Iced coffee has always been my go-to pick-me-up, especially when life gets busy, and I need that perfect caffeine boost. I remember my first iced coffee experience at Starbucks.
It was a warm afternoon, and I desperately sought something refreshing yet energizing. The barista recommended the classic Iced Caramel Macchiato.
One sip, and I was hooked! Over the years, I’ve tried several of their iced coffee offerings, and in 2024, the lineup is better than ever. If you’re a fellow coffee lover like me, here are 10 Starbucks iced coffee drinks you must try this year.
1. Iced Caramel Macchiato
The Iced Caramel Macchiato is a Starbucks staple, and for a good reason. It perfectly blends bold espresso with vanilla-flavored syrup, milk, and a beautiful drizzle of caramel on top. I love how each layer provides a unique flavor, from the slightly bitter espresso at the top to the sweet caramel syrup that settles at the bottom. Stir it up for an even taste, or let the flavors unfold as you drink it.
Why try it in 2024?
Starbucks has introduced new dairy-free milk options, and this drink tastes even better with their creamy oat milk or almond milk.
2. Iced Shaken Espresso
Formerly known as the “Starbucks Doubleshot on Ice,” the Iced Shaken Espresso is one of my personal favorites when I need a strong coffee without being too sweet.
The barista shakes espresso shots with ice, a touch of classic syrup, and your choice of milk, resulting in a slightly frothy, smooth iced coffee that’s not overpowering.
Why try it in 2024?
The Iced Shaken Espresso can be customized for a richer, more indulgent experience with newer flavors like brown sugar and toasted vanilla.
3. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
Speaking of customization, the Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso has been making waves.
This drink combines espresso with brown sugar syrup and cinnamon, shaken with ice and topped off with creamy oat milk. It’s the perfect mix of sweet, spiced, and refreshing.
Why try it in 2024?
Oat milk continues to rise in popularity as a dairy alternative, and Starbucks’ creamy version makes this drink a must-try, especially if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
4. Iced White Chocolate Mocha
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Iced White Chocolate Mocha is a decadent choice. It blends espresso with white chocolate sauce and milk, finished with whipped cream.
Despite being rich, the iced version feels lighter and is an indulgence I reserve for those days when I need a real treat.
Why try it in 2024?
With more people opting for lower-sugar diets, Starbucks has added sugar-free syrups and alternative sweeteners, so you can customize your Iced White Chocolate Mocha to suit your needs.
5. Iced Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Cold brew has been a game-changer for coffee lovers. Starbucks’ Iced Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew pairs their signature cold brew with vanilla syrup and a splash of their homemade vanilla sweet cream. What I love about this drink is how smooth and mellow it is, with just the right amount of sweetness.
Why try it in 2024?
Starbucks is experimenting with new cold brew blends, and their 2024 version promises even smoother, bolder flavors, making this a must-try.
6. Iced Caffè Americano
If you prefer your coffee to be more straightforward and less sweet, the Iced Caffè Americano is your go-to. It’s simply espresso shots mixed with cold water and ice. This drink is bold and packs a punch, perfect for those who love the taste of strong coffee.
Why try it in 2024?
Starbucks has introduced a new line of single-origin espresso beans that can be used in your Americano, giving it a more nuanced and distinctive flavor.
7. Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White
The Iced Honey Almondmilk Flat White is a delightful balance of espresso, almond milk, and honey. It’s a lighter option but still delivers the robust flavor of espresso with a hint of sweetness from the honey. It’s perfect for those who want something a little different but not too sweet.
Why try it in 2024?
Almond milk continues to be a favorite alternative to dairy, and Starbucks’ honey blend adds just the right amount of natural sweetness, making this drink a great choice for the health-conscious.
8. Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
Newer on the menu, the Iced Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso has quickly become a favorite. It’s made with blonde espresso, toasted vanilla syrup, and oat milk, creating a rich, creamy, and smooth drink. The toasted vanilla adds a warm depth to the flavor that’s perfect for any time of day.
Why try it in 2024?
With Starbucks continuing to experiment with unique flavors, the toasted vanilla syrup is a great twist on a classic vanilla latte.
9. Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso
For chocolate lovers, the Iced Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso is a dream. This drink features rich cocoa flavors, shaken with espresso and almond milk, creating a creamy and chocolatey experience. It’s not overly sweet, making it an ideal afternoon pick-me-up.
Why try it in 2024?
The combination of almond milk and cocoa offers a lighter, dairy-free alternative for those who want something sweet but without the heaviness of a mocha.
10. Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
Last but certainly not least, the Iced Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew is for those who love a balance of salty and sweet. Starbucks’ cold brew is topped with salted caramel cold foam, creating a luxurious and creamy finish. The cold brew’s boldness cuts through the sweetness, making this a refreshing yet indulgent drink.
Why try it in 2024?
Starbucks is offering more variations of their cold foam toppings, and the salted caramel version pairs beautifully with their smooth cold brew.
Wrapping Up
As a long-time Starbucks fan, I’ve found myself coming back to their iced coffee menu time and time again. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, strong, or dairy-free, Starbucks has something for every iced coffee lover in 2024.
I encourage you to explore these options and find your new favorite. And who knows? Maybe the next time you’re craving an iced coffee, you’ll discover a new go-to drink just like I did that one sunny afternoon.
Remember, the beauty of Starbucks is its customization options, so feel free to tweak these drinks to your liking. Happy sipping!