We taste-tested some of the latest launches from Starbucks to see if the brand’s newest winter additions really live up to the hype. From the delectable short and smooth Cortado to the highly-anticipated Maple Mini Pancakes, here’s what we think of these cozy new offerings.
Drinks
Returning Beverages: Pistachio Paradise
It’s the official return of our go-to Pistachio drinks at Starbucks! The Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew are fan favorites that are back and better than ever, only available as limited-time offerings this winter. The Pistachio Latte can be ordered hot, iced, or as a Frappuccino blended beverage and is oh-so delicious. It combines Starbucks Signature Espresso with steamed milk, blended with the comforting taste of sweet pistachio, and finished with a rich brown butter topping. Depending on if you get it hot or iced, it’s perfect for warming up on a crisp winter day.
The Pistachio Cream Cold Brew beverage features Starbucks Cold Brew, made from a custom blend of beans steeped slowly for a rich, velvety flavor. It’s sweetened with vanilla syrup, topped with a pistachio cream cold foam, and finished with salted brown buttery sprinkles. One word: YUM! This is the ultimate treat-yourself drink if you’re looking for a refreshing, indulgent choice that’s both smooth and flavorful, spotlighting a touch of cozy warmth. Out of both Pistachio offerings, we think this one in particular takes the cake!
NEW Beverages: Velvety Smooth Cortado
Starbucks made waves earlier this year with the introduction of a thrilling new addition to its classic espresso lineup: the Cortado. This is the latest hot espresso drink to join the menu since the Flat White in 2015, and it’s also available as a Brown Sugar Oat Cortado for a delicious, non-dairy twist.
So what is the Cortado, exactly? It’s a traditional Spanish coffee known for its small size and bold flavor. Starbucks’ version of the Cortado is made with three ristretto shots of the brand’s smooth Blonde Espresso, which offers subtle notes of candied apple and bittersweet chocolate. The ristretto method extracts a more concentrated flavor by using the same amount of coffee grounds as a regular espresso but with less water and a quicker brew time. This rich espresso is then balanced with steamed whole milk (or your choice of milk), creating a creamy, perfectly blended drink.
We opted to try both the Cortado and the Brown Sugar Oat Cortado to put them both to the test. If you’re after something with a sweeter, more flavorful profile, the Brown Sugar Oat Cortado is our personal fave, and a winner in our books. This drink is made with three ristretto shots of Starbucks Blonde Espresso, offering a sweeter, more robust coffee flavor overall. It’s also topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and paired with cozy hints of brown sugar syrup and steamed oat milk, creating a smooth, velvety texture.
However, the classic Starbucks Cortado is the perfect pick-me-up if you want a more traditional coffee experience highlighting the pure, bold taste of espresso balanced by just a hint of steamed milk.
Snacks
Maple Mini Pancakes
We’ve officially discovered our new must-have from Starbucks- the Maple Mini Pancakes! These adorable treats come in serving sizes of 4 or 8 and are the ideal on-the-go snack. Infused with rich maple sugar, these bite-sized pancakes deliver a sweet, golden flavor we can’t get enough of! After going viral on social media, these are the perfect sweet treat to start your morning but they also make for the ultimate mid-day snack. They’re also super shareable!
Belgian Liège Waffle
Joining the Maple Mini Pancakes as part of the brand’s new food launches is the Belgian Liège Waffle. As everything you’ve dreamed of and more, these waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft and tender on the inside. Plus, they’re infused with pearl sugar and a hint of vanilla, offering the perfect balance of flavors. These waffles are a definite must-try next time you head to Starbucks because they’re an indulgent yet versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.
Joining the brand’s exciting new food launches are some returning classics, such as the Heart Sugar Cookie and Valentine Cake Pop, which are on-trend to celebrate the day of love.
The brand also raised the bar this season with the introduction of stylish new drinkware merch and the Starbucks Single-Origin Ethiopia, which is available for a limited time as packaged whole-bean coffee. This is the brand’s first-ever blonde roast of Ethiopian coffee, in which this unique brew offers an exceptional flavor profile featuring aromas of ginger blossom and tasting notes of tangerine, lemon balm, and sweet dates. It’s all balanced by a medium acidity and a medium-light body.
What will you be trying during your next trip to Starbucks this winter season? —Samantha Vecchiarelli
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