As the devil of winter sweeps through Boston, casting wind and snow on our campus and shivering our bones, it’s become clear that we need something to warm us up. Some of us may have boyfriends to cuddle, others may brave fuzzy unflattering hats, but the bulk of us will turn to Starbucks and Dunkin’ for the answer.
1) The New Caramel Flan Latte, Starbucks
Starbucks added a new drink to its menu this winter, and for those caramel lovers out there, it is sure to be a delight. With steamed milk, infused whipped cream, and flavors of flan, this drink will give you a delectable taste of dessert as you face your piercingly cold day.
Tall Calories (12oz): 260, 9g Protein, 15% Vitamin A, 30% of daily needed calcium
2) While Hot Chocolate, Starbucks
Some may not be aware of this temptingly mouth-watering drink; Starbucks has turned a traditional winter beverage into something even more delicious. The flavors of white chocolate, steaming milk, and whipped cream combined awaken your tastebuds from their winter slumber and can remind you of marshmallows roasting over a fire on a cozy winter night.
Tall Calories (12oz): 370, 12g protein, 15% Vitamin A, 45% of daily needed calcium
3) Mint Hot Chocolate, Dunkin’ Donuts
Ever since I accidentally ordered this drink a year ago, I have been unable to keep my hands off of its steaming cup. Reminiscent of peppermint patties, mint chocolate chip ice cream, peppermint bark, and, well, anything heavenly on this earth, this drink simply refreshing and irresistable.
Small 220 calories, not a significant source of Vitamin A or Calcium
4) Gingerbread Latte, Starbucks
It is only practical to strut down Commonwealth Avenue with a Stabucks Holiday cup which actually contains a drink from the holiday menu. Combined with espresso, this drink will have no trouble waking you up to pay attention in your next class. Winter break may be over, but our tastebuds can still enjoy the sweetness of gingerbread in every sip, bringing back thoughts of home as we curl our fingers around this warm mug of steamy spice-infused goodness with just a drizzle of molasses.
Tall Calories (12oz): 260, 9g Protein, 15% Vitamin A, 30% of daily needed calcium
5) Hot Chocolate Salted Caramel, Dunkin’ & Salted Caramel Mocha, Starbucks
Whether you are a devoted goldmember of ‘bucks or a die-hard DD consumer, you can enjoy this rich combination of sweet and salty flavors. Happiness comes in many forms (clearly not in the form of 9 degree Boston weather), and one of these takes the shape of one memorable cup of sea salt, mocha, and caramel drizzle.
Dunkin: small 220 calories, 4% calcium, not a significant source of Vitamin A or Iron
Starbucks: 330 calories in a tall (12oz), 10g protein, 15% Vitamin A, 30% Calcium, 15% Iron
6) Swiss Miss
Of course, if you are running low on dining and convenience points, or if you are just too comfortable within your blanket burrito, there is always Swiss Miss to the rescue. In flavors such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, marshmallow, mint, and more, Swiss Miss allows you to immediately enjoy your favorite flavors from the comfort of your beckoning down pillows.
Stay warm, and drink up!