As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, our thoughts naturally drift toward cozy sweaters and festive celebrations. There’s a certain magic in the autumn season that Starbucks seems to capture perfectly, especially when it comes to their seasonal offerings. While pumpkin spice often takes the spotlight, the creative minds behind the counter have a knack for conjuring beverages that are perfectly suited for a spooky soirée or a quiet, atmospheric evening.
Finding the perfect potion to match your Halloween spirit doesn’t require a trip to a haunted house. In fact, you can find a wonderfully eerie selection right at your local coffee shop. We’ve gathered a list of the most enchanting and flavorful options that will make your Halloween celebrations complete. This guide will walk you through 11 spooky and delicious Halloween drinks at Starbucks, from official seasonal sips to clever secret menu creations you can order with a little know-how.
Official Halloween Sips from the Starbucks Menu
Starbucks often releases a signature beverage for the fall that goes beyond the classic PSL. These are the easiest to order, as they are featured right on the menu board and every barista will know how to make them to perfection.
The Chilled Witch’s Brew
A fan-favorite that makes a periodic return, the Witch’s Brew Frappuccino is a visual spectacle. This vibrant purple drink is typically made with a mango and passionfruit base, often with chia seeds that resemble “bat warts” for a fun, textural surprise. Topped with green whipped cream, it’s a non-coffee option that is as fun to look at as it is to sip. Be sure to ask if it’s available at your local store, as it’s a limited-time spooky special.
The Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
For those who prefer a less sweet but equally festive option, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a masterpiece. It starts with their smooth, slow-steeped Cold Brew, which is then topped with a velvety, house-made pumpkin spice cream cold foam. The result is a beautifully layered drink that offers a rich coffee flavor with a gentle, sweet and spicy pumpkin finish. It’s a more grown-up take on a Halloween treat.
Bewitching Secret Menu Concoctions
The real fun begins when you explore the world of secret menu drinks. These are customizations of existing Starbucks ingredients, so you’ll need to know how to order them. Don’t worry, we have the recipes right here.
Orange Creamsicle Frappuccino
Capture the essence of that classic Halloween candy with this creamy and vibrant drink. To order, ask for a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. Then, request that it be made with half milk and half orange juice. You can also ask to add a pump of peach juice for a slightly more complex fruit flavor. It creates a beautifully orange color that is perfectly festive.
The Candy Apple Refresher
This drink mimics the sweet, crisp taste of a classic candy apple. Start by ordering an Apple Juice to the first line in the cup. Then, ask for a Passion Tango Iced Tea to fill the rest of the space. Add a few pumps of raspberry syrup to taste for that signature red candy shell flavor. It’s a refreshing and caffeine-free potion that’s great for all ages.
Caramel Apple Spice Cider
A warm and comforting option, this drink feels like a hug on a chilly Halloween night. Order a Steamed Apple Juice, add cinnamon dolce syrup, and top it with whipped cream and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s like enjoying a caramel apple in a cup, without the sticky fingers.
Your Guide to Ordering 11 Spooky and Delicious Halloween Drinks at Starbucks
Navigating the secret menu can be simple if you go in prepared. The key is to be kind and patient with your barista, as these are custom orders not found on their standard menu. It’s always helpful to have the recipe handy, either on your phone or written down. You can describe the drink you want by listing its components. For example, instead of saying “I want a Candy Apple Refresher,” you could say, “Could I please have an Apple Juice to the first line, filled with Passion Tango Tea, and add two pumps of raspberry syrup?” This makes the process smooth and easy for everyone.
Don’t be afraid to customize further to suit your taste. Ask for extra drizzle, a different type of milk, or an added shot of espresso for a caffeine kick. Many of these colorful drinks also look fantastic, so consider asking for your drink to be made in a clear cup to fully appreciate its spooky aesthetic.
Brewing Up the Perfect Halloween Vibe
Presentation is part of the fun of a Halloween drink. Think about the complete experience. Pairing your chosen beverage with a themed Starbucks cup or a fun sleeve can add to the charm. If you’re grabbing drinks for a party, consider adding your own festive touches like a black and orange straw or a small, plastic spider ring on the side of the cup. These little details can turn a simple coffee run into a memorable part of your Halloween celebration.
Remember, availability for some ingredients or official seasonal drinks can vary by location and year. It’s always a good idea to check the Starbucks app or call your local store ahead of time if you have your heart set on a specific potion. This is especially true for the vibrant, limited-edition Frappuccinos that appear around the holiday.
From the officially bewitching to the creatively customized, there is a Halloween-themed drink at Starbucks for every palate. Whether you’re drawn to the creamy and cool Frappuccinos, the robust and cozy hot drinks, or the fruity and refreshing iced options, these 11 spooky and delicious Halloween drinks at Starbucks offer a wonderful way to celebrate the season. So gather your friends, pick your potion, and enjoy a tasty toast to all things Halloween.