The arrival of the holiday season is met with great anticipation, and for many, it’s not just about the gifts, decorations, or time with family and friends, but also about the special offerings from beloved brands. One such brand that never fails to impress with its seasonal delights is Starbucks. Every year, the coffee giant unveils a range of holiday drinks that become an integral part of the festive experience for millions worldwide. For the year 2020, Starbucks once again brought out its cherished holiday favorites, along with some innovative twists, to make the season even more special. In this article, we’ll delve into the wonderful world of Starbucks holiday drinks for 2020, exploring what made them so enticing and how they contributed to the festive cheer.
Introduction to Starbucks Holiday Tradition
Starbucks has a long-standing tradition of introducing limited-time holiday drinks to its menu. This tradition not only excites loyal customers but also attracts new ones who are eager to experience the unique flavors and essence of the season. The holiday drinks menu at Starbucks is a blend of classic recipes, often featuring signature espresso, steamed milk, and a variety of sweet and spicy toppings. Each drink is carefully crafted to evoke the warmth, comfort, and joy associated with the holiday season.
Classic Holiday Drinks
For 2020, Starbucks brought back its beloved holiday classics, which have been favorites among customers for years. These drinks include:
- Peppermint Mocha: A refreshing blend of chocolate and peppermint, topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.
- Gingerbread Latte: A warm, spicy drink that combines the richness of steamed milk and espresso with the comforting flavors of gingerbread.
- Eggnog Latte: A creamy, sweet drink featuring the classic holiday ingredient, eggnog, combined with espresso and a hint of nutmeg.
- Caramel Brûlée Latte: For those with a sweet tooth, this drink combines the deep flavors of espresso and steamed milk with caramel and a crunchy, caramelized sugar topping.
These classic drinks are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for Instagram-worthy moments. The return of these drinks is highly anticipated each year, serving as a signal that the holiday season has truly begun.
Seasonal Ingredients and Packaging
A notable aspect of Starbucks’ holiday offerings is the incorporation of seasonal ingredients that reflect the flavors and aromas of the time. For instance, the use of peppermint, gingerbread, and eggnog in their respective drinks helps to create a festive atmosphere. Additionally, Starbucks is known for its limited-edition holiday cups, which become a collectors’ item each year. The cups are designed with festive themes and colors, adding to the overall holiday experience.
New and Innovative Offerings for 2020
While the classics are always a highlight, Starbucks also introduced some new and innovative drinks to its 2020 holiday menu. These drinks were designed to provide customers with fresh flavor experiences while still capturing the essence of the holiday season. Although the specifics can vary by region, the approach to innovation remains a key aspect of Starbucks’ strategy to keep the menu exciting and appealing to a wide range of tastes.
Customer Favorites and Feedback
Customer feedback plays a crucial role in Starbucks’ menu development, including its holiday offerings. The company often engages with its customers through social media, in-store promotions, and loyalty programs to understand preferences and gather insights on potential new flavors and products. This approach ensures that the holiday menu is not only delicious but also reflective of what customers are looking for during the festive season.
Sustainability Efforts
In line with its commitment to sustainability, Starbucks continued its efforts to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices during the 2020 holiday season. This included recyclable cups, reduced packaging, and incentives for customers to use reusable cups. Such initiatives resonate with the growing number of consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility and look for brands that share these values.
Global Holiday Drinks and Promotions
One of the fascinating aspects of Starbucks’ holiday offerings is how they are tailored to different markets around the world. While some drinks are universally available, others are designed to cater to local tastes and preferences. For instance, in some European countries, Starbucks might offer drinks featuring local flavors and ingredients, making the experience even more unique and culturally relevant.
In addition to the drinks themselves, Starbucks also runs various promotions and giveaways during the holiday season. These can include special deals on holiday drinks, buy-one-get-one-free offers, and loyalty rewards. Such promotions not only attract new customers but also reward loyal patrons, fostering a sense of community and appreciation.
Given the richness and diversity of Starbucks’ 2020 holiday drinks menu, it’s clear that the company put a great deal of thought into crafting an experience that would delight both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a fan of classic peppermint mochas or eager to try something new, Starbucks had something for everyone, making the 2020 holiday season a little brighter and a lot more delicious.
In conclusion, Starbucks’ holiday drinks for 2020 were a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By blending traditional flavors with new and exciting offerings, and by engaging with customers and promoting sustainability, Starbucks once again set the standard for holiday cheer in the world of coffee and beyond. As we look forward to future holiday seasons, one thing is certain: Starbucks will continue to be at the forefront, spreading joy and warmth, one cup at a time.
What are the new Starbucks holiday drinks for 2020?
The Starbucks holiday drinks for 2020 include a range of festive and delicious beverages. The lineup features returning favorites such as the Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, and Eggnog Latte. Additionally, Starbucks has introduced a new drink, the Irish Cream Cold Brew, which is a cold brew coffee infused with Irish cream syrup and topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. This new drink is a unique and tasty addition to the holiday menu.
The holiday drinks are available in stores from November to the end of December, while supplies last. Customers can enjoy these special drinks in a variety of sizes, including Short, Tall, Grande, and Venti. The drinks can be customized to suit individual tastes, with options such as whipped cream, extra syrup, and non-dairy milk alternatives. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to try something new, the Starbucks holiday drinks for 2020 are sure to get you in the festive spirit.
How do I order a Starbucks holiday drink with non-dairy milk?
To order a Starbucks holiday drink with non-dairy milk, simply ask your barista to substitute the regular milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. You can also customize your drink by choosing a specific type of non-dairy milk, such as oat milk or cashew milk, if it is available at your local Starbucks store. Additionally, you can use the Starbucks mobile app to customize your drink order and select non-dairy milk as an option.
When ordering a holiday drink with non-dairy milk, keep in mind that some flavors may not be suitable for non-dairy alternatives. For example, the Eggnog Latte is typically made with eggnog, which contains dairy, so it may not be possible to get this drink with non-dairy milk. However, many other holiday drinks, such as the Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Latte, can be easily made with non-dairy milk and are just as delicious. Be sure to ask your barista for their recommendations and guidance on customizing your holiday drink with non-dairy milk.
Can I get a Starbucks holiday drink with extra shots of espresso?
Yes, you can get a Starbucks holiday drink with extra shots of espresso. To order, simply ask your barista to add an extra shot or two of espresso to your drink. This will give your holiday drink an extra boost of caffeine and a richer flavor. Keep in mind that adding extra shots of espresso will increase the price of your drink, but it’s a great way to customize your beverage to your taste.
When ordering extra shots of espresso, be sure to specify the type of espresso you prefer. For example, you can ask for an extra shot of blonde espresso or an extra shot of Pike Place Roast espresso. Additionally, you can ask your barista to pull the shots of espresso separately and add them to your drink, rather than having them mixed in with the rest of the ingredients. This will allow you to control the amount of espresso in your drink and customize the flavor to your liking.
Are Starbucks holiday drinks available in stores year-round?
No, Starbucks holiday drinks are not available in stores year-round. The holiday drinks are typically available from November to the end of December, while supplies last. During this time, customers can enjoy a range of festive and delicious beverages, including the Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, and Eggnog Latte. After the holiday season, these special drinks are no longer available in stores, and the regular menu takes over.
However, some customers have reported that certain Starbucks locations may offer holiday drinks year-round, or at least during the off-season. This is typically the case for stores that are located in areas with high demand for holiday drinks, such as tourist areas or locations with a large number of Starbucks loyalists. Additionally, some customers have successfully requested holiday drinks from their baristas during the off-season, although this is not a guaranteed option. If you’re craving a holiday drink outside of the regular season, it’s worth asking your barista if they can accommodate your request.
Can I customize my Starbucks holiday drink with extra whipped cream or toppings?
Yes, you can customize your Starbucks holiday drink with extra whipped cream or toppings. To order, simply ask your barista to add extra whipped cream, sprinkles, or other toppings to your drink. This is a great way to make your holiday drink even more festive and delicious. Keep in mind that adding extra toppings or whipped cream may increase the price of your drink, but it’s a fun way to make your beverage more special.
When customizing your holiday drink, be sure to ask your barista about the available toppings and extras. For example, you can ask for extra whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles to add to your drink. Additionally, you can ask your barista to drizzle your drink with caramel or hazelnut syrup for an extra flavor boost. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings and flavors to create your perfect holiday drink.
How do I find out which Starbucks holiday drinks are available at my local store?
To find out which Starbucks holiday drinks are available at your local store, you can check the Starbucks website or mobile app. The website and app will typically list the available holiday drinks and their ingredients, as well as any special promotions or offers. You can also call your local Starbucks store directly to ask about their holiday drink offerings and availability.
Additionally, you can follow your local Starbucks store on social media to stay up-to-date on their holiday drink offerings and promotions. Many Starbucks stores will post updates and photos of their holiday drinks on Instagram and Facebook, which can give you a sneak peek of what’s available. You can also ask your barista about the holiday drink offerings and availability when you visit the store. They can provide you with more information and recommendations on the best drinks to try.
Can I purchase Starbucks holiday drinks in bulk or as a gift?
Yes, you can purchase Starbucks holiday drinks in bulk or as a gift. To order in bulk, simply ask your barista about their large drink orders and catering options. Many Starbucks stores offer discounts for large orders, which can be a great way to stock up on holiday drinks for a party or special occasion. Additionally, you can purchase Starbucks gift cards, which can be used to buy holiday drinks or other menu items.
When purchasing holiday drinks as a gift, consider adding a special touch, such as a personalized cup or a packet of Starbucks coffee. You can also ask your barista to create a custom gift basket or drink package, complete with a selection of holiday drinks and treats. This is a great way to show your friends and loved ones that you care, and to help them get into the holiday spirit. Be sure to check with your local Starbucks store for more information on their bulk ordering and gift options.