What To Order At Starbucks, If You Don’t Like Coffee
Starbucks may be famous for their coffee, but there are plenty of other drinks for customers without a coffee craving. Many tea varieties, smoothies, and espresso-based drinks are available at Starbucks, in addition to the typical non-caffeinated sugary frappuccino or milkshake. Here are a few of the delicious options and what makes them special.
Matcha and Chai Tea Lattes
One of the top Starbucks drinks for those without a coffee habit is a matcha latte. The green tea powder blended with milk and ice creates a unique flavor and a creamy texture. Matcha is also packed full of antioxidants and has some natural sweetness. The iced variety is served with the milk already blended, while the hot version is made with a mix of milk and green tea powder on the spot, making it a better choice for those who like more of a ritualistic experience. The same method goes for the chai tea latte. The sweet and spicy flavor of the chai tea combined with the rich creamy milk and the vibrant spices of the latte are a perfect combination.
Smoothies
Smoothies are a great option if you’re looking for something to get you feeling energized or hydrated. Depending on the season and availability, Starbucks offers smoothies in various combinations of fruit and often with a dairy component too. From the classic strawberry and banana combination, to the more exotic papaya and pineapple blend, there is something for everyone. All you have to do is choose the type you want whether it be a Greek yogurt smoothie or a vegan option.
Refreshers
Refreshers from Starbucks make for a great midday pick-me-up or afternoon snack. It’s the perfect way to get your dose of caffeine without an espresso shot. Refreshers are typically teas and juices, infused with a cooling flavor, such as orange-mango citrus, pineapple-spearmint sparkler, or Lime Slice with mint.
Steamer
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting beverage this winter, a steamer is just for you. Starbucks Steamers are delicious hot drinks made with steamed non-fat or non-dairy milk such as coconut, almond or soy, and flavored with vanilla, caramel or mocha. The sweet and creamy combination makes it an ideal cold-weather treat.
Fountain Soda
Fountain sodas are an excellent option for those who don’t like coffee but want a little more than just a bottle of flavored Sparking Water. Starbucks offers a variety of carbonated beverages like lemonade, strawberry acai, and even coconut mango. Some locations even have special flavored sodas like tamarind clove or strawberry lychee.
Hot Chocolate
Finally, when all else fails, there is always the classic cup of hot chocolate. Perfect for those cold winter days, hot chocolate from Starbucks is always a hit. Whether it’s the white chocolate mocha or the caramelized hazelnut topping, it’s sure to hit the spot. Hot chocolate is also available in a variety of sizes and toppings, so you can customize it to your heart’s desire.
How to Customize Beverages at Starbucks
Starbucks has the option of customizing beverages for added flavor. This means that you can choose extra shots of espresso, different syrups, and more. A great way to customize a non coffee drink is to add some flavors like vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel to coffee-like drinks.
Making Drink Requests/Using Modifiers
If you don’t want to customize your own drinks, you can make requests to the barista. Use special words like “no whip” or “light ice” to signify what you want. Make sure to specify your order because you might end up with something different.
Non-Dairy Milks
If you’re looking for something with a richer flavor than skim, soy, almond, and coconut milk are available for extra cost in place of regular milk. When ordering, be sure to request what type of non dairy milk you want.
The Benefits of No-Coffee Starbucks Drinks
Non-coffee based drinks from Starbucks can provide a great way to get energy from other sources like tea, smoothies, and refreshers. By choosing non-coffee based drinks, you are able to experiment and discover new flavors without having to spend a fortune on coffee. Non-dairy milks can also add flavor and nutrition to your drink and enhance the experience. Finally, Starbucks has plenty of vegan, sugar-free, and gluten-free options, so there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.
How to Order Non-Coffee Starbucks Drinks
When ordering drinks at Starbucks, make sure you state your requests clearly. Be sure to mention if you would like dairy-free, vegan, or sugar-free options, as well as any modifications you may want. If you can’t decide, ask for recommendations from the barista.
Tips for Picking the Perfect Beverage
If you’re looking for something new to try, don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors! Ask the barista for suggestions or try a specialty from the Starbucks “Secret Menu.” Also, make sure to check the Starbucks website for featured items or seasonal drinks. Additionally, drinking a beverage without ice can aid in its flavor and texture, as well as allowing you to get the best out of the ingredients.
Learning to Say “No” to Coffee
It can be difficult to give up the comforts and nostalgia of drinking coffee. Learning to say “no” to coffee can be challenging at first, but ultimately provides a unique experience trying new flavors and different combinations of drinks. It can also be beneficial to take time to explore different options and try something different.
Making Non-Coffee Starbucks Drinks at Home
Making non-coffee Starbucks drinks at home can be a great way to save money and have control over the ingredients. There are plenty of recipes available online that are easy to replicate with pantry ingredients. It’s also fun to experiment and make your own creations or variations on existing drinks.
Creating a Healthy Balance
There are some non-coffee drinks that can be just as high in sugar and calories as a frappuccino. All of the added syrups, sauces, and whipped cream can quickly add up. Thus, try to stick to healthier options where possible. For example, ask for fewer pumps of flavored syrup or ask for coconut milk instead of whole milk. There are plenty of healthier alternatives available.
Enjoying Non-Coffee Starbucks Drinks
Starbucks non-coffee drinks can be a great alternative to the standard cup of joe. There are plenty of delicious and unique options that are available for those without a coffee-drinking habit. When ordering, make sure to ask for modifications and try out the different flavors Starbucks has to offer. Create a custom beverage for every day of the week or sample the drinks from the “Secret Menu.” However you decide to enjoy non-coffee drinks from Starbucks, it’s sure to be an enjoyable experience.
