Starbucks Holiday Menu 2025: Ranking the Best Drinks & Treats

Jagatpati Halder

TL;DR: The Starbucks holiday menu 2025 launched November 6 with fan favorites like Peppermint Mocha and Caramel Brulée Latte, plus the return of Eggnog Latte on December 2. After tasting every item, the Caramel Brulée Latte ranks as the best Starbucks holiday drink 2025 for its perfect balance of sweet and strong flavors. The Iced Gingerbread Chai and Cranberry Bliss Bar top the non-coffee and treat categories. Prices range from $5.95-$6.95 for drinks, with calories spanning 150-440 per grande. New additions include Gingerbread Latte, Polar Bear Cake Pop, and holiday-flavored protein cold foams with 15g protein each.

The Starbucks Tradition We Wait for All Year

Every November, coffee lovers worldwide experience the same collective thrill: the return of Starbucks red cups. That first glimpse of crimson cardboard signals more than just a seasonal beverage launch—it marks the unofficial start of the holiday season, triggering nostalgic memories of past celebrations and warm gatherings.

The 2025 Starbucks holiday drinks officially launched on November 6, creating the kind of global excitement typically reserved for major product releases. Social media explodes with photos of festive drinks, dedicated fans count down the days, and the phrase “Red Cup Day” trends across platforms.

What makes the Starbucks holiday menu 2025 particularly special? This year’s lineup perfectly balances beloved classics with innovative newcomers, offering something for every palate—from the peppermint-obsessed to those craving rich, nutty flavors. The menu also introduces game-changing additions like protein-boosted cold foams and the long-awaited return of the Eggnog Latte after a four-year absence.

Whether you’re a Peppermint Mocha purist or adventurous enough to try every new creation, understanding what’s worth your money (and calories) helps you make the most of this limited-time celebration. This comprehensive ranking cuts through the hype to reveal which drinks and treats deserve a spot in your holiday routine.

What’s New on the Starbucks Holiday Menu 2025?

The Starbucks Christmas drinks 2025 collection represents the brand’s most comprehensive seasonal offering yet, combining tradition with exciting innovation.

New Drinks & Customizations

Gingerbread Latte (New): After years of discontinuation, the gingerbread flavor returns as an official menu item, blending warm gingerbread spices with Starbucks Blonde Espresso and steamed milk. This revival addresses countless customer requests for the cozy, spiced flavor that defined early 2000s holiday seasons.

Eggnog Latte (Returning December 2): First introduced in 1986 as Starbucks’ first-ever handcrafted holiday drink, the Eggnog Latte makes its triumphant return after leaving menus in 2021. Made with Signature Espresso and real eggnog, it delivers authentic holiday flavor with that distinctive creamy richness.

Chestnut Praline Latte (Returning December 2): This nutty holiday favorite returns alongside the Eggnog Latte, featuring espresso, steamed milk, and chestnut praline syrup topped with praline crumbles.

Holiday Cold Foams with Protein: The game-changer for health-conscious customers. All holiday cold foams can be made with protein, delivering approximately 15 grams of extra protein in a grande. Available flavors include:

Iced Sugar Cookie Breve: Previously a popular customization, now an official menu item featuring velvety half-and-half for extra richness.

New Holiday Treats

Polar Bear Cake Pop: An adorable addition to the cake pop family, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos and kid-friendly snacking.

Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread: Warm and flaky croissant pieces sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar, nestled together and topped with crunchy streusel to pull apart one bite at a time. Unlike other seasonal items, this treat stays year-round.

DIY Starbucks Holiday Magic: Make the 2025 Christmas Drinks at Home

Returning Favorites

Drinks:

Treats:

Cup Designs 2025

This year’s designs are inspired by the iconic green and red aprons worn by baristas, bringing festive ribbons, cozy coffeehouse textures, and nostalgic plaid patterns to life. Four designs feature “Merry Apron Strings” and “Coffeehouse Plaid” patterns in both red and green variations.

Starbucks Christmas menu 2025 – festive drinks ranked and reviewed

Ranking the Best Starbucks Holiday Drinks 2025 (Top 10)

After extensive taste-testing and analysis of multiple professional reviews, here’s the definitive ranking of the best Starbucks Christmas drinks 2025:

#1: Caramel Brulée Latte ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Taste: Rich caramelized sweetness meets bold espresso with a toasted, almost smoky caramel brulée sauce. The whipped cream and caramel brulée topping add textural interest and visual appeal.

Sweetness Level: Medium-high (410 calories in a grande)

Holiday Vibe: Cozy, elegant, dessert-like without being overwhelming

Who Will Love It: Caramel enthusiasts, those who want festive flavors without chocolate or mint, and anyone seeking that “warm fireplace” feeling

Why It Ranks #1: Multiple taste tests crowned this the winner. One tester noted it tastes like butterscotch candies your grandma has, and the balance of sweet and strong was perfect. Even non-caramel fans were shocked by how much they enjoyed its honeyed, almost smoky nuance. It’s sophisticated enough for adult palates while delivering on holiday nostalgia.

Verdict: 9.5/10 – The undisputed champion of 2025. Order it hot for maximum coziness.

#2: Peppermint Mocha ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Taste: Classic chocolate mocha enriched with refreshing peppermint syrup, topped with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls. The flavor balance is near-perfect—minty without being toothpaste-like, chocolatey without being overpowering.

Sweetness Level: High (440 calories in a grande—the highest on the menu)

Holiday Vibe: Quintessentially Christmas, nostalgic, universally festive

Who Will Love It: Peppermint bark fans, chocolate lovers, and anyone who wants the most recognizable holiday drink

Why It Ranks #2: Pure nostalgia drives this drink’s enduring popularity—taking a sip of a Peppermint Mocha in a Starbucks holiday cup makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Available for over 20 years, it’s become synonymous with Starbucks Christmas. However, it loses the top spot due to being slightly too sweet for some and available as a simple customization year-round.

Verdict: 9.3/10 – A must-have at least once per season. Try the Frappuccino version for a frozen treat.

#3: Iced Gingerbread Chai ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Taste: Warm chai spices meet sweet gingerbread cold foam with a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. The combination creates a perfectly balanced spicy-sweet profile that’s complex and satisfying.

Sweetness Level: Medium (320 calories in a grande)

Holiday Vibe: Cozy but refreshing, perfect for those who want festive without heavy

Who Will Love It: Chai lovers, non-coffee drinkers seeking holiday options, anyone who wants gingerbread flavor without espresso

Why It Ranks #3: The bitter, earthy black tea base plays beautifully with the spiced, nutmeg-kissed notes of the cold foam, creating a drink that tastes downright Christmas-y. It’s the best non-coffee holiday option and offers dairy-free cold foam, making it accessible to more dietary preferences.

Verdict: 9.0/10 – The sleeper hit of 2025. Surprisingly addictive.

#4: Chestnut Praline Latte (Available December 2) ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Taste: Nutty, toasted chestnut flavor with caramelized praline notes and a subtle spice blend. Topped with praline crumbles that add a delightful crunch.

Sweetness Level: Medium (330 calories in a grande)

Holiday Vibe: Sophisticated, cozy, European-inspired elegance

Who Will Love It: Those seeking understated festivity, nut lovers, and anyone tired of overly sweet holiday drinks

Why It Ranks #4: This is the sleeper hit that doesn’t shout for attention—it’s nutty, toasty, and comforting without being overly sweet, with praline crumbs adding subtle crunch. It’s refined enough to feel adult while still delivering on holiday cheer.

Verdict: 8.8/10 – The thinking person’s holiday drink. Order it before it disappears.

Taste: Sweet sugar cookie syrup with Starbucks Blonde Espresso and milk, topped with festive red and green sprinkles. Tastes exactly like Christmas cookie icing.

Sweetness Level: Medium-high (150-180 calories depending on milk choice—lowest calorie option)

Holiday Vibe: Playful, youthful, Instagram-worthy with those sprinkles

Who Will Love It: Sweet-tooths, cookie-dough lovers, anyone who enjoys dessert-flavored coffee

Why It Ranks #5: This nostalgic drink channels the flavor of a freshly baked treat and can be enjoyed hot or iced. The sprinkles add visual appeal and a subtle textural element. It ranks here because, while delicious, the flavor can read as artificial to some palates.

Pro Tip: Order with oat milk instead of almond milk for a richer, creamier experience.

Verdict: 8.5/10 – Fun and festive, perfect for lighter calorie-conscious choices.

#6: Gingerbread Latte (New) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Taste: Warm gingerbread spices blended with Blonde Espresso and steamed milk. Delivers authentic gingerbread cookie flavor with cinnamon, ginger, and molasses notes.

Sweetness Level: Medium (estimated 320-350 calories)

Holiday Vibe: Cozy, classic, reminiscent of holiday baking

Who Will Love It: Gingerbread house builders, those wanting coffee with their holiday spice, and fans of traditional flavors

Why It Ranks #6: Back in 2000, the gingerbread latte became an annual cornerstone of Starbucks’ holiday menu before its discontinuation. Its return is welcomed, though it competes with the superior Gingerbread Chai. Still, coffee lovers will appreciate having this option.

Verdict: 8.3/10 – Solid comeback. Great for gingerbread purists who need their espresso.

#7: Eggnog Latte (Available December 2) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Taste: Rich, creamy eggnog blended with Signature Espresso. Delivers authentic holiday eggnog flavor with a coffee boost.

Sweetness Level: High (estimated 400+ calories)

Holiday Vibe: Traditional, indulgent, reminiscent of family gatherings

Who Will Love It: Eggnog devotees, those who’ve waited four years for its return, anyone seeking maximum holiday richness

Why It Ranks #7: Having tasted it early, one reviewer confirmed it’s worth the hype—while not spiked, the eggnog flavor comes through with a kick, offering a cozy Christmas feeling. However, due to the presence of half-and-half in the eggnog, it cannot be made dairy-free, limiting its appeal. The richness also means it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily drink.

Verdict: 8.0/10 – Welcome back! Best enjoyed hot and slowly.

Taste: The Sugar Cookie Latte is elevated with half-and-half instead of regular milk, creating an ultra-rich, buttery, creamy experience.

Sweetness Level: Very high (estimated 350+ calories)

Holiday Vibe: Decadent, indulgent, dessert-replacement level

Who Will Love It: Those who found the regular Sugar Cookie Latte too light, cream lovers, and anyone treating themselves to maximum indulgence

Why It Ranks #8: Made with velvety half-and-half, it creates a rich and creamy twist on the holiday favorite. It’s delicious but ranks lower because the extreme richness makes it difficult to finish, and the high calorie count limits repeat purchases.

Verdict: 7.8/10 – Try it once for the experience, but you might not finish.

#9: Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino ⭐⭐⭐½

Taste: All the flavor of the hot Peppermint Mocha in a blended, frozen format with ice, chocolate, and peppermint.

Sweetness Level: Very high (440 calories)

Holiday Vibe: Fun, youthful, nostalgic for high school Starbucks runs

Who Will Love It: Frappuccino fans, those who drink iced even in winter, and anyone wanting dessert more than coffee

Why It Ranks #9: A holiday Frappuccino is going to do it every time for nostalgic reasons. However, it ranks lower because frozen drinks in winter feel counterintuitive to many, and the blended format dilutes the sophisticated flavors that shine in the hot version.

Verdict: 7.5/10 – Nostalgic fun, but the hot version is superior.

#10: Caramel Brulée Frappuccino ⭐⭐⭐

Taste: Frozen caramel brulée with espresso, blended with ice and milk, topped with whipped cream and caramel brulée topping.

Sweetness Level: Extremely high (estimated 450+ calories)

Holiday Vibe: Dessert in a cup, more ice cream than coffee

Who Will Love It: Sweet treat seekers, those who want caramel flavor without heat, Frappuccino devotees

Why It Ranks #10: While the hot Caramel Brulée Latte ranks #1, the Frappuccino version doesn’t translate as well. The blended format requires proper mixing, or you’ll encounter chalky texture and improper ratios of syrup. The extreme sweetness becomes overwhelming when consumed cold and quickly.

Verdict: 7.0/10 – Stick with the hot version unless you’re truly a Frappuccino die-hard.

The Flavor of Christmas in a Cup: What Starbucks’ 2025 Holiday Menu Says About Us

Ranking the Best Starbucks Holiday Treats 2025

#1: Cranberry Bliss Bar ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Description: White chocolate and cranberry blondie topped with cream cheese frosting and dried cranberries.

Calories: 320 calories | Price: ~$4.25

Why It’s #1: A holiday favorite since 1997, it features a sweet, tart, and creamy combination of cranberries, cream cheese frosting, and white chocolate. Nearly three decades of perfecting the recipe show—the balance of sweet and tart is impeccable.

Verdict: 9.5/10 – The gold standard of Starbucks treats.

Description: Sugar cookie shaped like an adorable snowman with icing details.

Calories: ~350 calories | Price: ~$3.45

Why It’s #2: Became a viral sensation in 2024 for its Instagram-perfect appearance and surprisingly delicious buttery sugar cookie taste. It’s not just cute—it actually tastes amazing.

Verdict: 9.0/10 – Social media gold that delivers on flavor.

#3: Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread (New) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Description: Flaky croissant pieces with cinnamon-sugar and crunchy streusel topping.

Calories: ~400 calories | Price: ~$4.45

Why It’s #3: The interactive pull-apart format makes it fun to eat, and the combination of buttery croissant, cinnamon sweetness, and streusel crunch creates addictive texture contrast. Best enjoyed warm.

Verdict: 8.8/10 – Available year-round, so no rush, but definitely try it.

#4: Sugar Plum Cheese Danish ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Description: Buttery Danish pastry filled with cream cheese and sugar plum filling.

Calories: ~370 calories | Price: ~$4.25

Why It’s #4: The sugar plum flavor feels genuinely unique and seasonal, and the cream cheese filling adds luxurious richness. Perfect with a hot latte.

Verdict: 8.5/10 – Sophisticated pastry lovers, this one’s for you.

#5: Polar Bear Cake Pop (New) ⭐⭐⭐½

Description: Vanilla cake mixed with frosting, dipped in white chocolate, and decorated as an adorable polar bear.

Calories: ~170 calories | Price: ~$2.95

Why It’s #5: Cute, portion-controlled, and kid-friendly. The vanilla flavor is classic and universally appealing, though not groundbreaking.

Verdict: 8.0/10 – Great for kids or a lighter sweet treat.

Best Non-Coffee Holiday Drinks for 2025

Not everyone wants espresso with their holiday cheer. Here are the top caffeine-free and low-caffeine options:

Best Overall: Iced Gingerbread Chai

Already covered in the main ranking, this chai-based drink delivers maximum holiday flavor with significantly less caffeine than espresso drinks. The gingerbread cold foam makes it feel special.

Best Hot Chocolate Variation: Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Take classic Starbucks hot chocolate and add peppermint syrup for instant holiday magic. Rich, creamy, minty, and perfect for kids and adults alike. Available in any size with any milk option.

Calories: 440 (grande with 2% milk) | Price: ~$4.95

This hidden gem combines warmed apple juice with sweet sugar cookie syrup for a drink that tastes like liquid apple pie. Completely caffeine-free and naturally sweet.

Estimated Calories: 200-250 | Price: ~$3.95

Best Dairy-Free Option: Gingerbread Oatmilk Steamer

Request steamed oat milk with gingerbread syrup (no chai) for a creamy, cozy, completely dairy-free treat that still feels festive.

Estimated Calories: 180-200 | Price: ~$4.45

Best Refreshing Option: Cran-Merry Orange Refresher

While not traditional hot chocolate territory, this cranberry-orange-spice combination offers festive flavors in a light, fruity format. Contains caffeine from green coffee extract, but significantly less than coffee drinks.

Calories: ~120 (grande) | Price: ~$5.45

Best Custom Starbucks Holiday Hacks (2025 Edition)

Secret Menu Creations

The Gingerbread Man Frappuccino:

The Candy Cane Forest:

The Eggnog Chai:

The Sugar Cookie Cloud:

Ways to Reduce Sweetness

  1. Order fewer pumps: Standard grande drinks contain 4 pumps of syrup. Request 2-3 pumps for noticeable sweetness reduction without losing flavor.
  2. Skip the whipped cream: Saves ~100 calories and reduces sweetness, especially on already sweet drinks like Caramel Brulée.
  3. Request light syrup: Baristas can use “light” versions of syrups that cut sweetness by approximately 30%.
  4. Add an extra espresso shot: Balances sweetness with more coffee flavor and increases caffeine. Costs ~$0.90 extra.
  5. Choose Blonde Espresso: Naturally sweeter and milder than Signature Espresso, requiring less syrup to taste good.
Behind the Red Cup: How Starbucks Crafts the Magic of the Holidays

How to Make Drinks “Extra Festive”

  1. Double the cold foam: Request extra cold foam for more visual appeal and flavor layering.
  2. Mix hot and iced elements: Order a hot latte with cold foam on top for temperature contrast.
  3. Add holiday sprinkles: Request red and green sprinkles on any drink with whipped cream or cold foam.
  4. Request cinnamon dolce topping: Free topping that adds holiday spice to any drink.
  5. Ask for the cup to be decorated: Baristas can draw holiday designs with syrup inside clear cups before adding your drink.

Price, Calories & Availability (Useful Info)

Price Ranges (2025)

Holiday Drinks:

Holiday Treats:

Add-Ons:

Calorie Ranges (Grande Size)

Lowest Calorie Options:

Highest Calorie Options:

Ways to Reduce Calories:

Limited-Time Availability

Available Now (Since November 6):

Available December 2:

Expected Timeline: The Starbucks holiday menu 2025 typically runs through early January (around January 7-14), though some items may extend into late January. The Eggnog Latte and Chestnut Praline Latte typically have the shortest availability, usually disappearing first.

Regional Menu Differences

United States: Full menu access with all drinks and treats available nationwide.

Starbucks Reserve Locations (Chicago & NYC): Exclusive items, including:

International Markets: While drinks like Peppermint Mocha are served in 80+ markets globally, specific regional variations exist based on local taste preferences and ingredient availability. Check your local Starbucks app for market-specific offerings.

Drive-Thru vs. Café: All items available at all locations, though during peak times, drive-thru may experience temporary stockouts of viral items like the Snowman Cookie or Bearista cup.

Final Verdict: The Ultimate Must-Try Items of Christmas 2025

After tasting, ranking, and analyzing the entire Starbucks Christmas menu 2025, here are the definitive winners:

#1 Drink Overall: Caramel Brulée Latte

The perfect balance of festive sweetness and coffee strength makes this the ultimate holiday drink. It’s sophisticated enough for daily enjoyment without becoming tiresome, delivers authentic caramel flavor, and feels genuinely special. Whether you’re a longtime fan or first-time taster, this drink exemplifies what Starbucks holiday beverages should be.

Order it: Hot, grande size, with whole milk for maximum creaminess. Add an extra espresso shot if you want a more coffee-forward flavor.

#1 Treat Overall: Cranberry Bliss Bar

Nearly 30 years of perfection can’t be wrong. The sweet-tart balance, cream cheese frosting, and festive appearance make this the quintessential Starbucks holiday treat. It pairs beautifully with every drink on the menu and captures the essence of holiday baking without requiring an oven.

Pro tip: Warm it slightly in the microwave (10 seconds) for an even better experience.

At 150 calories and $5.95 for a grande, this drink delivers maximum festivity at minimum calorie cost. The fun sprinkles and genuine sugar cookie flavor make it feel special, while the lighter profile means you can enjoy it more frequently without guilt. Add protein cold foam for just $1.25 to transform it into a surprisingly balanced meal replacement.

Best Aesthetic/Instagram Drink: Iced Gingerbread Chai with Gingerbread Cold Foam

The layered appearance of dark chai topped with creamy gingerbread foam and pumpkin spice sprinkles creates stunning photos. The glass showcases the beautiful color gradient, and the flavor delivers on the visual promise. This drink consistently generates the most social media engagement and looks gorgeous in holiday photos.

Photography tip: Request it in a clear cup and ask for extra pumpkin spice topping for maximum visual impact.

Dark Horse Winner: Chestnut Praline Latte (Available December 2)

While it doesn’t rank #1, multiple taste testers identified this as their personal favorite. It offers sophistication that other holiday drinks lack—nutty, toasted, subtly sweet without being candy-like. For those who find most holiday drinks too sweet or one-dimensional, this provides complexity and elegance. It’s the drink coffee snobs secretly love.

Must-Try New Item: Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread

Among all new additions, this treat delivers the most satisfaction. The interactive format makes eating it fun, the flavor combination hits all the right notes, and unlike seasonal drinks, you can enjoy it year-round. It’s substantial enough to serve as breakfast alongside your morning coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When does Starbucks release the holiday menu 2025?

The Starbucks holiday menu launched November 6, 2025, with a second wave of drinks, including Eggnog Latte and Chestnut Praline Latte, arriving December 2. Red Cup Day occurred on November 13, when customers received free reusable holiday cups with any handcrafted holiday beverage purchase.

What is the best Starbucks Christmas drink?

Based on comprehensive taste testing and multiple professional reviews, the Caramel Brulée Latte ranks as the best Starbucks holiday drink 2025. It offers the perfect balance of sweet and strong flavors, sophisticated taste profile, and genuine holiday warmth without overwhelming sweetness. However, the Peppermint Mocha remains the most nostalgic and iconic choice.

Are the 2025 holiday drinks available worldwide?

The Peppermint Mocha is served in more than 80 markets globally. However, the availability of specific drinks varies by country and region. The core menu (Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Sugar Cookie drinks) typically appears in most major markets, while items like Eggnog Latte may be limited to North America due to ingredient availability and regional preferences. Check your local Starbucks app for market-specific offerings.

Which treatments are returning vs. new?

Returning treats: Snowman Cookie, Cranberry Bliss Bar, Sugar Plum Cheese Danish. New treats: Polar Bear Cake Pop, Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread (staying year-round.) The Cranberry Bliss Bar has been a menu staple since 1997, while the Snowman Cookie became a viral sensation in 2024 and returns by popular demand.

Can I make holiday drinks healthier?

Yes, several modifications reduce calories and sugar:
1. Order with almond milk or skim milk (saves 30-80 calories)
2. Skip whipped cream (saves ~100 calories)
3. Request fewer syrup pumps (2 instead of 4 cut sugar significantly.
4. Choose tall instead of grande (reduces calories by ~30%)
5. Add protein cold foam instead of regular for a nutritional boost
6.The Iced Sugar Cookie Latte is the lowest-calorie espresso-based option at just 150 calories.

How long are Starbucks holiday drinks available?

Holiday drinks typically run through early-to-mid January (approximately January 7-14), though exact dates vary by location and inventory. Items arriving December 2 (Eggnog Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte) usually

Final Thoughts: Starbucks Holiday Menu 2025

The Starbucks Holiday Menu 2025 brings back beloved classics and introduces exciting new festive drinks perfect for the season. From updated gingerbread flavors to rich caramel favorites, this year’s lineup delivers warmth, sweetness, and holiday cheer in every sip. Our top pick—the Caramel Brulée Latte—wins for its perfect festive balance.

Explore more holiday drink tips, recipes, and festive inspiration at QuickQuotes 4U and make the most of this year’s Starbucks Christmas menu. Cheers to a cozy and delicious holiday season

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