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Starbucks’s Holiday Drinks: Ranked Worst to Best

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Holy Cross chapter.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially for coffee lovers! On November 2, Starbucks launched its holiday menu of sweet beverages, and I, for one, was eager to see what their signature specialities are all about. I tried a few of them so you don’t have to, and here is my ranking from least favorite to favorite. 

4) Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte

I had high hopes for this one. When I took a sip, I was expecting to be reminded of the taste of those delicious, soft sugar cookies you buy at the store that everyone loves. Unfortunately, I was met with the strong taste of espresso. You would have thought that with ‘sugar’ in the name that this drink would be sweet, but ironically, I had to add some sugar to it for it to be tolerable. Now, this could have been the fault of my barista, so maybe I should give it another try. Also, one of my friends said it tastes better hot, so maybe that’s where I made my mistake. 

3) Hot Peppermint Mocha

You really can’t go wrong with this one. Mocha is already amazing on its own, but the sweet flavor of peppermint makes for a perfect candycane-like addition. Plus, who doesn’t love whipped cream!

2) Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

I was most excited to try this one because I’m a huge chai girl. This drink did not disappoint: the spice of gingerbread compliments the sweetness of chai so well. Whether you are also a chai enthusiast or just want a new sweet drink, this is a must try!

1) Hot Caramel Brulée Latte

After I discovered the gingerbread chai, I didn’t think it was worth it to even try any of the others. But the other day, while waiting in line to order my new favorite iced drink, I saw this drink on the poster and thought that the taste of warm caramel might be nice. And wow, was I right! This is easily my new favorite drink- it’s the perfect sweet and salty beverage to warm you up in the winter. 10/10.

Make sure to try one- or all- of these drinks before it’s too late!

Madeline Sughrue

Holy Cross '24

Maddie is a Psychology major and Italian studies minor from Winchester, MA. She loves listening to music, traveling, and all things pop culture!