Taste-Testing Starbucks’ New Holiday Drinks

It’s officially winter season, which means that most of the new and returning Starbucks seasonal drinks have been released — such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte, Gingerbread Chai, Caramel Brûlée Latte, and more. Among them are fan favorites, including the Sugar Cookie Latte and the Pumpkin Cream Chai. While some of the classics have been brought back by popular demand, Starbucks has also introduced a new line of protein drinks and has leaned heavily into nostalgic, dessert-inspired flavors this year. I spent the past month tasting each one to see which drinks are worth getting — and which ones you should skip. 

1. Iced Vanilla Protein Latte

The first drink that caught my attention while scrolling through the menu on the Starbucks app was the Iced Vanilla Protein Latte. I’ve had the Iced Vanilla Latte many times and really enjoy it, so I was curious to see whether adding protein would enhance its taste. In the grande size, this drink features ice, two shots of espresso, four pumps of vanilla syrup, and protein-boosted milk. When I first sipped the drink, it tasted identical to the regular Iced Vanilla Latte. As I kept drinking, I couldn’t really taste any of the heavy protein mixture that some people on social media weren’t loving. The flavor of the vanilla was less intense as a result of the protein powder, but it was still very good, and with 29 grams of protein in a grande-sized drink, it is a great way to get some extra protein in. 

I give it an overall rating of 8/10.

2. Iced Protein Matcha

The second drink that I ended up getting was recommended to me by a friend and comes from the same new line of protein drinks. In the tall size, the Iced Protein Matcha has ice, two scoops of matcha powder, and two pumps of classic syrup. Surprisingly, this drink has 36 grams of protein, which is impressive for a grande-sized drink. The protein in the drink was more prominent in a bad way and did not complement the matcha texture. I have tried the hot matcha latte from Starbucks before, and unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations for the matcha flavor. The iced version has a similar issue with the matcha quality. The overpowering sweetness of the syrup mutes the matcha flavor. Additionally, both drinks have a slightly grainy texture instead of the earthy, smooth matcha flavor I love. I believe that you can find better matcha at a local cafe than at Starbucks. 

I would give it a score of 5/10. 

3. Iced Gingerbread Chai

Later on in the week, I purchased the Iced Gingerbread Chai, which was so amazing. It includes Gingerbread Cream Cold Foam, ice, four pumps of chai, and a pumpkin spice topping. I must note that I did switch the 2% milk for oatmilk, which I strongly encourage when getting this drink. It had a unique flavor, and each element blended really well together. Surprisingly, the pumpkin, gingerbread, and chai didn’t overpower each other, bringing a very festive feeling that is great for the wintertime. 

I award it a rating of 10/10. 

4. Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai

While scrolling through TikTok, I came across an influencer who said the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai was her new favorite drink at Starbucks for fall, so I ended up getting that next. It is almost interchangeable with the Iced Gingerbread Chai in terms of ingredients, except that it swaps the gingerbread cream cold foam for pumpkin cream cold foam. This substitution takes the pumpkin spice taste to the next level. The sweet pumpkin aroma is clear from the smell, and it is the only flavor in the drink. I prefer the Iced Gingerbread Chai because it offers a variety of flavors, but the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai was still quite pleasant. 

I would give it a score of 8/10. 

5. Sugar Cookie Frappuccino

I also bought the Sugar Cookie Frappuccino to change my usual order of an Iced Shaken Espresso and try a different style of drink from Starbucks. It consists of sugar-cookie-flavored syrup combined with Starbucks Frappuccino Roast coffee and whole milk, and blended with ice, then topped with whipped cream and red and green sprinkles. Normally, I don’t get Frappuccinos; however, this one pleasantly surprised me. It didn’t taste too artificial, as I was expecting from the sugar-cookie-flavored syrup, and was not too dense. While I don’t consider it the best drink at Starbucks, I do suggest it for people who want to try a new type of drink, especially if they are accustomed to getting cold brews or lattes like I am. 

I’d rate it a 7/10.

This winter season, Starbucks offers an array of drink flavors, from Sugar Cookie to Pumpkin Spice, Gingerbread Chai, Pecan Crunch, and more, catering to anyone’s preference. The Iced Vanilla Protein Latte stands out for those seeking a protein boost, while the charm of the Sugar Cookie Frappuccino makes it a wonderful festive treat that captures the holiday spirit. Some of the drinks I got excelled in flavor and creativity, but others fell short of my hopes. However, it’s important to remember that each person’s experiences may vary in terms of what flavors, textures, and substitutions they choose for their drink. Whether you choose a classic option or want to try one of their new offerings next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, Starbucks’ winter drinks this year are certainly worth enjoying.

• holiday
• starbucks
• winter