consider choosing the dairy-free Soy or Almondmilk alternatives to this nice, chilled beverage!
8. Cinnamon Almondmilk Macchiato
The Cinnamon Almondmilk Macchiato is one of Starbucks’ fancier and newer drinks. It involves the classic Cinnamon Dolce syrup Starbucks has had for many years, and is layered like the other Macchiato drinks.
The almondmilk in the beverage draws attention to the spice of the cinnamon-flavored syrup, though sweet-lovers may want to ask for extra pumps of the syrup since the beverage is typically pretty bitter at first sip.
Otherwise, you’re welcome to ask for the ingredients to be stirred up before your barista passes it to you.
9. Hot Chai Tea Latte
The most well-known of the chai offerings at Starbucks, the classic Chai Tea Latte is made with steamed milk, that same cinnamon-flavored Tazo Chai Tea mixture, and steamed milk. For those preparing to brave the cooler weather of autumn or winter, the Hot Chai Tea is one of the best, cozy cinnamon drinks Starbucks offers!
10. Pumpkin Spice Latte
It’s no secret at all that one of Starbucks’ most famous drinks is the Pumpkin Spice Latte! Offered exclusively during the fall months, the Pumpkin Spice Latte generates a lot of excitement every time it returns for the holiday season.
Perhaps one of the reasons customers flock to Starbucks during Pumpkin Spice season is because the special, Starbucks-invented Pumpkin Spice sauce contains hints of cinnamon flavoring! If you’d like even more of that component in every sip, simply request a little dusting of cinnamon powder atop your drink!
11. Caramel Apple Spice
The Caramel Apple Spice is Starbucks’ delightful answer to traditionally-made hot apple cider. It contains very little dairy in the form of a whipped cream topping, no caffeine, and a pleasing drizzle of sweet caramel on top of apple juice.
The cinnamon flavors come not only from Starbucks’ choice of apple juice, but from their Cinnamon Dolce syrup at the bottom of the drink!
12. Chai Frappuccino
A Chai Frappuccino may not be the most popular Chai beverage at Starbucks, but it is certainly tasty! Blended up like a fall-flavored slushy, the Chai Frappuccino contains no coffee and is pleasingly sweet. Because it uses that same beloved Tazo Chai mixture, the Chai Frappucino has hints of cinnamon in every drink.
13. Cinnamon Dolce Crème
If you love the cinnamon flavoring of Starbucks’ Cinnamon Dolce Latte, but you’re not a big coffee fan, the Cinnamon Dolce Crème is a great option. It’s lack of caffeine is also a big selling point for offering it to your kids!
Think of hot, cinnamon-flavored ice cream and you’ve nearly understood the dreamy delight that is the Cinnamon Dolce Crème! Sometimes called a Cinnamon Dolce steamer, the drink is made with steamed milk, Cinnamon Dolce syrup and topping, and a dollop of whipped cream.
14. Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
The Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte is a classic, combining a little more espresso than the hot variant with a pleasing chill. This way, even if you don’t live in a climate that gets chilly in the autumn or winter, you can still feel that brisk feeling cinnamon flavors offer!
15. Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Last but certainly not least is Starbucks’ classic Cinnamon Dolce Latte, in it’s pure, hot form. The Cinnamon Dolce Syrup is mixed in with robust espresso and hot milk. Don’t forget the Cinnamon Dolce topping dusting the whipped cream!
How Cinnamon in Coffee Offers Benefits
Cinnamon offers a pleasing spice to any cup of coffee or even coffee-related beverages. It is made with an impactful, clove-like flavor that has some of the same appeal as spicy foods, but none of the pain! Instead, your palette is infused with a warm, almost-sweet sensation.
Cinnamon is a known anti-oxidant, which is important when shopping at a processed-food retailer like Starbucks. It’s health benefits include skin health amplification, eye strength improvements, and even kidney support.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Starbucks is generous with their cinnamon drink components, ranging from subtle notes in their Iced Coffee and Chai Teas to not-so-subtle, but sweet delights like their Cinnamon Dolce Syrup. If you’re looking for a cozy beverage that offers the antioxidant and flavor benefits cinnamon has to offer, Starbucks is a great place to get it from!
10 Starbucks Drinks that are Cheap but Delicious
Listed below are the top 10 Starbucks Drinks that are considered cheap and delicious:
1. Iced Tea
2. Espresso Macchiato
3. Espresso
4. Cold Brew
5. Hot Chocolate
6. Caffe Americano
7. Steamed Milk
8. Hot Brewed Coffee
9. Caffè Misto
10. Espresso con Panna
Continue reading to learn more about these drinks, including what they're made of, as well as how much you can expect them to cost, and more.
1. Iced Tea
First on our menu of cheap and delicious Starbucks drinks, is the delightful iced tea from Starbucks. This traditional iced tea not only carries the perfect amount of sweetness but also won't break the bank.
On the other hand, if you're looking for something a little more exotic, why not try the iced green tea or even the Passion Tango?
Take note, however, that all Starbucks iced teas are initially unsweetened, however, you may add additional liquid cane sugar at no extra cost.
Overall, nothing at Starbucks is better to drink than iced tea if you want to cool off. After all, this drink is also one of the inexpensive, variegated Starbucks beverages.
Fortunately, the large cup of this iced tea is only expected to cost approximately $2.95 depending on the location you visit. Take note, however, that these prices can change. Nonetheless, due to the cheap price, you may enjoy it without feeling bad about purchasing beverages from Starbucks.
2. Espresso Macchiato
Two shots of espresso marked with a dollop of froth make up a Starbucks Espresso Macchiato. Espresso shots can, however, also be combined with heated milk, froth, and a Starbucks Latte Macchiato.
The point of these drinks is to help curb the bitterness of an expresso shot. This means that the Espresso Macchiato is most likely the ideal beverage for you if you often find yourself avoiding expresso shots due to this bitter taste factor.
At Starbucks, customers may also select from a range of both pricing and sizes when ordering an espresso macchiato. For instance, in addition to the Solo Espresso Macchiato, you may also order Doppio, Triple, and Quad Espresso Macchiatos.
Overall, a drink of this type is generally expected to cost between $2.55 and $3.35. It's important to keep in mind, though, that these costs can, however, fluctuate.
3. Espresso
The quantity of caffeine in a double shot of espresso is equivalent to that in most grande beverages, although it costs just around 60% as much. This price point makes it one of the least expensive Starbucks beverages to date.
Take note that Starbucks also offers three types of espresso. These include dark trademark roast, blonde roast, and decaf.
Overall, there are also several different espresso beverage alternatives available. For example, customers can get single, Doppio, Triple Espresso, or Quad Espresso shots when ordering at any local Starbucks location.
Depending on the expresso shot you select, take note that these too have a variety of costs. For instance, a solo expresso shot can cost anywhere from about $2.45. On the other hand, a quad espresso is a touch more expensive with a price point of $3.45.
4. Cold Brew
Starbucks cold brew coffee is, overall, one of the company's strongest beverages. This cold brew is set apart from other beverages similar in taste due to the fact that it is known to be slowly steeped in cold water for 20 hours, giving it a uniquely smooth taste.
Traditionally, Starbucks Cold Brew is served without sugar to emphasize the coffee's sweet, creamy taste. Take note, however, that Nitrogen gas can also be added to cold-brewed coffee to create the nitro cold brew. This process gives the cold brew a velvety, creamy texture.
It's also important to note that Iced coffee is brewed differently from cold brew and nitro cold brew. Iced coffee is created in a matter of minutes using ground coffee and hot water rather than cold. This makes cold brew a much more sophisticated caffeinated beverage when compared to ice coffee.
Overall, all you need is approximately $3.95 to purchase a Starbucks grande cold brew. So, don't forget to choose this beverage from the menu if you want something cool and energizing.
5. Hot Chocolate
Starbucks is also known to serve hot chocolate. In order to create this cup of chocolaty goodness, Starbucks blends their thick, frothy steaming milk with their creamy mocha sauce. Overall, this is a very scrumptious dessert beverage.
The drink is also decorated and topped with whipped cream and mocha drizzle.
In the winter, if you're looking for something sweeter than coffee, why not give Starbucks' Hot Chocolate a whirl? After all the price of one of these beverages is not much different from other coffees.
For example, given that the grande cup of Hot Chocolate costs only $3.75, it is one of the most affordable Starbucks beverages. In addition, you get to have a cup of delicious chocolate that will keep you warm on a chilly winter day.
6. Caffe Americano
Espresso (dark, blonde, or decaf) shots are topped with hot water to make an Americano. However, it is important to note that a grande Americano at Starbucks, in contrast to the majority of other grande beverages, has three shots of espresso. This makes this beverage not only flavorful but also robust.
Those who typically drink Caffe Americanos are those who are considered outgoing and social. This means that if you're looking for a beverage to boost your energy in the morning, this is the perfect cup for you.
After all, this coffee is also considered one of Starbucks' cheaper drinks, pricing in at only $3.45 for a grande cup.
7. Steamed Milk
Steamed milk is made by gently introducing steam from an espresso machine's steam wand to milk until the lipids in the milk dissolve and expand to form small microbubbles or microfoam. The outcome is silky smooth milk with a smoothness that tastes good both on its own, as well as with any beverage made with espresso.
As a result, if you're looking for a simple, cheap Starbucks drink, look no further than a grande cup of Steamed Milk.
A Starbucks Milk Steamer is just 2% milk that has been lightly heated with some froth. One can also order the kids' size of this parent favourite. Take note, that when the child option is ordered, the workers also promise to only warm the milk to 130°F for less than the price of a short.
Grande Steamed Milk prices start at approximately $2.65. Overall, you can also choose the type of milk you want to be steamed, but for no additional cost, go with non-fat, 2%, or whole.
8. Hot Brewed Coffee
A scorching hot cup of drip coffee is among the least overall expensive Starbucks beverages. For example, a Grande hot brewed coffee typically costs $2.75 at most Starbucks locations.
Customers may also choose from a variety of Starbucks-made flavours when ordering hot brewed coffee. For example, some of the more common drip coffee flavours include Pike Place medium roast, dark, blonde, and decaf, all of which are freshly brewed every 30 minutes.
This means that at Starbucks, you may sip a hot cup of coffee without going over your budget. During your visit, Reward members are also entitled to a complimentary coffee refill. So, if you are a member, it will be even less expensive for you.
9. Caffè Misto
A Caffè Misto is a drink that is made up of one part hot brewed coffee and one part steamed milk. When ordered at Starbucks, the default milk used in this drink is 2%, however, you may also get free full or non-dairy milk if you choose.
Many customers often confuse these drinks with simple lattes. However, it is important to note that Caffè Misto utilizes brewed coffee, while a latte uses espresso, despite the fact that they both appear to be the same.
This means that a Caffè Misto beverage is simpler to brew than a latte, often making it the cheaper option between the two drinks. For example, customers can purchase a grande cup of this beverage for approximately $3.45, at any local Starbucks location.
10. Espresso con Panna
If you want a beverage that harmonizes the robust flavour of espresso with the sweetness of whipped cream, espresso con Panna is a delectable choice. In fact, it tastes especially good as an after-dinner treat since it satisfies your need for caffeine while having the decadent texture and sweetness of a dessert.
This wonderful little beverage, made with espresso and whipped cream flavoured with vanilla, overall, tastes great and is inexpensive.
For example, customers can purchase a cup of Espresso con Panna at any local Starbucks. Price points of these drinks also start relatively low, at $2.75.
Take note, however, that if you choose to order this beverage, Espresso con Panna is best enjoyed after the whipped cream has been incorporated into the coffee. This means you should enjoy the coffee by combining whipped cream with espresso.
17 Best Starbucks Cold Foam Drinks
What’s better than the smooth creaminess of Starbucks’ Cold Brew drinks? A Starbucks Cold Brew drink with a topping of delicious foam! However, Starbucks offers so many varieties of flavor, you could wonder: what are the 17 Best Starbucks Cold Foam Drinks?
Starbucks’ Cold Foam, introduced in 2018, is made with a base of Vanilla Sweet Cream, which is formed with Heavy Whipping Cream and vanilla and whipped into a semi-solid foam. Any of Starbucks’ 16 syrup flavors can be added to this foam to create delicious Cold Foam Cold Brew recipes, both official and invented by customers.
In this article we’ll cover some of Starbucks’ most popular Cold Foam recipes, not just for Cold Brew, but for some of their more classic favorites!
The Top 17 Best Starbucks Cold Foam Drinks
Starbucks has several Cold Brew recipes featuring a variety of Cold Foam toppings, each with a unique flavor. However, some of the best Cold Foam options aren’t on Starbucks’ menu, but were created by customers who couldn’t get enough of that tasty foam! The best Cold Foam recipes are listed below:
- Salted Caramel Cold Foam CB
- Violet Drink with CF
- Iced Americano with Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam
- Honey Almondmilk Nitro Cold Brew
- Cold Brew with Cascara Cold Foam
- Iced White Chocolate Mocha
- Dragon Drink with Cold Foam
- Iced Mocha with Raspberry Cold Foam
- Iced Caffe Mocha
- Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
- Iced Matcha Tea Latte with Cold Foam
- Iced London Fog Tea Latte with Cold Foam
- Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew
- Pink Drink with Cold Foam
- Nitro Cold Brew with Cascara Cold Foam
- Salted Caramel Nitro Cold Brew
- Iced Starbucks Blonde Cappuccino with Cold Foam
Let’s get started on looking more closely at each of these delicious recipies, how to order them, and what they include!
1. Salted Caramel Cold Foam CB
The Cold Brew with Salted Caramel foam is Starbucks’ second-ever official Cold Foam recipe, and it has stood the test of time since being introduced as a seasonal beverage! Topping Starbucks’ year-round, highly-caffeinated Cold Brew, the Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew is sweet but delicious.
The caramel content is actually not in the main body of the drink, but is found exclusively in the foam, along with Starbucks’ special sea salt mixture. The only sweetness in the Cold Brew is the vanilla flavoring pumped into the bottom of the cup. The drink is not meant to be stirred up, but enjoyed by sipping the robust Cold Brew through the layer of sweet, salty foam!
2. Violet Drink with CF
The Violet Drink is an official placeholder on the Starbucks menu. However, adding Cold Foam to make a killer recipe was the customers’ idea! The Violet Drink is made by combining Starbucks’ Very Berry Refresher recipe with a splash or two of coconut milk.
This means that not only does the Violet Drink contain blackberries, Green Tea, and coconut milk, but an ice cream-like topping to sip it through! It looks lovely, as well, colored brightly purple.
It is important to note that the Violet Drink’s original recipe is dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk; adding Cold Foam makes it compromised and unsafe to drink for those with a dairy allergy.
3. Iced Americano with Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam
The Iced Americano features Starbucks’ regular Espresso (though the smoother and more-caffeinated blonde variant can be requested!) over a little ice water and chilled for warm days. Typically, the drink is not very sweet on it’s own and is meant for those who like a strong, bitter coffee flavor.
However, the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam transforms this drink into a sweeter, milkier delight that tastes something like dessert!
4. Honey Almondmilk Nitro Cold Brew with Cold Foam
The Honey Almondmilk Nitro Cold Brew typically doesn’t get any Cold Foam in it’s classic form. Instead, all of the sweetness of the drink comes from the Honey Blend Syrup on the bottom, the natural sweeter notes in the Cold Brew roast, and the light sweetness of the almondmilk.
However, adding Cold Foam to this beverage can bring the sweetness to the forefront of your palette. It is especially helpful for those who want the caffeine of the Nitro Cold Brew, but need a little something to disguise the coffee flavor.
It is, again, important to note that before adding Cold Foam this drink is dairy-free, but after adding Cold Foam it is an allergen to those who are lactose intolerant.
5. Cold Brew with Cascara Cold Foam
Like the Nitro Cold Brew, a regular Cold Brew can be given a much more mild and treat-like flavor with Cold Foam on top. However, a reason to order this instead of the Nitro variant is that a Nitro can only be ordered as a Tall (small) or a Grande (medium,) while a regular Cold Brew comes in the largest sizes, too!
The Cascara element of Starbucks coffee is no longer available, though it once made a great addition to Cold Brew. However, you can still achieve some of the same flavor by asking for the Cold Foam to be made with an affogato blonde shot of espresso. This will up your caffeine content, but may give you some of that long-lost cascara flavoring!
6. Chilled White Mocha With Cold Foam
The Iced White Chocolate Mocha is a long-standing official recipe of Starbucks. Offering the sweeter White Chocolate sauce, it otherwise follows the same recipe as the regular Mocha, incorporating milk, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream. The iced version is chilled.
Rather than whipped cream, consider adding even more rich sugary flavoring by topping the beverage with Cold Foam!
7. Dragon Drink with Cold Foam
Much like the Violet Drink, this beverage starts out by adding Coconut Milk to Satrbucks’ already-popular Mango Dragonfruit Refresher recipe. The Mango Dragonfruit is made with Mango tea base, dragonfruit pieces, and ice all shaken together until fully incorporated and a bright purple in color.
This drink is already sweet enough on it’s own, but by adding coconut milk and Cold Foam, it turns into something like fruit-flavored ice cream! This is, however, another dairy-free drink made dairy-filled by the Cold Foam element.
8. Iced Mocha with Raspberry Cold Foam
Perhaps one of the most genius recipes on this list is the Iced Mocha with Raspberry Cold Foam. Typically, this choice is much like a regular, chilled chocolate milk with espresso and whipped cream added in. However, by adding a pump or two of raspberry to vanilla sweet cream foam creates something that tastes like chocolate-covered fruit!
9. Iced Caffe Mocha with Cold Foam
Just like the White Chocolate Mocha, but with a hint more bitterness, the Iced Mocha with vanilla foam is a delicious choice. It combines dark but sweet chocolate with espresso and ice. If you’re not the biggest fan of raspberry or fruit flavors accompanying chocolate, simply ask for regular vanilla Cold Foam!
10. Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte with Cold Foam
The Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte is beloved for it’s hints of cinnamon and incredible-tasting dolce topping! The only thing that can make this espresso beverage better is the Cold Foam replacing the whipped cream.
11. Iced Matcha Tea Latte with Cold Foam
The Matcha Tea Latte is popularly ordered iced. Matcha is a green tea powder tasting something like sweet grass with multiple health benefits. Because it is a little on the strong and bitter side, customers are given the option to order the tea with sweetener.
Taking sweetness to the next level involves topping the beverage with CF, perfectly balancing the bitter taste with vanilla sugar! It is important to note that this beverage has very little caffeine.
12. Iced London Fog Tea Latte with Cold Foam
This drink is rarely ordered, so depending on the skill level and experience of your barista, you may need to be careful how you order it. The London Fog is created by first allowing English Breakfast Tea to steep in a hot cup for around 5 minutes, then pouring that over chilled 2% milk and adding ice and vanilla syrup.
The resulting milky tea is refreshing but manages to keep a warm, cozy flavor! It is only made better by the added notes of vanilla in a Cold Foam topping.
13. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam Nitro Cold Brew
Be sure to add the phrase “Cold Foam” when ordering this beverage, or else you might simply get the Nitro Cold Brew with a pale splash of pure-liquid vanilla sweet cream. It may taste similar, but you don’t want to miss out on sipping Nitro Cold Brew through a nice, thick foam!
14. Pink Drink with Cold Foam
The last up in terms of Refreshers made with Cold Foam is the super-popular Pink Drink! A traditional Pink Drink is crafted by shaking Starbucks’ Strawberry Acai Tea and dried strawberries up with Coconut Milk. However, ordering it with Cold Foam adds a strawberry-ice cream-like element to the drink, though it does eliminate it as a dairy-free option.
15. Nitro Cold Brew with Cascara Cold Foam
As stated above, the Cascara part of the Cold Foam is sadly no longer available at Starbucks. However, just like wth the Cascara Cold Foam Cold Brew, a similar kick and flavor can be achieved by ordering the smooth Nitro Cold Brew with Cold Foam topped with a shot of Blonde espresso.
As before, though, watch out; you’re ordering a highly caffeinated, highly sweet beverage that is not for the faint of heart, however delicious it may be!
16. Salted Caramel Nitro Cold Brew
What’s better than the classic Salted Caramel Cold Brew? A Salted Caramel Nitro Cold Brew! The Nitro Cold brew is usually not served with any ice to amplify the beauty of watching nitrogen-infused foam cascade up and down the inside of the cup. Salted Caramel Cold Foam not only adds to this, but tastes incredible when combined with the smooth flavor!
17. Iced Starbucks Blonde Cappuccino with Cold Foam
It may seem odd to order a Cappuccino iced, since Cappuccino’s are marked by foamy, hot milk. However, Starbucks has found a way to foam their chilled milk, as well! Add to this the highly-caffeinated Blonde version of their espresso and the sweet, ice-cream-like component of their Cold Foam and you have a delicious drink sort of like a Coffee Milkshake.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Starbucks’ Cold Foam, which is made with high amounts of vanilla and heavy whipping cream, adds a thick, fluffy topping much like ice cream to any of their cold drinks.
Some of these may already be sweet, such as the Iced Mocha, and some of them, like the Americano, may need their bitterness cut by Cold Foam. No matter what option you choose, Starbucks’ Cold Foam is a great ingredient to add to Starbucks’ wide variety of drinks!
10 Most Caffeinated Starbucks Drinks
Everyone loves achieving that much-needed caffeine buzz, and few places are more convenient for it than the worldwide chain, Starbucks! However, if you’re as passionate about coffee as I am, you may find yourself wondering: which is the most caffeinated Starbucks drink?
The most caffeinated Starbucks drink is a hot Blonde Roast, usually a Veranda blend, which has 475 milligrams of caffeine. The runner-up is a hot Pike Place roast at 410 milligrams, followed by Nitro Cold Brew. The Nitro ups the 360 milligrams of caffeine that a normal Cold Brew has by increasing the coffee-to-water ratio in the drink.
There’s more to Starbucks’ most caffeinated beverages than coffee and cold brew, though! In this article, we’ll not only provide you with a little information on how caffeine works but a list of the Top 10 Most Caffeinated Starbucks Drinks!
Top 10 Most Caffeinated Starbucks Drinks
The most caffeinated drinks in Starbucks are measured by how many milligrams of coffee the beverage has. This list won’t measure each beverage by the strength of flavor, but by how much of a caffeine buzz your body can get by drinking each! The list is found below:
- Venti Veranda Roast
- Nitro Cold Brew
- Regular Starbucks Cold Brew
- Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso
- Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
- Café Americano
- Quad Espresso
- Starbucks Iced Coffee
- Café Mocha
- Caramel Macchiato
Let’s take a closer look at each of the drinks on this list and what helps them pack such a caffeinated punch!
1. Venti Veranda Roast
With all of the highly-advertised drink recipes and sometimes complex names, it can be startling to learn that the most caffeinated beverage Starbucks serves is actually just plain drip coffee!
Though espresso technically has more milligrams of caffeine per ounce when compared to regular coffee, there simply aren’t very many ounces of espresso in any Starbucks recipe. By contrast, a venti, hot Starbucks coffee is twenty-six ounces. At around 16 milligrams of caffeine in every ounce, a Venti Blonde roast from Starbucks can have up to 475 milligrams altogether!
You may be wondering: why blonde, in particular? A blonde coffee roast like Starbucks’ Veranda recipe may have fewer oxidants and less of a “coffee” flavor than a regular roast, but it is more caffeinated.
In fact, blonde coffee beans roasted at Starbucks, as well as blonde espresso beans, are roasted at slightly cooler temperatures than regular beans. In addition, they aren’t roasted for quite as long. All of this combines to make blonde coffee like the Veranda Roast more caffeinated by around 65 milligrams!
Pike Place Roast
If you find yourself missing the less-smooth, more prominently flavored regular coffee when drinking Veranda, you can choose to drink Pike Place, instead. The Pike is Starbucks’ original, time-tested coffee brew, and it is only slightly less caffeinated than the Blonde.
At 410 milligrams of caffeine, the classic Pike Place is a great, simple coffee roast to try without losing the buzz of energy! If either Veranda or Pike turns out to be too strong in bitterness for you, don’t worry: Starbucks offers a variety of flavors, from Vanilla to Cinnamon Dolce, to sweeten the coffee with! Don’t forget cream, which can take the edge off of the flavor.
2. Nitro Cold Brew
Second on our list is technically the Nitro Cold Brew! The reason it makes 2nd place on a technicality lies in Starbucks’ “Grande-only” size policy.
You see, Starbucks’ Cold Brew recipe includes a whopping 360 milligrams of caffeine, but only when it is ordered in the large or “Venti” size. The Nitro recipe, which adds nitrogen gas to the beverage recipe, cannot be sold in a Venti size. So instead of getting a 26-ounce Venti of the caffeinated liquid, customers are limited to enjoying a 16-ounce Grande of the Nitro.
Still, if 16 ounces of the regular Cold Brew were compared with 16 ounces of the Nitro version, it is the nitrogen-infused drink that would have the most caffeine! The reason for this difference? To answer simply: one gets more ice than the other!
A Nitro Cold Brew from Starbucks is designed to be smooth and dark in flavor. The nitrogen gas brings that flavor out more prominently, and turns the already-smooth Cold Brew into an aerated, cascading hit! To preserve the cool-looking way the aerated foam at the top of the drink “cascades” down, Starbucks baristas do not include any ice in the beverage.
This means that although both Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew are made from the same caffeine base, the Grande Nitro will always have more caffeine than a Grande recipe of regular Cold Brew.
Altogether, Nitro Cold Brew has 280 milligrams of caffeine when ordered in it’s natural, Grande size.
3. Regular Starbucks Cold Brew
Speaking of the regular Starbucks Cold Brew, it’s because of the size variance alone that it came in third place under Nitro Cold Brew as far as caffeine content goes! When ordered in it’s largest size, the 26-ounce Venti, the Starbucks Cold Brew has 360 milligrams of caffeine.
One of the advantages to drinking Cold Brew instead of Iced Coffee, besides the higher amount of caffeine, is the flavor. If you’re not a fan of the bitterness most coffee drinks have to offer, the Cold Brew might be for you! Noted for it’s “smooth” flavor, Cold Brew from Starbucks usually has fruity notes and can be augmented by vanilla or popular flavored foam toppings!
4. Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso
Finally, Espresso makes an appearance on our list of Caffeinated Drinks! As stated above, the reason espresso is not more caffeinated than regular coffee or even cold brew lies in the size of the beverage. Simply put, espresso just isn’t consumed in large quantities!
A typical Starbucks drink, like the Café Lattes and Café Mochas, only get 3 shots of Starbucks espresso; and only if ordered in the largest sizes! This only takes up around 3 fluid ounces of the 26-ounce beverage.
The caffeine levels can be increased by switching to Blonde Espresso, which is more caffeinated, but the fact is, there just isn’t much espresso content in any of Starbucks’ drinks. None, that is, except the Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso!
The Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso is not only a complicated drink to say, but a complicated drink to make, too.
Instead of the common 3 shots of espresso in other Starbucks crafted beverages, the Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso gets 4 when ordered as a Venti! Not only that, but these shots are the blonde variety. This means that the Brown Sugar drink gets as much as 360 milligrams of caffeine, altogether!
5. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Though far removed from it’s other Cold Brew brothers at 5th place on the list, the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew is still a highly caffeinated, sweet beverage in the Starbucks lineup!
When ordered in a Venti size, the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew is made up of four pumps of Vanilla syrup, Starbucks Cold Brew, and topped with the sugary Vanilla Sweet Cream mixture.
It tastes very similar to pouring nice, smooth Cold Brew over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, without losing the benefits of 320 milligrams of caffeine when ordered in a Venti!
6. Café Americano
The Café Americano is not for the faint of heart, and is often offered by Starbucks baristas as a more robustly-flavored alternative to regular coffee. Simple to make, the Café Americano is mostly water with several espresso shots added to it.
In the largest size, which is technically the Venti iced version, a Café Americano has 4 shots of regular espresso and contains around 300 milligrams of caffeine. Just like regular coffee, the sharp tang of the espresso can be dulled or added to by one of Starbucks’ sweet syrups or cream.
7. Quad Espresso
If you are looking to have all the robustness of espresso flavor and caffeine with none of the water, ice, or milk products cutting it, order a Quad espresso! This is the fanciest way to say 4 shots of Espresso, poured directly into a Starbucks cup with no additional ingredients.
This amounts to 300 milligrams of caffeine, just like a Venti Americano, so all you’re really paying for is the purity of the espresso taste!
8. Starbucks Iced Coffee
Starbucks Iced Coffee is very similar in appearance, structure, and size options to Starbucks Cold Brew, with two notable exceptions. These are caffeine content and flavor! Starbucks Iced Coffee only has 280 milligrams of caffeine, and only that much if ordered in the whopping 30-ounce Trenta size!
The caffeine is usually diluted by the ice component of the drink, and is not as smooth as Cold Brew in taste.
9. Café Mocha
The Café Mocha is an incredibly popular drink among Starbucks customers, though it is not one of the more caffeinated on this list. If selected in the largest size, an Iced Venti, a Café Mocha receives 3 shots of regular Espresso, making it a 265ml-of-caffeine beverage. If, on the other hand, you prefer it hot, the largest Mocha will only receive 2 shots of regular espresso.
A Café Mocha from Starbucks is very similar to hot chocolate, being composed of chocolate sauce and milk with the added features of espresso and whipped cream. Sweet, but cozy, the Iced Mocha is a decadent choice!
10. Caramel Macchiato
Speaking of decadent, the last drink on our list is the famous Caramel Macchiato. A favorite among any Starbucks regular, the Venti Iced Caramel Macchiato is the most caffeinated way to order this beverage, coming in at 225 milligrams of caffeine!
This drink is famous for it’s pretty appearance. Instead of adding espresso shots at the bottom of the recipe, a Caramel Macchiato is what’s known as a “layered” drink. It involves vanilla syrup on the bottom, milk, and finally, a topping of Espresso and caramel drizzle that sit and trickle down from the highest point of the drink.
If you find yourself wishing this drink were less nice to look at but a little sweeter at first-sip, request to have it made “upside down.” This is a cool way of telling the Starbucks Baristas that you prefer the ingredients of the drink mixed together instead of layered!
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the most caffeinated Starbucks Drinks are actually plain old coffee, with Blond Roasts being more caffeinated than regular roasts. Closely following these are Starbucks’ Cold Brew beverages. To get the most caffeine in any Starbucks drink, order the largest size of your favorite recipe and remember that iced drinks usually get more espresso than hot ones!
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte - The Differences Explained!
In a world as busy as ours, coffee and other caffeinated drinks are a must. Plus, they’re delicious!
At coffee shops around the world, some of the most commonly ordered drinks are iced coffee and iced lattes, but how different are these drinks really? They might be more distinct than you think!
In this article, we’ll discuss iced coffee vs. iced lattes, how they differ from one another, their ingredients, caffeine content, and so much more. Read on to discover everything you’ve ever needed to know about the differences between iced coffee and iced lattes.
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte
Even though they might look similar once they’re in a cup, iced coffee and iced lattes aren’t actually the same drink. Although there are similarities like having caffeine, being highly customizable flavor-wise, and being deliciously cold and milky, these two drinks aren’t interchangeable!
What Is an Iced Coffee Made From?
Traditionally, iced coffee is made from hot or cold brewed coffee and ice cubes. It almost always contains a type of milk as well, like regular cows milk, heavy cream, oat milk, almond milk, or any other milk substitute.
Iced coffee can also contain flavor additives, both in dry spice and flavor syrup form.
Ratio of iced coffee: Either 100% black coffee or 90% black coffee with 10% milk or cream.
What Is an Iced Latte Made From?
An iced latte is made from espresso, ice, and milk or cream of some sort. Like iced coffee, milk substitutes work just as well as regular milk.
Iced lattes can’t be served black; otherwise, it would just be a shot of espresso over ice. Flavor additives also go nicely with iced lattes.
Ratio of iced latte: 3 parts milk to 1 part espresso.
The Differences Between Iced Coffee and Iced Latte
The differences in iced coffee and iced lattes are all in the ingredients; iced coffees use hot or cold brewed coffee and iced lattes use espresso as the coffee element.
While the espresso in the iced latte is stronger on its own, it is much more diluted by milk than the brewed coffee of an iced coffee. This means an iced coffee is going to have a stronger coffee flavor than an iced latte.
Which Is Healthier: Iced Coffee or Iced Latte?
Figuring out whether iced coffees or iced lattes are healthier really depends on how you prefer to drink them. A black iced coffee with no milk is going to be nearly zero calories, but the calorie count goes up as soon as you add milk or flavorings.
The same holds true for iced lattes, but because iced lattes contain more milk than iced coffees, they naturally have a higher caloric count than black iced coffee.
Calculating the calorie count of any coffee can get confusing when additives are put into the mix, but our simple charts below can help.
If you’re going strictly by calorie count, then an iced coffee is the healthier of the 2 choices.
Iced Coffee Calories
Black iced coffee has 1 calorie per serving, but this changes when you add things like milk or sweetener.
| Calories of Iced Coffee With Milks | |
| Skim Milk + Black Iced Coffee | 15 calories |
| 2% Milk + Black Iced Coffee | 26 calories |
| Full Fat Milk + Black Iced Coffee | 30 calories |
| Calories of Iced Coffees With Sweeteners | |
| Iced Coffee + Sugar | 16 calories per tsp of sugar |
| Iced Coffee + Flavored Coffee Syrup | 20 calories per pump |
| Iced Coffee + Agave Liquid Sweetener | 21 calories per tsp |
Iced Latte Calories
Iced lattes have higher calorie counts than iced coffees, but they can vary depending on which milks or sweeteners are added. For example, iced lattes with skim milk will have fewer calories than iced lattes with full-fat milk and sugar.
| Calories of Iced Latte With Milks | |
| Skim Milk + Iced Latte | 67 calories |
| 2% Milk + Iced Latte | 120 calories |
| Full Fat Milk + Iced Latte | 136 calories |
| Calories of Iced Latte With Sweeteners | |
| Iced Latte + Sugar | 16 calories per tsp of sugar |
| Iced Latte + Flavored Coffee Syrup | 20 calories per pump |
| Iced Latte + Agave Liquid Sweetener | 21 calories per tsp |
Which Has More Caffeine: Iced Coffee or Iced Latte?
All of the caffeine in iced coffees and iced lattes come from the espresso or coffee within. Espresso as a rule has a higher caffeine content than brewed coffee, but things get a little more complicated when you consider the fact that there is more coffee in an iced coffee than there is espresso in an iced latte.
- Caffeine in 1 shot of espresso: 95mg
- Caffeine in 1 serving of coffee 75mg
McDonalds, Starbucks, And Dunkin’ Donuts Iced Coffees and Iced Coffees
Three of the most popular places to get iced coffees and iced lattes are McDonalds, Starbucks, and Dunkin’ Donuts. These drinks can vary in ratios, ingredients, sweeteners, and calorie content.
Starbucks, being a traditional coffee shop, has no additives, while the other two fast food restaurants might have extra ingredients you wouldn’t expect.
Below, we’ve listed the calories, sugar, and caffeine content of the iced coffees and lattes from these 3 restaurants.
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte at Starbucks
Calories
Iced Coffee: 80 calories
Iced Latte: 130 calories
Sugar
Iced Coffee: 20 grams
Iced Latte: 11 grams
Caffeine
Iced Coffee: 165 milligrams
Iced Latte: 150 milligrams
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte At McDonalds
Calories
Iced Coffee: 180 calories
Iced Latte: 120 calories
Sugar
Iced Coffee: 28 grams
Iced Latte: 9 grams
Caffeine
Iced Coffee: 12 milligrams
Iced Latte: 14 milligrams
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Latte Dunkin’ Donuts
Calories
Iced Coffee: 5 calories
Iced Latte: 50 calories
Sugar
Iced Coffee: 0 grams
Iced Latte: 1 gram
Caffeine
Iced Coffee: 297 milligrams
Iced Latte: 166 milligrams
Iced Coffee vs. Iced Cappuccino vs. Iced Latte vs. Iced Macchiato
- Iced Coffee: Cold coffee, served either black with some sort of milk or cream, and over ice. Optionally, sweetener or flavors can be added.
- Iced Cappuccino: Espresso over ice with some sort of milk or cream and topped with milk foam. Can also have sweeteners or flavors added.
- Iced Latte: Espresso over ice with some kind of milk or cream. Usually 1 shot of espresso is used, and sweetener or flavors can be added as well.
- Iced Macchiato: A layered espresso drink, with milk or cream poured over ice and carefully topped with espresso. If flavor or sweetener is to be added, it is layered below the espresso.
Common Questions
- Which Iced Drink Has the Most Caffeine: Iced Lattes or Iced Coffees?
Typically, an iced coffee will have more caffeine than an iced latte, even though the espresso in an iced latte has more caffeine per volume than the brewed coffee in an iced coffee.
Since there is so much more coffee than espresso in the respective iced drinks, iced coffees end up having more caffeine.
- Is an Iced Coffee Sweeter Than an Iced Latte?
Iced coffees and iced lattes both typically contain no sweetener, so in their most basic forms, neither are sweet. Which one ends up being sweeter depends on how much flavor or sweetener is added to the drink by the consumer.
- What Is the Difference Between Espresso and Coffee?
It might surprise you to know that espresso is a type of coffee. The real difference comes in how espresso and the brewed coffee used in iced coffee is prepared.
Espresso is highly concentrated coffee, traditionally a dark roast, that is brewed under high pressure to create the incredibly strong caffeinated drink. Espresso also has a crema foam on top.
Brewed coffee is made when water is used to extract flavor from ground coffee beans. Hot or cold water can be used.
Final Thoughts
Although they both have distinct differences, iced coffees and iced lattes are both wonderfully chilled coffee drinks that can put a pep in our step when we need it. They are highly customizable to our individual tastes, so whether you like flavored, unsweetened, or sweetened coffees, either of these iced drinks might work for you.
Now that you know the difference between the two, it will be so much easier to pick your favorites! Or maybe you enjoy both iced coffees and iced lattes, and it just depends on what sort of drink you’re craving day to day.
If you want a strong coffee flavor, or a black, nearly 0 zero calorie coffee, then iced coffee is the way to go. Since this drink can be taken black, it’s the best choice for people trying to cut calories.
If you want more room for milk or cream, go with the iced latte. An iced latte can be made stronger with additional espresso shots as well.
How to Make Proffee (Protein Coffee Seen On TikTok)
Proffee (protein + coffee = proffee) is one of the latest TikTok trends to go viral, and people are going crazy over this new coffee fad. So, how do you make proffee?
Making proffee is about as easy as it sounds, all it takes is coffee, protein powder (or a protein shake) and some ice! The best part about making proffee, aside from the number of health benefits, is that you can customize it to your liking! This energizing, post-workout drink is a great way to combine your coffee and your protein in one delicious, refreshing beverage.
The rest of this article will be your go-to-guide to proffee! What it is, how to make it, and why you should include it in your daily routine.
What is Proffee?
Proffee is a combination of coffee and protein that has recently gained a significant amount of popularity on TikTok. Known for its fantastic ability to get you your coffee and protein at the same time, proffee is most commonly used as a post-workout drink or a wake up drink, giving you a kick start to your day.
Proffee is typically made to be an iced coffee, but if you prefer it can be made hot. The only problem with this is that protein powder gets clumpy when warmed, which can make your job a bit more difficult.
This homemade drink is an excellent combination of protein and caffeine, and the best part is that you can experiment with it and make it your own. Some people have made proffee lattes, collagen coffee, etc!
Is Proffee Good for You?
Proffee is actually very good for you, and can have a number of health benefits when consumed in moderation. If consumed in excess, like many things, too much proffee can have the same effect as too much coffee, such as making you anxious or jittery.
Proffee is a rich source of antioxidants and nutrients such as riboflavin, potassium, and vitamin B. Vitamin B can help the body produce energy. The kick from caffeine can help to improve endurance and athletic performance, as well as enhancing mood and reaction time as well as improving memory.
A cup of coffee each day has been shown to decrease the chance of type 2 diabetes, liver disease, cancer, neurological diseases, and depression. Adding protein is an added bonus, as you need protein to keep your body functioning well. Drinking proffee first thing in the morning can give you the perfect kick start for your day, as well as reducing excess hunger later.
Proffee can also be healthier than regular coffee because protein powders come in various flavors, allowing you to customize your coffee to your liking without adding more unhealthy, sugary creamers.
How to Make Proffee
Proffee is quick and easy to make, and all it takes is a couple of ingredients and a few simple steps!
What You’ll Need
To make proffee, you will need:
- A coffee maker or an espresso maker (depending on the type of coffee you are using)
- A shaker or a whisk and bowl (if you’re using protein powder)
- A mug or a glass (for the final product of course!)
- Optional: Sweeteners such as coffee creamers or syrups
Note: if you are using a protein shake, you can simply use that in place of the protein powder
It is recommended that you use 1 cup of coffee or 1-2 espresso shots, 1 cup of a protein shake or 1-2 scoops of protein powder, and ½ a cup of ice to achieve the perfect ratio of coffee and protein for your proffee. However, you are welcome to experiment with the amount of each ingredient to make your proffee to your liking.
Putting it All Together
To make proffee, you will need to:
- Brew a cup of coffee (or espresso shots)
- Prepare a protein shake or protein powder (if using protein powder, mix the powder with water before adding it to the coffee)
- Mix everything together
And voila! You have yourself an excellent glass of proffee.
What is the Best Protein for Proffee?
There are a number of protein options for proffee, and there is no specific protein that will make or break your cup of proffee.
The protein powder you use can be changed based on your own preferences, such as flavors. There are many flavors to choose from when it comes to protein powders, such as vanilla and chocolate. The only suggestion when it comes to flavored protein powder is that you avoid fruity flavors or other kinds that would not pair well with coffee.
Instead of protein powder, some people recommend using a protein shake, since it is already made to drink. With a protein shake, all you need to do is mix it with coffee. When it comes to using protein powder, you need to mix it with water before adding it to the coffee in order to make it drinkable.
You can use either flavored or unflavored protein, however when using an unflavored protein powder you might want to add a sweetener, but that depends on personal preference. Some people have even experimented with different types of powder, such as collagen peptides powder for a specific type of protein. If you’re looking for specific brands, experts recommend Naked Nutrition, Designer Protein, Pure Protein, or Further Foods Collagen.
What is the Best Coffee for Proffee?
Similar to protein, there are a number of coffee options for proffee, and the type that is best depends entirely on your own personal likes and dislikes.
Regular iced coffee can be used for proffee, and whichever blend you like best will work just fine. Cold brew coffee, french press coffee, and pour over coffee will also work very well for proffee.
Another option is adding espresso shots to your proffee, and most people prefer to use one or two. Espresso shots are the most commonly used coffee added to protein shakes.
What Does Proffee Taste Like?
Before making proffee, you might want to know if it’s worth it taste-wise. Of course, why would you make it if it tastes bad?
The good news for you is that the taste of proffee depends entirely on the specific ingredients used. Different protein powders have different flavors, which you can pick based on your own preferences! So, not only is this drink full of health benefits and easy to make, it is entirely customizable!
What is the Difference Between Proffee and a Protein Shake?
There is a lot of hype surrounding proffee, but what makes it so different from a protein shake, and why is this difference significant?
The most significant difference between proffee and a protein shake is the amount of caffeine. A protein shake is typically made with milk or water, while proffee is made with coffee. A regular protein shake will not typically contain any caffeine. Proffee, on the other hand, includes caffeine as it is made with coffee, and the amount of caffeine will vary based on which kind of coffee you use.
What is the Difference Between Proffee and Coffee?
As silly as it may sound, this is actually not an absurd question to be asking. If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you may not want to alter your coffee routine, or you might not think it will make much of a difference.
However, while the difference between proffee and coffee seems small, it can actually have quite an impact on your day. Proffee contains protein that coffee does not, and since consuming coffee already has health benefits, the protein that you consume in addition to the coffee is merely an added bonus!
Conclusion
Proffee may sound a bit odd at first, but this trend hasn’t become viral on TikTok for no reason! Proffee is an innovative way to get both your protein and your caffeine, and start your day off with an extra boost.
Whether drinking it after a hard workout or right after waking up, proffee can give you that jolt of caffeine as well as a ton of protein to help give you energy and keep you moving throughout the day! It is easy to make, and you can use different ingredients to truly make it your own!
Proffee can be made customized exactly to your own likes and dislikes, allowing you to use different types of coffee, protein powder/protein shakes, and sweeteners!
Start your day off right with a fresh, homemade glass of proffee!
The Best Low-Calorie Starbucks Frappuccino Drinks
Do you want to enjoy Starbucks’ delicious blended frappuccino drinks without having to deal with all the calories? In this guide, we’re highlighting 10 of the best low-calorie Starbucks frappuccinos so that you can easily locate them on the menu.
These drinks all contain less than 350 calories for a tall serving size, but they have varying levels of fat, sugar, carbs, and other nutrients.
Ways to Customize a Frappuccino for Fewer Calories
Here are a few simple ways to lower the caloric content of your Starbucks frapp.
Switch to Low-Fat Add-Ins
Request skim milk or soy milk instead of whole or 2% milk to pack in fewer calories. You might also ask for low-fat flavor syrups when they’re available.
Request a Healthier Milk Option
Skim (fat-free) milk is way lower in calories than whole milk. You can also cut calories by choosing a dairy alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
Request Less Syrup/Flavoring
Syrups and sauces are fattening and full of sugar, meaning they add unnecessary calories to your frapps.
Choose Sugar-Free Add-Ins
Choosing sugar-free syrups, when they’re offered, can also lower the caloric content of a blended drink.
Skip Toppings Altogether
And if you want to straight-up cut out certain calories, ask for no whipped cream, no drizzle toppings, or no frappuccino chips.
Favorite Low-Cal Starbucks Frappuccinos (Less Than 350 Calories)
The best low-calorie Starbucks Frappuccinos include flavors like Strawberries & Creme, Espresso, Java Chip, and Coffee, among others.
These figures (including calorie, carb, and sugar content) are based on a standard tall sized frappuccino beverage (12 ounces) on the official Starbucks menu. They’re also all based on frappuccino recipes using 2% or whole milk and regular sweeteners/flavors.
- Starbucks Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino
- Starbucks Espresso Frappuccino Drink
- Starbucks Coffee Frappuccino
- Starbucks Java Chip Frappuccino Drink
- Starbucks Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino
- Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Creme Frappuccino
- Starbucks Chai Creme Frappuccino
- Starbucks White Chocolate Creme Frappuccino
- Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino
- Starbucks Double Chocolaty Chip Creme Frappuccino
1. Starbucks Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino
This blended frapp beverage at Starbucks is a refreshing choice in warmer months, incorporating fruity and creamy flavors.
It includes strawberry puree, classic sweetener syrup, vanilla whipped cream, milk, and ice. It’s super friendly to low-cal diets, but it has a lot of sugar and fat content to be aware of.
Take a look at the nutritional profile of a Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
- Calories: 260
- Calories from fat: 90
- Sugar (g): 39
- Fat (g): 10
- Caffeine (mg): little to none
- Carbohydrates (g): 40
- Cholesterol (mg): 35
2. Starbucks Espresso Frappuccino Drink
Unlike many other frappuccino recipes at Starbucks, this one is fairly caffeinated, owing to the espresso and coffee content. Similar to the Upside Down Espresso, it’s made with milk, ice, coffee-flavored frappuccino syrup, brewed espresso, and coffee.
This blended drink is perfect for those who want a refreshing cold drink that doesn’t compromise on the nutty, coffee flavor!
Here is the nutritional profile of an Espresso Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 150
Calories from fat: 9
Sugar (g): 33
Fat (g): 1
Caffeine (mg): more than 100
Carbohydrates (g): 34
Cholesterol (mg): 5
Sodium (mg): 140
Protein (g): 2
3. Starbucks Coffee Frappuccino
This is another Starbucks frapp favorite among fans of more bitter-tasting refreshments. The coffee-flavored frappuccino drink is a blend of ice, milk, coffee, and coffee-flavored frappuccino syrup.
It combines classic Starbucks flavors with a low-fat recipe so that fans of more caffeinated frapps can get the best of both worlds.
Here is the nutritional profile of a Coffee Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 160
Calories from fat: 20
Sugar (g): 31
Fat (g): 2.5
Caffeine (mg): 65
Carbohydrates (g): 31
Cholesterol (mg): 10
Sodium (mg): 160
Protein (g): 3
4. Starbucks Java Chip Frappuccino Drink
This lovely frapp is a combination of classic ingredients like Starbucks coffee, mocha sauce, coffee frappuccino syrup, frappuccino chips, milk, ice, and whipped cream.
It’s a super-charged mocha and chocolate-ey flavored blended drink that’s both refreshing and a source of energy. Although it has more sugar, calories, sodium, and fat than other frappuccinos on this list, it still rings in at under 400 calories.
Learn about the nutritional profile of a Java Chip Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 320
Calories from fat: 120
Sugar (g): 43
Fat (g): 13
Caffeine (mg): 75
Carbohydrates (g): 46
Dietary fiber (g): 2
Cholesterol (mg): 30
Sodium (mg): 180
Protein (g): 4
5. Starbucks Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino
This is a classic Starbucks frapp flavor, combining ingredients like milk, ice, vanilla bean powder, creme frappuccino syrup, and whipped cream!
It’s more on the heavy/creamy side of the frapp menu, but it still falls below 300 calories and is caffeine-free for those who want something less jolting in their iced Starbucks drink.
Learn about the nutritional profile of a Vanilla Bean Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 260
Calories from fat: 110
Sugar (g): 35
Fat (g): 12
Caffeine (mg): none
Carbohydrates (g): 35
Cholesterol (mg): 35
Sodium (mg): 170
Protein (g): 4
6. Starbucks Snickerdoodle Mocha Crème Frappuccino® Frappuccino
With just a touch of caffeine and delicious flavors from caramel to toffee nut and cinnamon dolce, this cookie-flavored frapp is a hot commodity at Starbucks. It also contains milk, ice, whipped cream, mocha sauce, and cinnamon sugar, so beware of the sugar content!
It’s still under 300 calories while remaining totally sweet and refreshing as a cold blended drink.
Learn about the nutritional profile of a Snickerdoodle Mocha Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 260
Calories from fat: 130
Sugar (g): 29
Fat (g): 14
Caffeine (mg): 5
Carbohydrates (g): 30
Cholesterol (mg): 45
Sodium (mg): 150
Protein (g): 4
7. Starbucks Chai Creme Frappuccino Drink
Fans of Starbucks’ iced chai latte who want a thicker and more dessert-like drink will enjoy the Chai Creme Frappuccino beverage. It’s complete with chai tea concentrate, milk, ice, creme frappuccino syrup, cinnamon, and whipped cream for a spicy yet sweet drink.
This is another great, under-300-calories frappuccino choice if you want something sweet yet caffeinated.
Learn about the nutritional profile of a Chai Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 230
Calories from fat: 100
Sugar (g): 29
Fat (g): 11
Caffeine (mg): 20
Carbohydrates (g): 29
Cholesterol (mg): 35
Sodium (mg): 160
Protein (g): 4
8. Starbucks White Chocolate Creme Frappuccino
The White Chocolate Creme Frappuccino is another good choice for fans of sweet, creamy, and mocha-ey flavors in their blended drink. It’s still under 300 calories, while incorporating delicious flavors of milk, whipped cream, creme frappuccino syrup, ice, and white chocolate mocha sauce.
Starbucks describes this frapp as “smooth” and refreshing.
Take a look at the nutritional profile of a White Chocolate Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 250
Calories from fat: 110
Sugar (g): 31
Fat (g): 13
Caffeine (mg): none
Carbohydrates (g): 31
Cholesterol (mg): 35
Sodium (mg): 190
Protein (g): 5
9. Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino
Caramel is one of Starbucks’ classic flavors for drinks - whether hot or cold. The Caramel Frappuccino is no exception, combining caramel sauce, caramel syrup, coffee frappuccino syrup, milk, ice, coffee, and whipped cream.
Some people enjoy this blended beverage served affogato-style, but the original style is just as delicious.
Take a look at the nutritional profile of a Caramel Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 260
Calories from fat: 100
Sugar (g): 37
Fat (g): 11
Caffeine (mg): 60
Carbohydrates (g): 38
Cholesterol (mg): 35
Sodium (mg): 160
Protein (g): 3
10. Starbucks Double Chocolaty Chip Creme Frappuccino
With just under 300 calories, this extra chocolate-ey, creamy frappuccino drink is a favorite among fans of sweets. It combines milk, ice, frappuccino chips, whipped cream, mocha sauce, and creme frappuccino syrup.
It even includes a little bit of caffeine if you want more than your typical frappuccino allows.
Take a look at the nutritional profile of a Double Chocolaty Chip Creme Frappuccino drink at Starbucks:
Calories: 290
Calories from fat: 130
Sugar (g): 33
Fat (g): 14
Caffeine (mg): 10
Carbohydrates (g): 36
Cholesterol (mg): 35
Sodium (mg): 190
Protein (g): 5
Skinny Frappuccinos - What Are They?
The word “skinny” means that the frappuccino uses no whipped cream, replaces syrup with sugar-free syrup, and switches to non-fat milk. “Skinny” is another way to request a “light” frapp.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low-Calorie Starbucks Frapps
Can you order a “light” frapp at Starbucks?
Yes, this is the same as ordering a “skinny” frapp. For example, a Tall Light Caramel Frappuccino is only 100 calories.
What is the Starbucks drink with the least calories?
Hot tea or hot black coffee are your lowest-calorie options on the beverage menu, with 0-5 calories total.
Does Starbucks make “non-fat” frappuccinos?
You can get your frappuccino modified to have less fat, but all milk alternatives contain fat, and many ingredients still contain some fat.
How many calories are in a light caramel frappuccino?
There are 100 calories in a Tall Light Caramel Frappuccino, 140 calories in a Grande, and 190 calories in a Venti.
The 4 Main Types of Coffee Roasts
If you’re passionate about your cappuccinos, cold brews, and caramel macchiatos, then you would naturally want to find out more about how this heavenly beverage is made. And learning the types of coffee roasts is a great place to start.
Traditionally, there are 4 main types of coffee roasts: light, medium, medium-dark, and dark. The former has the most caffeine, while the medium roast is considered to be the most popular one. A medium-dark is perfect for those who hate acidity and a dark roast is usually the right type for extra dense beans.
What roast type should you go for the next time you’ll be getting your traditional morning coffee? Let’s figure that out!
What Is Coffee Roasting?
Roasting is the exact process that transforms the physical and chemical properties of a green coffee bean that, ultimately, makes it possible for us to enjoy the unique flavor and aroma of coffee.
The coffee cherry seed will typically get heated up in a commercial roaster that looks like a cross between a clothes dryer and a pizza over.
During the process, the beans go through a few stages that lead to the birth of one of the types of coffee roasts. The roast directly affects the appearance of the coffee and its flavor, so knowing what type of roast you prefer will help you enjoy your coffee-consuming experience to the fullest.
The 4 Main Types of Coffee Roasts
Traditionally, coffee roasts fall under four main categories – light, medium, medium-dark, and, finally, dark roast.
Light Roast
You might notice that light roasts are also sometimes called ‘half city’, ‘light city’, and ‘white coffee’.
- The beans have a light brown color
- Don’t have any oil on the surface
- Are quite acidic
- Out of all the other types of roasts, contain the most caffeine
If you are ready to dive even deeper into the topic, then let’s have a look at the different types of light roast.
Cinnamon roast
The word ‘cinnamon’ has nothing to do with how the bean is going to taste. The roast was named that way because of its beautiful color.
The beans that have been removed from the roaster right after the first crack are the ones that are usually referred to as ‘cinnamon roast’. To achieve such a state, the beans have to be roasted at around 385 degrees Fahrenheit.
This type of roast is not commonly used for commercial or home brewing.
New England roast
The color of a New England roast is a tiny bit darker than that of a Cinnamon roast. The beans are roasted at around 400 F.
You can really taste the coffee’s origin at this point. If you truly want to be able to tell the difference between two different types of coffee beans, then roast them to this level and then taste the beverages side by side (like a real pro).
Medium Roast
The common names of this roast are ‘breakfast roast’ and ‘regular roast’.
- The beans have a medium brown color (close to the color of cocoa or milk chocolate)
- The first crack has already ended, but the second has not begun yet
- The beans are either not oily or only have a few flecks of oil
- More smoke starts coming from the roaster
American roast
American roast is not exactly a full medium roast. A lot of experts like to think of it as something in-between a light and a medium.
The beans get roasted at 410 F.
City roast
This is what most coffee addicts would expect a medium roast to taste like. You can sometimes hear people referring to this roast as ‘bright’.
The temperature in the roaster should be held at around 430 F to be able to create the perfect City roast.
Medium-Dark Roast
Also known as ‘after dinner roast’, ‘light French’, and ‘light espresso’.
- The beans have a richer brown color (like dark chocolate)
- The roast gets pulled during the first few snaps of the second crack
- There can be an oily sheen
Full City roast
Go for a Full City roast, if you are a fan of medium-dark roasts and opt for a Full City+, if you are the adventurous type who likes their coffee to be as close to the border of the ‘dark side’ as possible (but not quite there yet).
For a medium-dark, the beans get roasted at around 435 F.
Dark Roast
A dark roast comes with a lot of names – ‘New Orleans roast’, ‘Spanish roast’, ‘European’, ‘Neapolitan’, ‘Continental roast’, ‘Espresso roast’.
Some companies will have a scale that aligns all their dark roasts. The Spanish roast, for example, can be darker than the Italian one, and so on (bear in mind that there is no universal arrangement).
- The beans are deep brown, nearly black in color
- The oily sheen becomes even more pronounced (in fact, some beans can have a few oil droplets on them)
- This type of roast is the lowest in caffeine
Vienna/Viennese roast
This classic dark roast goes right past the second crack (halfway to the third one). At this point, the majority of beans will start losing their original notes. It is generally not recommended to go any darker.
The roasting temperature is held at about 435 F.
French roast
Such coffee beans are also known as ‘double roasted’ and they are prepared at 460 F.
Italian roast
Anything that is roasted over a temperature of around 460 F is classified as ‘Italian roast’. Zero flavors and a burnt taste – these aren’t exactly the qualities that you would want your coffee to exhibit.
The Flavor Profiles of Different Coffee Roasts
- Light roast
The first phase at which coffee actually becomes drinkable. Even though the beans will finally start looking and smelling like coffee, they are still quite underdeveloped and will have a grassy taste.
Cinnamon and New England roasts have a pronounced acidity and a ‘toasted grain’ flavor.
- Medium roast
Perhaps, the most popular type of roast as it offers the best of both worlds – you’ll get to enjoy the flavor of the bean’s origin (nutty, floral, fruity notes) without the acidity that is often present in light roasts.
- Medium-dark roast
This is a great choice for those willing to remove the acidity from their drink. At this stage, the earthy and spicy notes are going to start dominating, while the floral and fruity origin flavors will become a bit muted.
Pacific and East Indian coffees are, in general, the most suitable ones for a medium-dark roast as they naturally have spicy notes in them.
- Dark roast
You will start tasting less of the original flavors and more of the actual roasting. The beverage can appear burnt and, at one point, it might not matter any longer what beans you have in the roaster as they’ll all have the same taste.
With that being said, some extra dense beans will be able to maintain an original flavor even after they get into the dark territory.
What Do Coffee Beans Look Like Before Roasting?
Raw coffee beans are green and have a completely different texture, smell, and look. Essentially, raw beans are a part of a plant with a grassy, bitter, or chalky taste.
Why Can’t We Drink Unroasted Coffee?
Green coffee beans have a hard ‘skin’ and taste nothing like our beloved beverage. To make the coffee drinkable, you need to get rid of these plant compounds (like chlorophyll and anthocyanins, for example).
During the process of roasting, over 800 compounds get transformed. And this chemical transformation is exactly what makes the beans suitable for making delicious coffees.
Can You Roast Your Own Beans?
If you manage to get your hands on green coffee beans, you can try to roast them on your own by using a pan, the oven, or even a popcorn machine!
After 3-5 minutes, you will hear the first crack that indicates that your beans have already been lightly roasted (this is the minimum amount of time required to produce a batch of beans for your future coffee).
You would also have to figure out how to store your freshly roasted beans, but the whole experience is definitely fun and rewarding.
Coffee Roasting Stages
Whether the beans have been placed in a commercial roaster or on a simple pan, it doesn’t really matter. These little guys would have to go through the following stages in order to turn into the fantastic end product.
- Drying stage
- Browning stage
- Roasting (development) stage
What Is a Breve & How Is It Different from a Latte?
At times, making up your mind at a local coffee shop might be quite tough – there are just too many options on the menu. So, in the end, you find yourself leaving the place with a traditional latte or a cold brew.
However, if you’re a fan of coffee with milk, you might want to get out of your comfort zone next time and order a delicious breve.
A breve coffee is made out of espresso and steamed half-and-half (1:1). The half-and-half is the ingredient that makes a breve different from a latte that is made with regular milk. A mixture of heavy cream and milk makes a breve extra creamy, dense, and sweet.
What Is a Breve?
A breve is a coffee beverage that is a mix of espresso and steamed half-and-half. Just like a lot of other beverages, a breve is topped up with milk foam.
The main trick here is to add equal parts of steamed half-and-half and brewed espresso. But wait a minute…what is this mysterious half-and-half anyway?
The special ingredient is made out of whole milk and heavy cream. The blend is usually about 10-12% fat and has a much denser and creamier consistency than plain milk.
In fact, steamed half-and-half is the exact ingredient that gives your espresso that extra special touch and turns it into a rich breve.
The History of Breve Coffee
Breve coffee, café breve, breve latte, or simply ‘breve’. This beverage is an Americanized version of an Italian classic – latte.
No one knows for sure who created the coffee drink and when. All we know is that it originated in the United States, perhaps, in an attempt to make a beverage that would be a bit sweeter than the more widespread coffees.
In Italian, ‘breve’ means ‘short, little, concise, or brief’. The drink might have been named that way because half-and-half can’t rise as high as plain milk. Or the term ‘short’ simply refers to the short shot of espresso used in the beverage as the base.
How Do You Pronounce Breve?
Don’t let any pronunciation-related issues stop you from ordering a delicious breve on your next trip to the coffee shop!
It might seem tempting to say ‘breev’, but the Italian pronunciation of ‘breve’ is actually ‘breh-veh’.
With that being said, we should not forget that breve coffee is a beverage created in the US, so you can certainly get away with calling the drink ‘breh-vay’ (like in ‘hurray’) which is the American way of pronouncing it.
What Does a Breve Coffee Taste Like?
The espresso shot is the ingredient that is going to provide that strong coffee flavor and the half-and-half will add sweetness and richness flavor-wise and creaminess texture-wise.
This is a high-fat drink that is already quite sweet. So, even the coffee addicts that love their beverage to be extra sweet might sometimes not add any sweetener to their breve.
This is the perfect type of coffee to have as an occasional treat or even instead of your usual dessert.
The creamy, rich, sweet breve feels indulgent (but not too over the top) and a lot more flavorful than the more ‘traditional’ coffees. It is definitely an amazing choice for the coffeeholics who are in search of a more adventurous way to please their palettes.
Ordering a Breve Coffee at Starbucks
There is one important thing about breves and Starbucks that you should know. You won’t get the creamy deliciousness that we have been talking about, in case you simply ask for a breve at this coffee heaven.
The barista might simply hand you a steamed half-and-half (which is, of course, not what you’re going for). The trick here is that at Starbucks, breve is not really served as a stand-alone drink, it is thought of more as an add-on to your favorite coffee.
For example, you can ask for a breve cappuccino, and instead of using plain milk, the barista will prepare your beverage using steamed half-and-half.
To get the traditional version of a breve, forget about the fancy Italian name and simply order an espresso with steamed half-and-half instead of regular milk.
You can also go ahead and order a ‘breve latte’ to get a more indulgent version of the traditional latte. To be fair, you can do this with practically any drink, if you’re willing to add an extra layer of depth to your coffee.
Do bear in mind that you won’t see a breve on the menu, but don’t let that stop you from ordering the yummy beverage. Any barista at Starbucks (and practically any other coffee shop) will be able to make your little wish come true.
Ordering a Breve Coffee at Dutch Bros
If you’re looking for a place that respects and truly adores all kinds of breves, then head to Dutch Bros – their selection of breve spinoffs is truly impressive. Just like in any other coffee place, you can add various syrups and drizzles to your espresso and half-and-half and modify the intensity of the drink.
For example, you can get 5 shots of espresso instead of one or add less than one regular serving of espresso to your coffee to make it sugarier and milkier. Even though the traditional ratio in breves is 1:1, you don’t have to follow the recipe - the world is your oyster.
If you don’t want to be inventing anything on your own, then you can try one of the spinoffs that the coffee shop already has on the menu.
- Annihilator (espresso, half-and-half, and chocolate macadamia nut syrup)
- Golden Eagle (espresso, half-and-half, vanilla syrup, and caramel sauce topped with a caramel sauce drizzle and whipped cream)
- Kicker (espresso, half-and-half, and Irish cream syrup)
- 9-1-1 (6 shots of espresso (!), half-and-half, and Irish cream syrup)
The Differences Between Latte & Breve
The main difference between a latte and a breve is the fact that the latter is made with half-and-half. The milk and cream mixture makes the beverage a lot thicker and richer.
Traditional lattes, on the other hand, are made with regular whole milk which makes these drinks lighter and foamier.
By the way, the ratio of espresso to milk in a breve is 1:1, while in a latte it’s 1:3. So, if you’re on the hunt for a beverage with a stronger coffee flavor, then a breve might be the right choice for you.
Is a Breve Healthier?
Of course, the number of calories is going to depend on the type of milk used and the toppings, but if we’re talking about plain lattes and breves, then the same size of a breve will have more calories in it.
You get these extra calories from the half-and-half used in the drink.
Is a Breve Sweeter?
A half-and-half has higher sugar content than regular milk, so breves are usually sweeter than plain lattes.
The sweetness is actually one of the main reasons why a lot of people are drawn to breve coffees and get it as a treat every once in a while.
How to Make a Breve at Home
- Prepare your two shots of espresso (for a traditional breve, you are going to need around 2 ounces of coffee).
- To prepare your half-and-half, combine equal parts of heavy cream and whole milk.
- Steam the half-and-half (make sure that it’s very cold). Ideally, you would want to steam your mixture in a small metal milk jug.
- When pouring the steamed half-and-half into your mug, hold the foam with a spoon. Once you’ve finished with the pouring, add a spoon of foam to the top of your drink.
Keto-Friendly Breve Coffee
It is possible to make a keto-friendly version of a breve if you find the right substitution for the half-and-half.
You can mix equal parts of hot water and heavy cream or go for full-fat coconut milk, coconut cream, or nut milk (the last few options would be vegan-friendly as well).
Of course, it won’t be a pure version of a breve coffee, but some coffeeholics admit that they actually prefer almond or cashew milk in their half-and-half as it adds a unique taste to the coffee.
Other Breve-Style Drinks
There are plenty of breve-style drinks out there that you might want to give a try. Simply look for the beverages that have espresso and half-and-half in them.
The barista can experiment with the amount of coffee or add delicious syrups and toppings that will take your breve experience to a whole new level.
Iced Macchiato vs. Iced Latte (Explanation & Recipe)
Introduction
Have you ever wondered what the differences are between an iced macchiato and an iced latte? If you aren’t sure which to choose the next time you are in a cafe or you want to try making some fancy coffees at home, it’s important to understand this.
An iced latte is three parts milk and one part espresso, poured across ice. Iced lattes often have additional flavorings, too. A macchiato can vary depending on the cafe, but it is often two shots of espresso with a little steamed milk poured on top. The two drinks are very similar in most cases.
Iced Latte Compared With Iced Macchiato
Iced Latte
An iced latte is generally quite a standardized drink, and it usually consists of one part coffee to a ratio of three parts milk. The two ingredients are poured over ice to chill them, and they often have flavorings added to alter the overall taste of the coffee. It's also worth noting that iced lattes often contain low fat milk, rather than full fat.
Some cafes will also add more coffee to increase the strength of the latte, using two shots of espresso and two or three shots of milk. This alters the flavor significantly, but it does still amount to the same thing – an iced coffee that is not enormously strong.
Iced Macchiato
An iced macchiato is an odd form of the drink because macchiatos were traditionally served hot. Two shots of espresso would be brewed, and then the barista would add up to two teaspoons of full fat steamed milk to the cup. This milk would spread across the surface, marbling the color. Sometimes, the espresso is poured over the milk instead, but neither version is stirred.
This is what led to the name macchiato, which means “marked” or “spotted.” It also means that macchiatos were always served hot, with both the espresso and the milk being heated before being combined.
Turning this into a cold drink often undoes this “stained” look and, by many people’s standards, turns the macchiato into a different drink. This may be why many coffee shops vary so widely in what they call an iced macchiato. You will often find that a macchiato in a cafe is mostly made of chilled milk, with a couple of shots of espresso.
This has led to a lot of confusion, because this is essentially an iced latte too. If we compare how popular cafes make the two drinks, you’ll notice there is a lot of overlap. For example, Dunkin Donuts makes an iced macchiato by pouring two shots of espresso over milk and ice, and makes an iced latte by pouring a shot of espresso and milk over ice.
Similarly, Starbucks makes an iced latte by pouring two shots of espresso and milk over ice, and makes a caramel iced macchiato by pouring two shots of espresso over ice and milk and adding vanilla and caramel to it. Without the flavorings, this would essentially be the same drink.
Can You Combine Iced Lattes And Iced Macchiatos?
Starbucks has created an iced latte-macchiato, and it’s similar to both iced lattes and iced macchiatos. It involves pouring three shots of espresso over milk and ice – so it’s a bit stronger, but otherwise very similar. It doesn’t automatically have flavorings added, but you can request them.
How Do You Make Iced Macchiatos?
It’s easy to make iced macchiatos yourself if you fancy one on a hot summer day. You can alter the ratios to suit your tastes if you prefer, or remove the vanilla syrup and add another flavor of your choosing – or you can leave the flavors out entirely.
It only takes about 5 minutes to make this recipe, which serves 1 person.
Equipment You Need
You will require:
-
A measuring spoon
-
A tall drinking glass
-
An espresso brewer
Ingredients Required
You’re going to need:
-
Crushed ice
-
1 or 2 teaspoons of milk (to taste)
-
Vanilla syrup
Method
-
Start by filling the glass with ice, leaving some space at the top so that you can add the liquids. It won’t need a lot of room, but you don’t want the glass to overflow.
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Brew the 2 shots of espresso and add them to the glass.
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Add the vanilla syrup and stir it well.
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Pour 1 or 2 teaspoons of milk over the espresso, and leave it unstirred to create the marbled effect that macchiatos are known for.
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Serve immediately.
How Do You Make Iced Lattes?
An iced latte is also easy to make yourself at home, and you can again leave the syrup flavoring out of it if you prefer. If you like vanilla, leave the syrup in and enjoy this slightly modified version of the drink.
Equipment You Need
You will require:
-
A measuring spoon
-
A tall drinking glass
-
An espresso brewer
Ingredients Required
You’re going to need:
-
Crushed ice
-
3 or 4 oz of milk (adjust to suit your preference)
-
1 or 2 shots of espresso (adjust to suit your preference)
-
Vanilla syrup
Method
-
Start by filling the glass with ice, but again remember to leave enough space to add the milk and espresso. You will need more space for this recipe, as there is more milk in it. Make sure the glass won’t overflow when you add the milk.
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Brew the espresso and pour it over the ice.
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Pour in the 3 or 4 oz of milk.
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Add the vanilla syrup to taste and stir to combine all of the ingredients.
Which Drink Contains More Coffee?
As a rule of thumb, a macchiato tends to have more coffee in it than a latte, and it’s a stronger drink. This is only a generalization, however, as different cafes make the drinks in different ways. Often, both a macchiato and a latte will contain 2 shots of espresso.
If you want a strong drink, it is usually best to opt for a macchiato, or ask the barista to make your latte with 2 shots of espresso. If you go to Starbucks and order their iced latte-macchiato, you will get a full 3 shots of espresso, but few cafes serve this mixed drink.
If you are making the drinks yourself at home, you can make either stronger, and the recipes will still work fine.
How Do They Compare To Cappuccinos?
To add further confusion to the coffee debate, cappuccinos also have quite a lot in common with macchiatos and lattes. However, a cappuccino is made with equal ratios of steamed milk, espresso, and foam, whereas both macchiatos and lattes use unequal ratios.
A latte will usually contain less coffee than a cappuccino, and a macchiato will usually contain less milk. Of course, you are likely to see variations depending on where you get your drink from or how you make it at home, but typically, a cappuccino is milkier than a macchiato and stronger than a latte.
FAQs
Q: Should you stir an iced macchiato?
A: No, it’s best not to stir an iced macchiato. The point of a macchiato is to create a stained appearance by adding the milk to the top of the drink and not mixing it in. When you stir the milk in, you are almost making a latte, which is why the recipe above suggests adding the vanilla syrup and stirring it into the coffee before you add the milk.
Q: Should you stir an iced latte?
A: Yes, an iced latte is a mixed drink and it’s fine to stir it. Add the milk and then use a spoon to mix it into the coffee, along with any syrup that you wish to add.
Q: How strong should a macchiato be?
A: Macchiatos can vary in strength, but it is common to add two shots of espresso to them, and only a small amount of milk. Macchiatos will rarely have less than two shots of espresso.
Q: How strong should a latte be?
A: Lattes can also vary, but most contain only one shot of espresso, and three shots of milk. Some will have two shots of espresso, so remember to check with the cafe if you don’t like strong coffee.
Conclusion
Iced lattes and iced macchiatos have a lot in common, and if you are thinking of getting one, it’s worth checking how the cafe makes it. These drinks can vary quite a lot. Iced macchiatos in particular can cause confusion, and fewer cafes offer this drink – but it is available in some places and it is easy to make at home if you prefer.