Do you love going to Starbucks, but are tired of getting the same boring drink every time?
I used to get the same Grande Chai Tea Latte everyday after school, and I’d always stick to the same order because I didn’t want to risk trying a new drink and not liking it. However, once I became a barista, I figured out a way to try a new drink but still keep the old flavors I knew and loved. My solution is modifying the recipes of classic drinks!
Here are my top five drinks with a twist-some were inspired by customer, and some were discovered through trial and error. Enjoy!
1. Passion Tea Lemonade
Try Adding: Raspberry Syrup
The Passion Tea Lemonade is a classic go-to with drink for those hot summer days. Next time you head to Starbucks, try adding Raspberry syrup! The Raspberry syrup adds a sweetness to the drink and balances the tanginess of the Passion Tea Lemonade out. Another tip is to always ask for light ice so your drink doesn’t get diluted and you get more for your money!
2. Chai Tea Latte
Try Adding: Vanilla Syrup
The Chai Tea Latte is the perfect drink to order on a snowy winter day, but you can also get it iced on those warmer days! As a barista, I’ve heard a lot of complaints about how spicy the latte is because the Starbucks Chai is quite strong, but after experimenting with different syrups during a boring shift, I found the solution: Vanilla syrup. The vanilla syrup gives the latte a sweeter taste but is not overpowering, so you still get that Chai flavor. I recommend ordering the drink with almond milk for a smoother taste, and it’s also a great alternative for all of my lactose intolerant friends!
3. Strawberry Acai Refresher
Try Adding: Lemonade/Blackberries
The Strawberry Refresher is a light strawberry flavored drink with just a splash of caffeine to keep you energized for the day. This drink, and its counterpart, the “Pink Drink” (Strawberry Acai with Coconut Milk) is arguably the most popular drink at Starbucks since its release. However, the Strawberry Refresher with lemonade and blackberries is definitely a drink that has been slept on. The lemonade substitutes water and gives the drink a citrus base that compliments the strawberry refresher. The blackberries add more fruitiness to the taste, and for those who love both the Very Berry Hibiscus and the Strawberry Acai Refresher, this drink gives you the best of both worlds.
4. Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
Try Adding: Java Chips and Raspberry Syrup
The Vanilla Bean Frappuccino is one of the original frappes that Starbucks came out with that tastes just like ice cream! It’s the perfect drink for people who aren’t the biggest fans of coffee. I’m not much of a frappuccino drinker, but this recipe came to me through some of my regular customers. The java chips give the frappuccino a chocolate twist and the raspberry syrup definitely complements the combination of flavors nicely. If you’re the kind of person who is torn between chocolate and vanilla ice cream, this drink is definitely the one for you. Tip: Add mocha sauce with your whipped cream.
5. Steamed Apple Juice
Try Adding: Caramel + Chai (2 pumps each)
If you aren’t much of a latte lover, Starbucks does offer other drinks such as steamed Apple Juice, which most people order in the fall. Personally, I don’t really see the point in paying an excessive amount of money for hot apple juice, so I recommend spicing the drink up with caramel and chai. The caramel syrup sweetens the apple juice, while the chai syrup gives the drink a spicier side, and the flavors together balance out perfectly. It’s the perfect fall drink, and if you were looking for caffeine but aren’t into lattes, the chai syrup is caffeinated so you are all set!