23 Best Iced Coffee Drinks at Starbucks [2024 Best Bets]
There’s no better way to kick start the day or brighten up a slow afternoon than indulging in an invigorating iced coffee drink. Walking into Starbucks, with its array of choices, is a lot like walking into a paradise for caffeine lovers — from the classic and uncomplicated Iced Coffee to the sinfully indulgent Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino. The green-straw-clad haven lives up to the hype, consistently offering an impressive array of coffee and milk-alternative concoctions, all worth sipping!
In this blog post, I’ve curated a list of the “best iced coffee drinks at Starbucks”, some of which have become my go-to choices, while others remain on the must-try list. But before we dive into the flavors, let’s take a moment to appreciate the refreshing chill of an iced coffee drink — a perfect redeemer on a hot day, made even better by the unique twists and turns Starbucks always offers the classic brew. So, whether you’re a seasoned Starbucks aficionado or a newbie looking for some well-crafted recommendations, this list is for you. Let’s explore the coolest Starbucks offerings, shall we?
Also Read: Best Starbucks Drinks
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23 Best Iced Coffee Drinks at Starbucks in 2024
When it comes to iced coffee, Starbucks offers a delightful mixture of classic choices and innovative options. Whether you crave the simplicity of a traditional iced coffee or seek a complex fusion of flavors, you can always find a drink to satiate your specific craving. So, sit back and get ready to explore the 10 best iced coffee drinks Starbucks currently serves up.
1. Nitro Cold Brew
Nitro Cold Brew has quickly become the talk of coffee town, and for good reason. It begins with a slow-steeped, small-batch brew that is then infused with nitrogen, leading to an ultra-smooth texture that quite literally cascades from the tap with a creamy, microfoam top. Nitro Cold Brew delivers an intense, naturally sweet flavor that is exceptionally smooth and velvety.
Its strong coffee flavor makes it ideal for those who prefer their coffee on the stronger side but without any rough edges. It truly brings your coffee drinking experience to an entirely different level. Try it black to fully appreciate the nuances, or add a dash of sweet cream to soften the edges – either way, it’s a remarkable sip each time.
2. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
The Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is a vegan gem in the Starbucks iced coffee line-up. Combining blonde espresso, brown sugar, and oat milk, this beverage offers a satisfying balance of sweetness and caffeine. Shaken, not stirred (apologies, Bond!), the method allows all components to beautifully integrate, presenting a harmonious burst of flavor in each sip. This drink lays emphasis on the environmentally conscious consumer, capitalizing on the popularity of oat milk. Its rich and creamy texture akin to dairy milk, and the addition of a brown sugar syrup, adds a comforting caramel touch, making every sip incredibly indulgent.
3. Iced Caffè Latte
The Iced Caffè Latte is a timeless classic, appreciated by coffee lovers worldwide. At its heart, it’s simply a blend of milk and espresso, served cold over ice. What elevates this beverage is the quality of Starbucks espresso – robust yet smooth, and the softness of the chilled milk that hugs the espresso, toning down its strength without shadowing its flavor. This latte leaves a creamy, satisfying taste in your mouth that makes you yearn for more. You can enjoy it as is, or add a flavor syringe like vanilla or caramel to make it fitting to your palate. The Iced Caffè Latte is undeniably a tried and true choice when seeking a cold caffeine-fix.
4. Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino
For the chocolate aficionados, the Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino is a dream come true. Just like it sounds, this beverage is as indulgent as it gets. Rich, velvety, and creamy, it merges mocha sauce and frappuccino chips with a decadent vanilla whipped cream, topped off with a mocha drizzle—in other words, a chocolate lover’s bliss! While it may not provide the caffeine kick associated with traditional coffee drinks, it never disappoints with its velvety, dense consistency, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chips. Consider it a sweet treat or a dessert in a cup.
5. Iced Coffee
Now, if simplicity is your middle name, the quintessential Iced Coffee should be your first pick. As straightforward as it sounds, this drink at Starbucks is an expertly brewed coffee, chilled and served on a bed of ice. While it does not boast the complex flavor profiles of some other drinks on this list, it never fails to offer a refreshing, full-bodied coffee flavor. Bonus points for pairing perfectly with any of the flavored syrups on offer at Starbucks—a splash of caramel or vanilla, perhaps? Plus, for those longer days, it’s also available in an extra-large Trenta size.
6. Caramel Frappuccino
How about a little bit of sweetness to go with your coffee? Try the Caramel Frappuccino—an enticing fusion of coffee, milk, and caramel syrup, all blended with ice, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of buttery caramel sauce. Each sip is bursting with a creamy, rich flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness and the robustness of the coffee. It’s the drink of choice for anyone with a sweet tooth who still demands a solid coffee hit.
7. Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew
Imagine sipping on a glass of chilled, smooth, vanilla-kissed cold brew crafted by one of the best coffee makers in the world. This is what Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew offers. It’s a spin-off of the Nitro Cold Brew that elevates the cold brew with the addition of vanilla sweet cream. The result? An immersive experience of velvety nitro cold brew contrasted by the slightest hint of sweet, creamy vanilla, adding an exquisite depth to the taste.
8. Vanilla Iced Latte
Another classic on the list, the Vanilla Iced Latte, masters the perfect blend of washed espresso, milk, and luscious sweet vanilla. The hint of vanilla adds a pleasant sweetness that enhances the deep coffee notes providing a smooth, comforting, creamy drink. This option is perfect if you’re looking for a hint of sweetness to your iced coffee without going overboard. The way the silky milk and aromatic vanilla meld with the strong, poignant shot of espresso is simply irresistible.
9. Reserve Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte
Experience a hint of luxury with Starbucks Reserve Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte. This harmonious blend of Starbucks Reserve espresso, hazelnut praline-infused milk, served over ice brings a delightful, creamy texture complete with the nutty goodness of hazelnuts. The lasting finish of the rich, buttery feel of pralines only adds to this dark, rich, and full-bodied experience of the Reserve coffee. It guarantees a divine experience, especially for those who prefer their coffee to have a nutty, sweet, and luxurious aftertaste.
10. Iced Caffè Mocha
Calling all chocoholics and coffee enthusiasts! The Iced Caffè Mocha offers the best of both worlds in a single, refreshing cup. This is an invigorating, robust cup of espresso blended with creamy milk, ice, and topped off with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle, offering a sweet treat with every sip. With its rich coffee essence partnered with the smooth sweetness of chocolate, it’s a delightfully decadent option for the parched adventurer seeking a delightful coffee break.
Also Read: Best Starbucks Matcha Drinks
11. Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Espresso
Pushing the boundaries of adventurous coffee concoctions, the Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Espresso is a journey of flavor! This dairy-free treat combines balanced almond milk, a bold espresso shot, and the delightful sweetness of chocolate. It dances a delicate balance between the robustness of coffee and the smooth, sweet chocolate undertone, making this drink a nurturing beverage that’s also suitable for the vegan or lactose-intolerant coffee lover.
12. Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Combining the soothing properties of cinnamon with the invigorating properties of coffee seems almost too good to be true! One sip of the Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte, and your taste buds are taken on a ride—a whirlwind of warming cinnamon, rich espresso, creamy milk, chilled with ice, and completed with a sprinkling of cinnamon dolce topping. Perfectly sweet, slightly spiced, it’s the chilly twist on your favorite winter latte.
13. Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso
If you savored the traditional Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Espresso, venture a notch further and try the Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso. It caters to the coffee adventurers who aren’t afraid to shake things up. This fuss-free shake-and-go combines Starbucks’ signature espresso, milky almond milk, a touch of chocolate, and is shaken to perfection to create a frothy, rich concoction guaranteed to rejuvenate your senses.
14. Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
Starbucks’ Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte promises dessert, caffeine, and a hint of nostalgia all in one chilled cup. Think buttery, rich, holiday sugar cookies and aromatic espresso whipped up into a refreshing iced latte. This dreamy, dairy-free drink marries the comfort of warm cookies to a chilly espresso sip, only to take it up a notch with the satisfying almond milk foam and sprinkled sugar topping—the perfect blend of sweetness, coffee kick, and creamy finish.
15. Pistachio Cream Cold Brew
Let’s dive into the world of deluxe coffee beverages with the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. This isn’t your average cold brew order; laced with rich, toasted pistachio syrup and completed with a generous swirl of frothy salted vanilla sweet cream cold foam, it’s designed for a full sensory experience. The delicate pistachio notes intermingling with the vibrant taste of cold brew creates a balanced, exotic, and luxuriously creamy coffee endeavor – a hidden gem in Starbucks’ catalog.
16. Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew
Unleash the inner indulgence with the Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew, a Starbucks sensation that piques curiosity and wows the palate! This delight is an alluring twist to your usual cold brew, courtesy of the velvety golden foam, derived from combining cream and honey, giving just the right hint of sweetness to balance out the robust brew. Each component of the drink is meticulously crafted to produce a layered taste adventure, keeping you intrigued from the first sip until the last.
17. Cinnamon Caramel Cream Nitro Cold Brew
Feel the festive spirit any day of the year with the Cinnamon Caramel Cream Nitro Cold Brew. This refreshing drink captures the epitome of decadence, merging the potent nitro cold brew with luxurious cinnamon-infused caramel cream. The layers of flavor meld in a creamy, ethereal gust of caffeine, sweet caramel, and spicy cinnamon, bringing autumn-like comfort to even the most sweltering of days. It’s not just the drink’s taste but the extraordinary texture that’s unforgettable, creating a multi-sensory coffee experience that keeps you coming back for more.
18. Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
Fall in a cup? Say hello to the Starbucks classic: Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte. The much-anticipated PSL takes on a cool twist, making it ideal for those warm fall days when you’re craving some seasonal flavors but also need a blissful icy refreshment. This iced latte is a symphony of rich espresso, creamy milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and of course, pumpkin puree—creating a symphony of flavors designed to capture the rustic essence of fall in a frothy, chilled beverage.
19. Iced Oatmilk Honey Latte
Next in line is the Iced Oatmilk Honey Latte, a vegan dream come true! This drink is crafted by combing an espresso shot, with honey and creamy oat milk over ice, creating a refreshing and nutrient-packed blend. The subtly sweet honey perfectly complements the rich espresso and oat milk, creating a balanced and delicious chilled beverage that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
20. Iced Blonde Americano
Fancy a lighter yet bold iced coffee option? The Iced Blonde Americano is your answer. It’s made using Starbucks’ signature Blonde Espresso, giving it a slightly sweeter and lighter flavor than a traditional Americano but still packing a satisfying caffeine punch! The drink marries the espresso with cool water and ice, creating a tall, refreshing iced coffee that’s both smooth and bold, perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
21. Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White
Now, let’s take a stroll through the mild side of Starbucks with the Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White. This latte-style drink boasts a slightly different recipe than most. It pairs their signature blonde espresso with a drizzle of honey, and then tops it with almond milk and ice, providing a satisfying sweetness and subtle nutty undertones. Each sip brings creamy, sweet and espresso notes together in beautiful harmony. It’s an ideal pick if you prefer something dairy-free and not overtly sweet.
22. Iced Caramel Macchiato
The Iced Caramel Macchiato has an appealing presentation that is sure to make your Instagram feed pop while tantalizing your taste buds. This layered caffeinated confection features chilled milk at the bottom, a middle topping layer of full-bodied espresso, finished with luscious caramel drizzle on top. The end result is a balanced between sweet and strong coffee flavors that’s refreshing yet indulgent.
23. Iced White Chocolate Mocha
Last but not the least, the Iced White Chocolate Mocha is another beautiful concoction that boasts an intricate combination of flavors. Starbucks’ signature espresso meets white chocolate and milk to create a creamy, sweet and utterly indulgent iced coffee drink. Finished with a delicate layer of whipped cream and a sprinkling of white chocolate flakes, this chilled coffee drink is pure dessert in a cup, delightful to your senses. A perfect choice if you’re game for some decadent treat.
Why Starbucks Iced Coffee Drinks are So Popular?
The popularity of the iced coffee drinks at Starbucks worldwide is undeniably impressive, leaving many wondering exactly what makes these beverages such a hit. It’s a culmination of a few factors – captivating flavors, the quality of the ingredients, and the creativity that goes into each drink.
Firstly, Starbucks strives to strike the right chord with its consumers by constantly reinventing its beverages to offer a swarm of diverse, innovative iced coffee drinks. Whether it’s the rich Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew or the slightly exotic Pistachio Cream Cold Brew, the variety is another major attraction. The inclusion of these unique combinations epitomizes Starbucks’ dexterity in offering a flavor palette that can cater to a vast array of caffeine lovers.
Secondly, Starbucks has never compromised on the quality of its ingredients. From the freshly restrained espresso base to the proprietary syrups and sauces used, you can certainly taste the difference. This commitment to quality is another aspect where Starbucks has an undeniable drawing power.
Lastly, Starbucks has paved the way for coffee enthusiasts to embark on a gastronomical journey with its trendsetting beverages. Overflowing with creativity, Starbucks’ iced coffee drinks are not just quench-thirsting beverages, they represent a lifestyle. In short, the universal popularity of Starbucks’ iced coffee drinks is attributed to a harmonious blend of invigorating flavors, superior quality, and persistent innovation.
How to Order Custom Iced Coffee Drinks at Starbucks?
Entering a Starbucks store can sometimes be intimidating, especially if you’re unaware of the myriad customizable options available. Ordering your coffee does not need to be a standardized process – with the right knowledge, you can make your Starbucks iced coffee drink entirely your own.
As a first step, familiarize yourself with the Starbucks menu. Many people do not know this, but you can visit Starbucks’ website for a complete rundown of their beverages and the options for customization, which gives a thorough understanding of what to expect.
Secondly, when you order, be clear and specific about your requirements – don’t hesitate to nurture your creative barista flair! Desire a stronger coffee? Ask for an additional shot of espresso. Craving a dairy alternative? Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk without a second thought. You can even ask for the amount of ice, syrups, or the type of sweeteners!
Another hack is to be familiar with the Starbucks Secret Menu – yes, this is a thing! This unofficial menu includes unique and delicious drinks that are mostly customer-created. While these are not part of the official Starbucks menu, many locations will make them upon request.
Also Read: Best Starbucks Caramel Drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Starbucks have dairy-free iced coffee options?
Absolutely! Starbucks offers a variety of dairy-free options made with almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk, like the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Espresso.
Can I customize my iced coffee drinks at Starbucks?
Yes, Starbucks allows customers to fully customize their beverages. You can choose from a variety of milk or milk alternatives, adjust the amount of sweetness, and even add extra shots of espresso to your drink.
I love my coffee sweet. Which iced coffee drink should I try at Starbucks?
If you have a sweet tooth, the Double Chocolaty Chip Crème Frappuccino or the Caramel Frappuccino would be a great choice. For a less indulgent yet sweet option, the Iced Vanilla Latte is a treat.
Do Starbucks’ iced coffee drinks come in decaf versions?
Most Starbucks drinks can be made decaf by request, including their signature iced coffee drinks.
Which Starbucks iced coffee drink is the least calorific?
The standard iced coffee and Iced Blonde Americano are relatively low in calories if ordered without any additions. However, you can lower the calorie content of any drink by asking for less sugar or choosing a low-fat or non-dairy milk.
Are there seasonal iced coffee drinks at Starbucks?
Yes, Starbucks often offers special seasonal drinks. The Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte is a favorite fall drink, for example.
What’s the difference between Iced Coffee and Cold Brew at Starbucks?
The main difference lies in the brewing process. Iced coffee is brewed double strength then chilled, which creates a lighter and more nuanced flavor, while cold brew is steeped in cool water for 20 hours, resulting in a smoother and richer flavor.
How much caffeine is typically in a Starbucks iced coffee drink?
The caffeine content can vary depending on the drink, but generally, a Grande size iced coffee drink at Starbucks can contain between 120 to 165 milligrams of caffeine. For a more accurate answer based on specific beverages, it’s best to check the Starbucks website or ask a barista.
Conclusion
After exploring this wide array of Starbucks’ icy treats, it’s clear why these drinks have become a daily indulgence for many of us. From the toasty notes of a plain Iced Coffee to the winsome sips of a Reserve Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte, there’s something unique for every palate. And let’s not forget the seasonal favorites, which add a touch of celebration to our usual coffee runs. Also, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, Starbucks makes sure to get you covered with options such as the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso or Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte.
Whichever drink you decide to grab next time you’re at Starbucks, remember, it’s not just about the iced coffee; it’s the experience — the anticipation as you wait in line, the chill of the cup against your palm, the first sip, and the last. Keep exploring, keep enjoying, because as we all know, variety is the spice of life – and particularly the life of a coffee-lover! It’s been a joy taking this journey through the best iced coffee drinks at Starbucks with you. Stay cool and stay caffeinated!