We cover the post-holiday Starbucks winter menu, what's on the menu after the red cups disappear, when the seasonal lineup shifts from peppermint and gingerbread to calmer espresso-forward winter drinks. It's the answer to "what should I order at Starbucks in January and February?"
If you're shopping on a budget, see 10 Starbucks Winter Drinks Under $5 for a price-sorted version of the same season's menu, it overlaps with this guide but ranks drinks by affordability instead of popularity.
When the festive red cups disappear and the holiday flavors wrap up, Starbucks shifts into a calmer, cozier Starbucks winter menu. Unlike the holiday lineup which is full of peppermint, sugar cookie and gingerbread the Starbucks winter drinks focus on warm, comforting flavors and classic espresso-forward creations perfect for cold weather.
If you're wondering what drinks Starbucks offers in winter, here's a complete guide.
What Are Starbucks Winter Drinks?
Starbucks winter drinks are beverages people like after the holiday season ends, usually from early January through mid-February.
These drinks are:
- Less sweet and less festive
- More coffee-focused
- Cozy, simple and warm
- Designed for cold-weather sipping
- Often include new espresso drinks or seasonal variations
They're the perfect reset after weeks of holiday sugar-heavy drinks.
Popular Starbucks Winter Drinks
Explore popular Starbucks winter drinks, packed with warm and comforting drinks for the chilly season.
1. Cortado
A new addition to Starbucks' winter lineup and one of the simplest espresso drinks.
Taste Profile:
- Strong espresso flavor
- Smooth and slightly creamy
- Not sweet at all (no syrups)
- Balanced ratio: 1 part espresso + 1 part steamed milk
Best For:
People who want a bold winter drink without sugar or heavy milk. Perfect for espresso lovers.
Ask for Blonde Espresso if you want a smoother, lighter flavor.
2. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado
A cozy, lightly sweet version of the classic cortado.
Taste Profile:
- Light caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar syrup
- Oatmilk adds creaminess and a toasted flavor
- Still espresso-forward, not a sugary drink
Best For:
People who want a winter drink that's warm and comforting but not overly sweet.
Add cinnamon powder on top for extra warmth.
3. Caramel Macchiato (Hot)
Not seasonal, but extremely popular in winter because of its layered flavor.
Taste Profile:
- Vanilla syrup at the base
- Silky steamed milk
- A strong espresso "mark" on top
- Finished with buttery caramel drizzle
Best For:
People who like balanced drinks are not too sweet, not too strong.
Replace regular espresso with Blonde Espresso for a lighter, creamier taste.
4. Flat White
A winter favorite for those who prefer a smooth espresso drink.
Taste Profile:
- Made with ristretto shots (stronger, sweeter espresso)
- Velvety microfoam (thicker than a latte)
- Rich but not heavy
Best For:
Anyone who wants a creamy, warm drink with a strong espresso base without any syrups.
Try it with whole milk for the richest texture.
5. White Chocolate Mocha (Hot)
A winter classic sweet, creamy, and indulgent.
Taste Profile:
- Sweet white chocolate syrup
- Smooth steamed milk
- Balanced espresso
- Often topped with whipped cream
Best For:
People who like dessert-like drinks but still want espresso.
Ask for half the syrup if you want it slightly less sweet.
6. Caffè Misto
A simple mix of brewed coffee and steamed milk.
Taste Profile:
- Light, mellow coffee
- Warm and comforting
- Less creamy than a latte
Best For:
Anyone who wants a warm winter drink that isn't heavy or sweet.
Use oatmilk for a thicker, richer texture.
7. Chai Latte
A top winter drink globally because of its spice profile.
Taste Profile:
- Black tea infused with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, clove
- Creamy steamed milk
- Naturally sweet and spicy
Best For:
People who want a cozy, non-coffee winter drink with strong spices.
Add 1 pump brown sugar syrup for an even warmer, deeper flavor.
8. Honey Almondmilk Flat White
A light, naturally sweet winter drink.
Taste Profile:
- Light honey sweetness
- Toasty almondmilk
- Ristretto espresso shots add richness
Best For:
People who want a warm but not sugary drink, especially dairy-free customers.
Add extra ristretto shot for more coffee flavor.
9. Mocha (Hot)
Simple, chocolatey and perfect for cold days.
Taste Profile:
- Espresso mixed with chocolate syrup
- Creamy steamed milk
- Tastes like hot chocolate with a coffee kick
Best For:
Anyone who loves hot chocolate but wants caffeine.
Add peppermint syrup if still available at your store (great winter combo).
10. Hot Chocolate (All Variants)
A winter staple for non-coffee drinkers.
Taste Profile:
- Rich cocoa flavor
- Steamed milk
- Optional whipped cream
- Can be customized with syrups
Best For:
Kids, teens, or adults who don't drink coffee but want something warm and cozy.
Ask for salted caramel drizzle.
Looking for Healthier Options?
If you're keeping an eye on calories or just want a lighter drink, many of the tricks that work for fall beverages work just as well with winter drinks.
Choosing almond or oat milk, cutting back on syrup, or skipping whipped cream can make a big difference.
For some tasty, low-calorie ideas, check out these Healthy Starbucks Fall Drinks
Best Starbucks Winter Drinks Customizations
Try these cozy add-ons:
- Add brown sugar syrup to any latte
- Add oatmilk for extra creaminess
- Try blonde espresso for a smoother flavor
- Add a pump of toffee nut (if still available in your region)
- Ask for extra foam for a warmer, creamier texture
Starbucks winter drinks are perfect for people who want warm, comforting beverages without the heavy sweetness of holiday flavors. Whether you want something strong like a cortado or cozy like a chai latte, the winter menu has something for every cold-weather mood.
Winter Drinks Nutrition Table (Grande)
| Drink | Calories | Sugar | Caffeine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pistachio Latte (whole milk) | 380 | 41 g | 150 mg |
| Chestnut Praline Latte | 330 | 36 g | 150 mg |
| Caramel Brulée Latte | 420 | 45 g | 150 mg |
| Peppermint Mocha | 440 | 48 g | 175 mg |
| Toasted White Chocolate Mocha | 430 | 52 g | 150 mg |
| Caffè Misto | 90 | 6 g | 150 mg |
| Chai Latte | 240 | 42 g | 95 mg |
| Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | 120 | 13 g | 255 mg |
| Cortado (whole milk) | 110 | 9 g | 150 mg |
| Holiday-inspired cold brew | 180 | 28 g | 185 mg |
Swipe to see more →
Values based on Starbucks published nutrition data. Customization (light syrup, alternative milk) can reduce calories by 100 to 200 per drink.
Budget Winter Drinks Under $5
If you want warm Starbucks comfort without the premium-latte price tag, the under-$5 winter picks (Caffè Misto, Blonde Roast, steamed milk with cinnamon) are all legitimate cozy options. Full list with calories: 10 Starbucks Winter Drinks Under $5.
Customizing Winter Drinks for Lower Sugar
Winter holiday drinks skew sweet. Standard trimming:
- Half pumps of syrup, saves ~10 g sugar
- Unsweetened almond milk, saves 40–60 cal + 5 g sugar
- Skip whipped cream, saves ~60 cal + 7 g sugar
- Tall instead of Grande, saves ~25% everything
Preview exact numbers with the Starbucks Calorie Calculator.
Sources & References
- Starbucks Newsroom. Official seasonal menu announcements
- Starbucks Nutrition by the Cup. Official calorie and sugar data per drink
- American Heart Association: Added Sugars. Daily added-sugar recommendations
