Popular Starbucks Iced Coffee Drinks: 14 BEST Starbucks Drinks
Just because the weather warms up as spring and summer come around, doesn’t mean we go without our beloved coffee. While a piping hot cup of brew isn’t ideal on a hot summer day, sipping on a refreshing cold brew or an iced coffee can be absolute perfection.
As these warmer seasons come around, Lifeboost offers our most popular Medium Roast coffee in a cold brew option. We also offer recipes on how to create delicious iced coffee options, such as the most popular Iced Mocha, to curb those summer cravings.
But, if you are walking around town and enjoying the beautiful sunshine and looking to treat yourself a little, or have that craving for a caffeine boost, Starbucks also offers a wide variety of iced coffee drinks. With an overwhelming menu, we thought it might be easier for us to put together a list of some of Starbucks’ enjoyable, iced, cheat-day treats for you.
14 Most Popular Starbucks Iced Coffee Drinks
Nothing is more refreshing than showing off a tasty, iced coffee beverage on your Instagram feed. But with so many options to choose from at places like Starbucks, it can be tough to decide which one to try first. Here are my top picks (in no particular order of preference) that you won't want to miss out on:
Traditional Iced Coffee
If you're overwhelmed by the vast array of Starbucks drinks with 10+ ingredients, there's no need to stress; sometimes, a classic cup of freshly brewed coffee is all you need.
On sweltering summer days, nothing is more refreshing than serving this smooth and light-bodied beverage over ice. It has just a hint of bitterness to tantalize your taste buds for the ultimate refreshment.
And if you'd like your iced coffee creamier? Just add milk. If you want to make your beverage even more enjoyable, ask for a drizzle of honey or sugar, or add a pump of classic sweetness. Enjoy this simple, yet great refreshment drink however suits your fancy.
Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee from Starbucks is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy their favorite caffeinated beverage's smooth, slightly bitter flavor without feeling overwhelmed.
Its 20 hours of brewing process ensures that every cup is handcrafted in small batches and contains just enough caffeine for an energy boost without consuming more than you should.
Additionally, this drink can be customized with creamers or syrups if desired - making it even better suited to individual tastes.
The exquisite taste and just enough caffeine content of Starbucks cold brew coffee make it an ideal choice for those who want to satisfy their cravings while keeping it light.
Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
You might think this unlikely combination is a bit strange, but I would urge you to try it before passing judgment. Frankly speaking, the salted caramel and cold brew combo sounded completely out of the ordinary. Little did I know that they were actually destined for each other.
Although I anticipated an extremely salty drink, the salt simply gave more balance to its flavor profile. If you don't enjoy overly saccharine coffee drinks in general, then be sure to give this one a shot – trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.
Nitro Cold Brew
When I first tried nitro cold brew, I was amazed by the incredible fusion of beer and coffee. Whoever thought to inject nitrogen into a cup of cold brew must be an absolute genius. Not only does this little trick give it a fuller body and velvety foam that reminds you of Guinness, but it also has an incredibly unique taste experience like nothing else.
This beverage not only adds a subtle sweetness without any sugar, but it has an incredibly low-calorie count of 5 calories per serving.
This cold brew is incredibly caffeinated–one grande cup contains a whopping 280 milligrams. That's nearly the daily advised intake for a healthy adult.
Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew
This drink is a perfect choice if you're looking for a sweet yet energizing cup of coffee. A variation on cold brew, it offers an intense flavor balanced with creamy vanilla sweetness.
You'd be surprised to learn that each grande contains an impressive 265 milligrams of caffeine - making it ideal for those who need a pick-me-up but still want something tasty and enjoyable.
This cold brew blends milk and a tantalizing splash of vanilla syrup for added sweetness yet remains delicious with only 70 calories - less than you'd find in just two pieces of Kit Kat.
Iced Caffe Latte
For those who enjoy milk-based coffee drinks, an iced latte is the perfect classic selection to beat the heat.
I love Starbucks' take on this beverage because they use blonde espresso for their lattes. Blonde espresso has a light roast, making it softer and sweeter than dark roasts often used in traditional espresso beverages.
This roast truly comes to life when served with milk - Starbucks offers an iced latte made from 2% milk that creates the perfect creamy foam. Even if you don't consume dairy, plenty of plant-based options will still make for a delightful experience.
Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte
If you are looking for a delicious twist on your run-of-the-mill iced latte, give the Vanilla Iced Latte a try. It is incredibly simple to make - just an espresso shot of blonde and some vanilla extract poured over ice - and it also offers a smooth taste and creamy texture that's sure to please. Spice up your coffee game with this refreshing summer beverage.
It has a velvety smooth, vanilla-tinged beverage that will please your taste buds. While this Starbucks drink is slightly more calorie-dense than other lattes due to the milk and syrup combination, it also packs an unparalleled flavor experience. So, it's the perfect way to satiate your coffee and sweet tooth cravings in one decadent cup.
Iced Americano
Enjoy the refreshing and mellow flavors of iced Americano during those hot summer days. Though it's an enjoyable beverage to sip on, be mindful that a single grande cup of this caffeinated drink contains more than your recommended daily caffeine intake - so it is best not to enjoy one in the evening.
The Americano consists of just two ingredients - espresso and hot water – making it one of the more straightforward drinks on Starbucks' menu. The result is a smooth and robust cup with slight notes of smokiness that make for an incredibly pleasant drinking experience.
Though not as well-known as other espresso beverages, this one packs a punch with its refreshing flavors - and it's surprisingly low in calories. A single cup of iced Americano has only five calories, making it the perfect guilt-free treat.
Iced Caffe Mocha
If you are looking for a sweet and indulgent beverage that can give you an energy boost, try Iced Caffè Mocha from Starbucks.
It is a creamy drink made with mocha sauce to create its milkshake-like texture and sweetness, topped off with whipped cream drizzled in vanilla syrup. While it may be a heavenly taste experience, keep in mind this decadent treat contains as many calories as eating one slice of chocolate cake - making it more suitable for morning or afternoon pick-me-up rather than evening snacking.
The grande-sized drink is around 270 calories - but it contains an impressive 140 milligrams of caffeine, which is more than half of the recommended daily intake.
Iced White Chocolate Mocha
This one is definitely up your alley if you have an insatiable appetite for a sweet coffee drink.
The smooth and creamy beverage is the perfect amalgamation of milkiness and chocolatey goodness with every sip; it's even topped off with whipped cream to ensure that sugar content skyrockets.
And if all of that sweetness wasn't enough - just a single pump of vanilla syrup infuses each cup with added marshmallow flavor.
However, indulge in caution as this concoction packs many calories - more than those contained in McDonald's cheeseburgers. So, it's best to enjoy this one in moderation.
Iced Flat White
Iced Flat White requires a special brewing process - so it's no wonder that this drink has won the hearts of coffee connoisseurs everywhere.
It is made with two ristretto shots and milk, which are then poured over ice for a smooth texture and creamy finish. The result is an espresso-forward beverage with a slight sweetness and a refreshing aftertaste.
For coffee lovers, an Iced flat white is an indulgent treat that's sure to put some pep in your step. This creamy espresso-based beverage with its velvety foam layer was virtually unheard of in America 10 years ago.
A shot of ristretto enveloped by milk creates a bold flavor experience - perfect for sipping alongside breakfast and providing you with just enough caffeine to kickstart your day.
The Iced Flat White is low in calories and sugar content, making it the perfect treat for those wanting to indulge without going overboard. It's also loaded with antioxidants and natural caffeine that will give you an energy boost without the crash.
So whether you're an experienced barista or are just starting to dip your toes in the coffee world, a flat white is the perfect addition to any morning routine.
Iced Shaken Espresso
This stunningly simple drink is just what you need to jumpstart your day. Iced Shaken Espresso from Starbucks consists of two shots of espresso shaken over ice and a splash of milk for smoothness.
The double shot of espresso gives the beverage a robust flavor with underlying sweet notes - while keeping it low in calories, sugar, and fat for a guilt-free indulgence. When you need a refreshing and energizing drink, turn to the classic iced espresso.
This is the perfect choice for those looking for an easy way to get a delicious caffeine kick without any extra frills. And since it takes less than a minute to make, you can enjoy it any day of the week.
Iced Honey Almond Flat White
If you're looking for a more subtle, nutty flavor to your iced flat white, try ordering the honey almond version.
This delightful drink is made even more flavorful with the addition of a hint of almond milk and honey, creating an exquisite balance between sweet and nutty. To take it up another level, ask for an extra shot of your favorite syrup to give this beverage added depth in taste.
This coffee beverage, crafted with almond milk instead of dairy, makes a perfect choice for those on a dairy-free diet. Honey almond flat white also contains antioxidants, proteins, healthy fats, and other nutrients, making it a healthier alternative to classic coffee drinks.
Unlike its predecessor, this drink is low in calories and sugar content - so you can enjoy your morning pick-me-up without feeling guilty.
Iced Caramel Macchiato
If you're looking for a delightfully sweet treat, look no further than an Iced Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks. This concoction of espresso, milk, caramel sauce, and vanilla syrup served over ice is the ultimate sugar rush in liquid form.
The mellow, smooth flavor of espresso and milk is perfectly intertwined with the addition of three pumps of vanilla syrup. To top it all off, a drizzle of luxurious caramel sauce creates an indulgent dessert-like beverage that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Although the boldness of the iced caramel macchiato may not be immediately noticeable, it is still present. This delicious beverage will give you a much-needed energy boost to start your day and will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
Unique Ways to Customize Your Starbucks Iced Coffee
Don't see anything to your liking on the menu? That's okay. Just because it isn't listed doesn't mean you can still get exactly what you crave.
On your next trip to the coffee shop, consider asking your barista to try any of these options instead.
- Opt for an alternative sweetener to add a unique flavor and texture.
- Opt for the unsweetened version to get a healthier and more natural option.
- Vary the amount of syrup pumps to your preference
- Reduce the amount of ice for a refreshingly flavorful experience.
- Supercharge your coffee experience with another shot of espresso.
- Switch to a type of milk that's healthier and more nutritious.
You'd be astonished to see how the tiniest touches can reinvent a drink entirely. By making this simple change, you can reap numerous benefits and improve your diet.
Final Thoughts
Why not try something new and exciting for your next trip to Starbucks? A chilled iced americano or cold brew is an excellent choice for coffee lovers wanting a strong yet bitter taste. For those that prefer something sweeter, the deliciously rich Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Brew or Iced White Chocolate Mocha are delightful treats.
Whichever coffee you decide to order, don't be afraid to experiment with alternative milk and sweeteners. By customizing your own Starbucks iced coffee, you can create a beverage that's authentic to your tastes and preferences.
Even better? Starbucks offers their recipes online which means you can take these cheat-day favorites and customize them at home with your healthier, low acid Lifeboost coffee.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is the difference between an iced latte and an iced coffee?
The primary difference between an iced latte and an iced coffee lies in the type of milk used. An iced latte typically uses steamed milk whereas an iced coffee does not. Additionally, most people will choose to add flavorings such as syrups or other sweetener when making an iced latte, but this is often not done for an iced coffee. Finally, the texture of both drinks may differ; a latte typically has more foam and creaminess whereas a plain iced coffee will be smoother.
Is it bad to drink Starbucks Iced Coffee every day?
Relying heavily on any one type of coffee drink every day is not recommended. While Starbucks iced coffees are usually low in calories and sugar, it's important to remember that they can still contain caffeine and other additives. This can lead to dehydration or other health problems if consumed too frequently. Additionally, regularly drinking Starbucks Iced Coffee may mean you’re missing out on the great variety of drinks offered at cafes and restaurants that may be healthier or tastier alternatives.
What is the difference between an iced latte and an iced coffee?
The primary difference between an iced latte and an iced coffee lies in the type of milk used. An iced latte typically uses steamed milk while an iced coffee does not. Additionally, people usually add flavorings such as syrups or other sweeteners when making a latte, but this is often not done for an iced coffee. Finally, the texture of both drinks may differ; a latte typically has more foam and creaminess whereas a plain iced coffee will be smoother.
Are there any health benefits to drinking Starbucks Iced Coffee?
Yes! Drinking iced coffee can provide a host of benefits for your overall health. Cold brewed coffees have higher concentrations of antioxidants which can help protect against disease and boost immunity. By adding low fat milk or alternative milks such as almond or coconut, you can enjoy the additional calcium and protein provided by these nutrient-rich sources.
Check out Lifeboost Coffee Expresso Roast.
References:
- https://fluentincoffee.com/starbucks-iced-coffee-drinks/
- https://www.shopfood.com/restaurants/starbucks-iced-coffee-drinks/
- https://restaurantclicks.com/best-starbucks-iced-drinks/
- https://www.tastingtable.com/777274/the-absolute-best-starbucks-iced-coffee-drinks-ranked/
- https://www.thrillist.com/drink/nation/best-coffee-drinks-starbucks-menu