When it comes to popular coffee drinks, one of the most beloved is a classic cup of Starbucks Vanilla Bean. This indulgent beverage combines rich espresso and creamy vanilla syrup, creating a flavor that can’t be beat. But while some fans swear by the Starbucks Vanilla Bean latte, the key question remains: does it actually have coffee in it? The answer may surprise you.
To answer the question, first let’s take a look at what is actually contained in Starbucks Vanilla Bean. According to the website, it consists of creamy vanilla bean syrup, two shots of espresso, and milk, as per the franchised Starbucks locations. Despite this breakdown, many customers continue to wonder if it really contains espresso, and if so, how much.
In an effort to clear up any confusion, a few experts weighed in on the subject and their testimony provides some insight. According to coffee connoisseur and former Starbucks barista, Rachel Carlson, the Starbucks Vanilla Bean latte contains between 60-90 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the size of the drink ordered. Carlson goes on to say that while this is not a significant amount, it is enough to give a good boost to espresso afficionados.
Now that we have established that it does contain espresso, what about the other ingredients? Popular opinion amongst industry professionals is that Starbucks Vanilla Bean Syrup is a high-quality product, comprised of natural vanilla extract and sugar mixed with water. It is both flavorful and not overly sweet. The two shots of espresso lend a subtle flavor that nicely complements the sweet syrup, making for an excellent beverage.
In the end, the answer to the question of whether or not the Starbucks Vanilla Bean Latte contains coffee is a resounding yes. Fans of the beverage can rest easy knowing that they’re getting the boost they need without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. That being said, it’s important to remember that each individual order may have slightly varying amounts of caffeine depending on the size, so fans should make sure to order exactly what they need.
Ingredients
In terms of ingredients, Starbucks Vanilla Bean is made up of a few key components. All of them help to create the signature flavor of the latte. At the foundation is the iconic Starbucks Espresso, which is a blend of both Arabica and Robusta beans that are roasted and then ground in-store. To this deeply flavorful espresso, Starbucks uses its classic Vanilla Bean Syrup. This syrup is made up of pure vanilla extract as well as sugar, creating a sweetness that complements the espresso perfectly. Finally, customers have the choice of adding either whole or non-fat milk. The combination of these ingredients results in a decadent and creamy beverage.
Calorie Count
Starbucks Vanilla Bean Lattes are a favorite amongst espresso aficionados but many worry about the calorie count. Depending on which type of milk is added, the calorie count may vary. The range tends to be around 150-250 calories for the smaller size, and 250-350 for larger sizes. While these numbers may be slightly more than some dieters would like, it is worth noting that many fans of the latte describe it as a “treat” that is more than worth the calories.
Price
The cost of a Starbucks Vanilla Bean latte depends on the size of the drink and the location. Most 8-ounce drinks cost around $3-$5 while 16-ounce alternatives usually range from $5-$7. Prices may be slightly higher at some locations. Even so, the drink is generally considered to be fairly affordable.
Where To Buy
Starbucks Vanilla Bean Lattes can be purchased at most Starbucks locations or online through the Starbucks website. They are also available at some grocery stores and convenience stores. All of these options ensure that coffee lovers are never too far away from enjoying one of Starbucks’ signature drinks.
