When your energy levels are running low, a reliable and delicious pick-me-up can make all the difference. Starbucks, a global leader in coffee, offers a wide array of beverages designed to provide that essential boost, available right from your local grocery store or online. From smooth cold brews to potent energy drinks, there’s an option for every preference and need.
This roundup focuses on ready-to-drink and at-home solutions that deliver the signature Starbucks experience with a focus on energy. We’ve curated a list of stimulating picks to help you find the perfect drink to power through your day, whether you need a quick caffeine fix or a sustained release of energy.
Our Top Picks for an Energy Boost
- Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew, Vanilla Sweet Cream 9.6 fl oz Can (8 Pack)
- Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee, Dark Roast, 1 Box (50 Packets)
- Starbucks Ground Coffee, Veranda Blend, 100% Arabica, 6 bags
- Starbucks Doubleshot Energy Coffee, 11 oz Cans
- Starbucks Triple Shot Energy Signature Espresso, 15 oz Can
- Starbucks Baya Energy Raspberry Lime Drink
- Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate, 32 oz
- Starbucks Vanilla Frappuccino Coffee Drink, 13.7 oz Bottles
Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew, Vanilla Sweet Cream 9.6 fl oz Can (8 Pack)
Experience the cascading effect and smooth texture of Starbucks Nitro Cold Brew straight from a can. This beverage is infused with nitrogen as soon as you open it, creating a naturally sweet flavor and a velvety, creamy texture without the need for added dairy. The subtle addition of vanilla sweet cream makes for a perfectly balanced and refreshing cold coffee.
Each 9.6 fl oz can is ready to drink and best enjoyed cold. Simply tilt the can once, pop it open, and pour it into a glass for the full experience. This convenient eight-pack ensures you have a supply of barista-style cold brew on hand for a quick and effective energy lift any time of day.
Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee, Dark Roast, 1 Box (50 Packets)
For a powerful and immediate energy boost anywhere, Starbucks VIA Instant Italian Roast is an excellent solution. This dark roast coffee is made from 100% arabica beans and delivers a deep, robust flavor with notes of dark cocoa and toasted marshmallow. The single-serve packets are designed for maximum convenience and freshness.
This 50-count box provides a long-lasting supply of premium instant coffee. It’s an ideal choice for the office, travel, or a quick cup at home when you need a reliable caffeine source. You get the consistent, high-quality taste Starbucks is known for, with no brewing equipment required.
Starbucks Ground Coffee, Veranda Blend, 100% Arabica, 6 bags
If you prefer a lighter roast with a smooth and mellow character, the Starbucks Veranda Blend is a fantastic option. As a Blonde Roast, it offers a softer, more approachable coffee experience with notes of toasted malt and baking chocolate. This pack includes six 12-ounce bags of ground coffee, perfect for regular coffee drinkers.
Brewing a fresh pot at home ensures you get a consistent and satisfying cup of coffee that provides a clear, focused energy boost. The 100% arabica beans are the same high quality you find in Starbucks cafes, allowing you to start your day with a familiar and comforting taste.
Starbucks Doubleshot Energy Coffee, 11 oz Cans
Starbucks Doubleshot Energy Coffee is formulated for those times when you need a significant surge of energy. This drink combines rich Starbucks coffee with additional energy ingredients for a potent effect. The result is a smooth, coffee-forward beverage that is both refreshing and powerfully stimulating.
Packaged in convenient 11 oz cans, it’s an easy grab-and-go option for a busy morning or an afternoon slump. The balanced flavor and reliable energy boost make it a popular choice for maintaining alertness and focus throughout the day.
Starbucks Triple Shot Energy Signature Espresso, 15 oz Can
For the ultimate coffee intensity, the Starbucks Triple Shot Energy Signature Espresso delivers a concentrated dose of espresso. The larger 15 oz can contains a robust blend of coffee with a higher caffeine content, designed to provide a strong and lasting energy lift. Its signature espresso flavor is bold and invigorating.
This product is ideal for long days, late nights, or any situation that demands peak mental alertness. The creamy texture and rich taste make it a satisfying choice for espresso lovers who need a serious energy solution in a convenient format.
Starbucks Baya Energy Raspberry Lime Drink
Starbucks Baya Energy offers a fruity and refreshing alternative to coffee-based energy drinks. This beverage is made with caffeine from coffee fruit and features a bright, tangy raspberry lime flavor. It provides a crisp and uplifting energy experience that is both delicious and effective.
With its vibrant taste and smooth energy release, Baya Energy is perfect for those who want a boost without the traditional coffee taste. It’s an excellent option for a midday refreshment or a pre-workout drink that keeps you energized and hydrated.
Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate, 32 oz
Create your own customized cold brew beverages at home with this Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate. The 32 oz bottle contains a highly concentrated form of Starbucks cold brew, allowing you to mix it with water, milk, or your favorite creamer to achieve your perfect strength and flavor.
This concentrate is incredibly versatile, enabling you to make everything from a straight black cold brew to a sweetened, creamy creation. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the smooth, low-acidity taste of cold brew coffee and its sustained energy benefits on your own schedule.
Starbucks Vanilla Frappuccino Coffee Drink, 13.7 oz Bottles
The Starbucks Vanilla Frappuccino offers a sweet and creamy coffee experience that also provides a welcome energy boost. This ready-to-drink coffee blend has a smooth vanilla flavor and a rich, satisfying texture. It’s a classic choice for those who enjoy a dessert-like coffee beverage.
Each 13.7 oz bottle is perfectly portable, making it a great companion for a commute or a quick break. The combination of sweet vanilla and coffee delivers a pleasant and effective pick-me-up that feels like a special treat while still serving its purpose as an energy source.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Starbucks Energy Drink
When I need a serious energy boost, my first thought is often Starbucks. But with so many options, it can be tough to pick the right one. It’s not just about grabbing the drink with the most caffeine; it’s about finding what works for your body, your taste, and your specific needs. I’ve learned that a little strategy goes a long way in turning a simple coffee run into a proper power-up.
First, I always consider the caffeine source. The classic choice is, of course, coffee. Drinks like a Nitro Cold Brew or a Blonde Roast Americano are my go-tos for a pure, potent kick. The blonde roast actually has a smoother taste and more caffeine than their darker roasts. If I’m not in the mood for coffee, I look to tea. A Matcha Tea Latte or a Chai Tea Latte provides a different kind of energy. Matcha gives me a calm, focused alertness thanks to L-theanine, while the spices in chai feel like a warm, comforting jolt.
Next, I think about the form. Do I want something hot, iced, or even blended? A hot Caffè Americano is simple and effective, while an Iced Shaken Espresso is refreshing and fast-acting. For a treat that feels more like a dessert but still packs a punch, the Java Chip Frappuccino is a solid choice, though I sometimes ask for an extra shot of espresso to up the ante.
Customization is key. I never hesitate to modify my order to fit my energy goals. Adding a shot of espresso to any drink is the easiest way to increase the caffeine content. I also pay attention to sugar. While a sweet drink can give a quick spike, it often leads to a crash later. I often opt for sugar-free syrups or simply reduce the number of pumps to keep my energy levels more stable. For a longer-lasting effect, I might add a protein box or a food item to have with my drink, as the combination of caffeine and food can prevent a sudden energy drop.
Ultimately, my search for the best 8 Starbucks drinks for energy: 11 stimulating picks taught me that the best drink is the one that aligns with how I want to feel. A quick, intense burst? Straight espresso. A sustained, steady lift? A slow-sipped latte. Knowing the differences helps me make the perfect choice every time.
FAQ
What is the most caffeinated drink at Starbucks?
The title for the most caffeinated standard menu item generally goes to the Venti Blonde Roast Coffee, which can contain well over 400 mg of caffeine. If you’re looking at espresso-based drinks, a Venti Starbucks Doubleshot on Ice is a strong contender. It’s crucial to remember that caffeine content can vary, and customizations like adding extra shots will obviously increase the total. Always check the latest nutritional information on the Starbucks app or website for the most accurate numbers.
Can I get an energy boost without coffee?
Absolutely. Starbucks has several great options that don’t rely on coffee beans. The Matcha Green Tea Latte is my top pick. Matcha contains caffeine along with L-theanine, which can promote a state of calm alertness without the jitters. The Chai Tea Latte is another fantastic choice, as the black tea base provides a solid caffeine kick complemented by warming spices. For a completely different route, their London Fog Tea Latte (made with Earl Grey tea) is a flavorful and energizing alternative.
Are the Refreshers actually energizing?
Yes, the Starbucks Refreshers beverages do provide an energy boost, but the source might surprise you. The caffeine doesn’t come from coffee; it comes from the green coffee extract. This gives them a lighter, fruit-forward flavor while still delivering a noticeable pick-me-up. A Venti Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade Starbucks Refreshers beverage has about the same amount of caffeine as a tall coffee, making it a great option for a hot day when you want something sweet and stimulating without a heavy coffee taste.
How can I make my usual drink more energizing?
The simplest and most effective way is to add a shot of espresso. Whether you usually order a latte, a Frappuccino, or even a black coffee, tossing in an extra shot (or two) will significantly increase the caffeine content. You can also switch your base. For example, if you order a latte, ask for it to be made with Blonde Espresso, which has a slightly higher caffeine concentration than their signature espresso roast. These small tweaks can transform your regular order into one of the most effective 8 Starbucks drinks for energy: 11 stimulating picks.
I’m sensitive to caffeine, what’s a good low-caffeine option for a small boost?
If you’re sensitive, I’d recommend starting with a Short or Tall size of a latte made with a single shot of espresso. This gives you control over the dose. A Tall Caffè Latte has about 75 mg of caffeine, which is a much gentler lift. You could also opt for a Chai Tea Latte or a Hot Chocolate (which has a very small amount of caffeine from the chocolate), both of which provide a comforting, mild stimulation. Always let your barista know if you have concerns, and you can even ask for half-caffeinated or decaf shots to mix in.