Starbucks is already gearing up for the new year, and while most of us are still clinging to our final festive coffees, the chain has its sights firmly set on what’s coming next.
Regulars will know that January often signals a fresh wave of limited-edition drinks and revamped classics, but this year the line-up lands with even more anticipation than usual.
The brand has continued to lean into its growing range of custom milks, cold foams and protein-boosted creations, offering customers the kind of beverages that blur the line between coffee order and full-blown ritual. It’s a winter menu that plays directly into the hands of fans who want both comfort and novelty as the year resets.
With more customers choosing drinks that promise something fun, functional or viral-worthy, Starbucks seems determined to offer all three at once. That means nutty flavours, candy-inspired creations and the kind of layered drinks made for close-up phone cameras.
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Only after digging into the line-up does the true headline emerge: some of the most talked-about Starbucks drinks of the past year are finally getting their official rollout.
Said in its press release to be arriving on 6 January, the chain’s newest announced additions include the Caramel Protein Matcha and Caramel Protein Latte, both made with Starbucks’ Protein-Boosted Milk — a blend of 2 percent milk and whey protein crafted daily by baristas, as noted by People.
Each comes with pumps of caramel syrup, available in both standard and sugar-free forms, continuing the brand’s push into macro-friendly drinks for customers who want extra function without sacrificing flavour.
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The pistachio line makes a strong return too, with the Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew back on the menu alongside a new Pistachio Cortado, made with three ristretto blonde espresso shots and steamed milk.
The biggest newcomer, though, and the one already buzzing across social media feeds, is the duo inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate trend: the Iced Dubai Chocolate Matcha and Iced Dubai Chocolate Mocha. Images show the mocha topped with Pistachio Cream Cold Foam and brown butter sprinkles, while the matcha appears to feature a chocolate-and-pistachio cold foam layered over its signature green base.
Food-wise, the winter menu also introduces Truffle, Mushroom and Brie Egg Bites, along with an upgraded Turkey Bacon, Cheddar and Egg White Sandwich featuring Cherrywood-smoked bacon and a more flavourful cheddar. For those already counting down to Valentine’s Day, the Valentine Cake Pop returns alongside the winter drinks drop.
Ben Williams