If you believe you have exhausted every option on the official Starbucks menu, think again. The Starbucks secret menu is a thriving, community-driven collection of custom drinks that baristas can craft on request — provided you know exactly what to ask for. From visually stunning Frappuccinos to light and fruity Refreshers, and from cozy espresso-based lattes to indulgent dessert-inspired beverages, these off-menu creations represent the full spectrum of what Starbucks is capable of producing.
This guide organises all 17 drinks into three intuitive categories — Decadent Frappuccinos, Fruity & Refreshing Drinks, and Cozy Lattes & Hot Beverages — so you can zero in on exactly the kind of experience you are after. Each entry includes a full ingredient list, step-by-step preparation instructions, pro tips, and quick answers to the most common questions.
How to Order Secret Menu Drinks: Because these drinks are not listed on any official menu, always bring the full recipe with you or have it ready on your phone. Politely walk your barista through the ingredients and customisations, and be prepared to pay for any add-ons separately.
Quick Reference: All 17 Drinks at a Glance
| Drink | Category | Approx. Calories | Key Flavour Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mermaid Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 400 | Blue raspberry, lavender, vanilla |
| S’mores Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 420 | Chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker |
| Cookie Crumble Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 450 | Mocha, chocolate cookies, vanilla |
| Chocolate Covered Strawberry Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 460 | Strawberry, chocolate |
| Chai Crème Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 380 | Chai spice, cream, cinnamon |
| Birthday Cake Frappuccino | Frappuccino | 410 | Vanilla, hazelnut, sprinkles |
| Pink Drink | Refresher | 350 | Strawberry acai, coconut milk |
| Rainbow Drink | Refresher | 300 | Mixed tropical refreshers |
| Strawberry Açaí Refresher | Refresher | 140 | Açaí, fresh strawberry |
| Nutella Mocha | Hot Beverage | 350 | Espresso, hazelnut, chocolate |
| Pumpkin Spice Latte | Hot Beverage | 450 | Espresso, pumpkin, autumn spices |
| Honey Almondmilk Flat White | Hot Beverage | 220 | Espresso, almond milk, honey |
| Pistachio Latte | Hot Beverage | 350 | Espresso, pistachio, whipped cream |
| Nutty Irishman | Hot Beverage | 320 | Espresso, hazelnut, steamed milk |
| Lavender Latte | Hot Beverage | 250 | Espresso, lavender, steamed milk |
| Tiramisu Latte | Hot Beverage | 400 | Espresso, tiramisu syrup, cocoa |
| Matcha Green Tea Latte | Hot/Iced | 280 | Matcha, steamed milk |
Part One: Decadent Frappuccinos
Frappuccinos are the crown jewel of the Starbucks secret menu. Blended, chilled, and generously topped with whipped cream, these drinks are as much a visual treat as they are a flavour experience.
1. The Mermaid Frappuccino
Bright turquoise with a swirl of purple, the Mermaid Frappuccino is one of the most visually striking drinks on the secret menu. It is built on a vanilla bean Frappuccino base, infused with blue raspberry syrup and finished with a pump of lavender syrup for a dreamy, floral contrast. Topped with whipped cream and optional edible glitter, it is as much a social media moment as it is a beverage.
Nutrition: ~400 cal | Sugar: 50 g | Fat: 18 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vanilla bean Frappuccino base
- 1–2 pumps blue raspberry syrup
- 1 pump lavender syrup
- Whipped cream
- Edible glitter (optional)
How to Make It:
- Order a vanilla bean Frappuccino in your preferred size.
- Request 1–2 pumps of blue raspberry syrup blended into the base.
- Ask for 1 pump of lavender syrup to be added for contrast.
- Top with whipped cream and, if desired, a sprinkle of edible glitter.
Pro Tips:
- Adjust the number of syrup pumps to control sweetness.
- Sugar-free syrups are available at most locations if you prefer a lighter version.
- This drink is best served cold — it does not translate well as a hot beverage.
2. The S’mores Frappuccino
Few flavour combinations are as universally beloved as the campfire s’more, and this Frappuccino captures that nostalgia perfectly. A rich coffee Frappuccino base is layered with chocolate and marshmallow syrups, then crowned with whipped cream and crushed graham crackers. The result is a sweet, creamy drink with a faint hint of toasted marshmallow that will transport you straight to a summer evening around the fire.
Nutrition: ~420 cal | Sugar: 55 g | Fat: 20 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coffee Frappuccino base
- 1 pump chocolate syrup
- 1 pump marshmallow syrup
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers for topping
How to Make It:
- Order a coffee Frappuccino in your preferred size.
- Add one pump each of chocolate and marshmallow syrup before blending.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Top with whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of crushed graham crackers.
- Add an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup for additional indulgence.
Pro Tips:
- Request extra whipped cream for a more decadent finish.
- Ask for a decaf base if you want the flavour without the caffeine.
- A little extra milk will thin the texture if you prefer a less dense drink.
3. The Cookie Crumble Frappuccino
This drink is a love letter to chocolate cookies. A mocha Frappuccino base is blended with crushed chocolate cookies and a touch of vanilla, then finished with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle. Each sip delivers a rich, chocolatey flavour punctuated by satisfying crunchy bits — a nostalgic treat that recalls childhood afternoons spent baking.
Nutrition: ~450 cal | Sugar: 48 g | Fat: 18 g | Protein: 7 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mocha Frappuccino base
- 2–3 crushed chocolate cookies
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle for topping
How to Make It:
- Order a mocha Frappuccino in your preferred size.
- Ask for 2–3 crushed chocolate cookies to be blended into the base.
- Blend until smooth, ensuring the cookie pieces are fully incorporated.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Pro Tips:
- Use your favourite brand of chocolate cookies for a personalised twist.
- Request extra cookie crumbles on top for added crunch.
- Swap dairy milk for almond or oat milk to make it vegan-friendly.
4. The Chocolate Covered Strawberry Frappuccino
Inspired by the classic confection, this Frappuccino combines a strawberry base with chocolate syrup for a drink that is simultaneously fruity and indulgent. Topped with whipped cream and a generous chocolate drizzle, it is a visual showstopper that tastes every bit as good as it looks — perfect for spring and summer.
Nutrition: ~460 cal | Sugar: 55 g | Fat: 18 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strawberry Frappuccino base
- 1 pump chocolate syrup
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle for topping
How to Make It:
- Order a strawberry Frappuccino in your preferred size.
- Add one pump of chocolate syrup before blending.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Pro Tips:
- Request extra chocolate syrup for a more intense flavour.
- Fresh strawberry slices make an elegant garnish.
- All ingredients are naturally gluten-free; simply confirm with your barista.
5. The Chai Crème Frappuccino
For those who love the warming complexity of chai spice but prefer a chilled beverage, this Frappuccino is the answer. Traditional chai tea is blended with milk and ice into a smooth, creamy drink, then topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. The balance of warm spice and cool creaminess makes it equally appealing on a hot afternoon or a crisp autumn day.
Nutrition: ~380 cal | Sugar: 37 g | Fat: 14 g | Protein: 5 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed chai tea (cooled)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup ice
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon for topping
How to Make It:
- Brew a cup of chai tea and allow it to cool completely.
- Blend the cooled chai tea with milk and ice until smooth.
- Pour into a cup and top with whipped cream.
- Finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Pro Tips:
- Substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust sweetness by adding honey or a flavoured syrup.
- Note that chai tea contains caffeine; request a decaffeinated chai blend if needed.
6. The Birthday Cake Frappuccino
Every day is worth celebrating with this playful, dessert-inspired Frappuccino. A vanilla bean base is enhanced with hazelnut syrup and finished with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles, creating a drink that tastes remarkably like a slice of birthday cake. It is a fun, sweet treat that appeals to all ages.
Nutrition: ~410 cal | Sugar: 50 g | Fat: 15 g | Protein: 5 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vanilla bean Frappuccino base
- 1 pump hazelnut syrup
- Whipped cream
- Rainbow sprinkles for topping
How to Make It:
- Order a vanilla bean Frappuccino in your preferred size.
- Add one pump of hazelnut syrup before blending.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Top with whipped cream and a generous handful of rainbow sprinkles.
Pro Tips:
- Request extra sprinkles for a more festive presentation.
- A dash of vanilla extract can deepen the cake-like flavour.
- This drink is entirely customisable — ask your barista about additional toppings.
Part Two: Fruity & Refreshing Drinks
When the weather calls for something light, vibrant, and thirst-quenching, the Refresher-based secret menu drinks are the ideal choice. These beverages are lower in calories than Frappuccinos and deliver a bright, fruity energy that is perfect for warm days.
7. The Pink Drink
Perhaps the most famous entry on the entire Starbucks secret menu, the Pink Drink has earned its iconic status through a combination of striking colour and genuinely delicious flavour. A Strawberry Acai Refresher is combined with coconut milk in place of water, then finished with fresh strawberry slices. The result is a light, creamy, blush-coloured beverage that is as photogenic as it is refreshing.
Nutrition: ~350 cal | Sugar: 45 g | Fat: 10 g | Protein: 5 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Strawberry Acai Refresher
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
How to Make It:
- Order a Strawberry Acai Refresher in your preferred size.
- Request coconut milk in place of water for the base.
- Ask for fresh strawberry slices to be added.
- Stir gently and enjoy.
Pro Tips:
- Order with less ice for a stronger, more concentrated flavour.
- The Pink Drink is not on the official menu — bring the recipe or describe it clearly to your barista.
- Additional fruits or flavoured syrups can be added to personalise the drink further.
8. The Rainbow Drink
A celebration of colour and flavour, the Rainbow Drink is made by carefully layering three different iced Refreshers in a clear cup to create a stunning ombre effect. The combination of Strawberry Acai, Mango Dragonfruit, and Passion Fruit Refreshers produces a drink that is as visually impressive as it is delicious — a true crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition: ~300 cal | Sugar: 40 g | Fat: 0 g | Protein: 0 g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Strawberry Acai Refresher
- 1/2 cup Mango Dragonfruit Refresher
- 1/2 cup Passion Fruit Refresher
- Ice
How to Make It:
- Fill a clear cup with ice to the top.
- Slowly pour the Strawberry Acai Refresher as the bottom layer.
- Gently add the Mango Dragonfruit Refresher as the middle layer.
- Carefully top with the Passion Fruit Refresher to complete the rainbow.
- Serve with a straw and admire before stirring.
Pro Tips:
- Ask your barista to pour each layer carefully to keep the colours distinct.
- A tall cup emphasises the rainbow effect far more effectively than a short one.
- Caffeine-free Refresher options are available if you prefer a non-caffeinated version.
- Natural light is your best friend when photographing this drink.
9. The Strawberry Açaí Refresher
A straightforward but deeply satisfying drink, the Strawberry Açaí Refresher is the lightest option on this list at just 140 calories. Açaí berry juice is poured over ice and topped with fresh strawberry slices, creating a thirst-quenching, energising beverage that is perfect for long, hot afternoons. It is entirely caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those who want a flavourful pick-me-up without the stimulant.
Nutrition: ~140 cal | Sugar: 20 g | Fat: 0 g | Protein: 1 g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup açaí berry juice
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Ice
How to Make It:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour the açaí berry juice over the ice.
- Add fresh strawberry slices for flavour and decoration.
- Stir and serve immediately.
Pro Tips:
- A splash of lemonade adds a pleasant zesty dimension.
- Other berries or citrus fruits can be substituted or added alongside the strawberries.
- This drink is naturally caffeine-free, making it suitable for all times of day.
Part Three: Cozy Lattes & Hot Beverages
For those who prefer warmth and depth over icy refreshment, the espresso-based and tea-based secret menu drinks offer a rich, comforting experience. These beverages range from the nutty and indulgent to the floral and serene.
10. The Nutella Mocha
Nutella enthusiasts, this one was made for you. Rich espresso is combined with velvety steamed milk and a generous spoonful of Nutella, then finished with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle. The result is a warm, deeply chocolatey drink with a pronounced hazelnut character — essentially a liquid chocolate hazelnut cookie in a cup.
Nutrition: ~350 cal | Sugar: 39 g | Fat: 15 g | Protein: 8 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle for topping
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- While the espresso brews, heat the milk until steaming but not boiling.
- In a cup, stir the espresso and Nutella together until fully combined.
- Pour in the steamed milk, stirring to incorporate.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Pro Tips:
- Use a milk frother to create a luxuriously textured foam.
- Adjust the quantity of Nutella to control the intensity of the hazelnut flavour.
- This drink works equally well iced — simply add ice after mixing the espresso and Nutella.
- A decaf espresso base or hot chocolate can be substituted for a caffeine-free version.
11. The Pumpkin Spice Latte
A seasonal icon that has transcended its autumn origins, the Pumpkin Spice Latte combines espresso with steamed milk, real pumpkin purée, and a blend of warming spices. Topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, it is the quintessential cosy drink — sweet, spiced, and deeply comforting. While it is typically a seasonal offering beginning in late summer, knowing the recipe means you can request it year-round.
Nutrition: ~450 cal | Sugar: 39 g | Fat: 15 g | Protein: 9 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée
- Pumpkin spice syrup (sweetened to taste)
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon for topping
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso and steam the milk simultaneously.
- In a cup, whisk the pumpkin purée into the espresso until smooth.
- Add the steamed milk and stir well to combine.
- Sweeten with pumpkin spice syrup to taste.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Pro Tips:
- Request extra pumpkin spice syrup for a more pronounced spiced flavour.
- An iced version is equally enjoyable on warmer autumn days.
- Reduce or eliminate the syrup, or request a sugar substitute, to lower the sugar content.
12. The Honey Almondmilk Flat White
A refined, dairy-free take on the classic flat white, this drink pairs two shots of espresso with frothy steamed almond milk and a touch of honey. The result is a smooth, nutty, subtly sweet beverage that delivers a full coffee experience without any dairy. It is an excellent choice for those who want something sophisticated and satisfying without the heaviness of a cream-based drink.
Nutrition: ~220 cal | Sugar: 12 g | Fat: 7 g | Protein: 5 g
Ingredients:
- 2 shots espresso
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1–2 teaspoons honey (to taste)
How to Make It:
- Brew two shots of espresso.
- Steam the almond milk until frothy and warm.
- Stir the honey into the brewed espresso until fully dissolved.
- Pour the steamed almond milk over the espresso.
- Finish with an optional extra drizzle of honey on top.
Pro Tips:
- Maple syrup is an excellent substitute for honey.
- A dash of cinnamon adds a pleasant warming note.
- Decaf espresso is available on request.
13. The Pistachio Latte
The drink that inspired the title’s promise of #9 being unmissable, the Pistachio Latte is a genuinely unique flavour experience. Rich espresso meets steamed milk and pistachio syrup in a drink that is nutty, creamy, and deeply satisfying. The whipped cream and crushed pistachio topping add both texture and visual appeal, making this one of the most memorable lattes on the secret menu.
Nutrition: ~350 cal | Sugar: 30 g | Fat: 14 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 1 pump pistachio syrup
- Whipped cream
- Crushed pistachios for topping
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Steam the milk until frothy and hot.
- Stir the pistachio syrup into the espresso.
- Pour the steamed milk over the espresso and syrup mixture.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.
Pro Tips:
- Experiment with the number of pistachio syrup pumps to find your preferred sweetness level.
- Add an extra shot of espresso for a bolder coffee flavour.
- This drink can be served iced — simply add ice after combining the espresso and syrup.
- Availability may be seasonal; check with your local Starbucks.
14. The Nutty Irishman
Named for its Irish cream-inspired flavour profile, the Nutty Irishman is a cosy, indulgent espresso drink that combines a shot of espresso with steamed milk and two pumps of hazelnut syrup. Topped with whipped cream, it delivers a warm, nutty sweetness that transforms a standard latte into something genuinely special — ideal for a slow afternoon pick-me-up.
Nutrition: ~320 cal | Sugar: 28 g | Fat: 10 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 2 pumps hazelnut syrup
- Whipped cream
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Steam the milk until frothy.
- Stir the hazelnut syrup into the espresso.
- Pour the steamed milk over the espresso and syrup mixture.
- Top with whipped cream before serving.
Pro Tips:
- A sprinkle of cocoa powder on top adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Almond milk enhances the nutty character of this drink.
- A decaf espresso base is available on request.
- To make it vegan, substitute the milk with any plant-based alternative.
15. The Lavender Latte
Floral, soothing, and quietly elegant, the Lavender Latte is unlike anything else on this list. Smooth espresso is combined with steamed milk and a pump of lavender syrup, producing a drink that is aromatic, gently sweet, and genuinely calming. It is the ideal choice for a morning that calls for something a little more serene than a standard latte.
Nutrition: ~250 cal | Sugar: 20 g | Fat: 7 g | Protein: 6 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 1 pump lavender syrup
- Whipped cream (optional)
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Steam the milk until hot and frothy.
- Stir the lavender syrup into the espresso.
- Pour the steamed milk over the espresso mixture.
- Top with optional whipped cream or lavender-infused sprinkles.
Pro Tips:
- Ask your barista about adding dried lavender sprigs for an intensified floral aroma.
- This drink pairs beautifully with a sweet pastry for a relaxed brunch experience.
- It can be served iced and is generally available year-round at most locations.
16. The Tiramisu Latte
Italy’s most beloved dessert, reimagined as a Starbucks latte. Espresso is combined with steamed milk and tiramisu syrup — a blend that evokes the mascarpone creaminess and coffee richness of the classic dessert — then finished with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder. It is rich, decadent, and deeply satisfying, particularly on days when you need something that feels genuinely special.
Nutrition: ~400 cal | Sugar: 32 g | Fat: 18 g | Protein: 7 g
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 cup steamed milk
- 2 pumps tiramisu syrup
- Whipped cream
- Cocoa powder for dusting
How to Make It:
- Brew a shot of espresso.
- Steam the milk until frothy.
- Stir the tiramisu syrup into the espresso.
- Pour the steamed milk over the coffee mixture.
- Top with whipped cream and dust generously with cocoa powder.
Pro Tips:
- Request extra tiramisu syrup for a more pronounced dessert flavour.
- Pair with a sweet pastry for the ultimate dessert-café experience.
- Decaf espresso and plant-based milk alternatives are both available on request.
17. The Matcha Green Tea Latte
A favourite among health-conscious coffee drinkers and matcha enthusiasts alike, the Matcha Green Tea Latte is a clean, energising alternative to espresso-based drinks. High-quality matcha powder is whisked with a small amount of hot water to form a smooth paste, then combined with steamed milk and a touch of sweetener. The result is a vibrant green, creamy beverage that provides a calm, sustained energy boost — without the jitteriness sometimes associated with coffee.
Nutrition: ~280 cal | Sugar: 18 g | Fat: 8 g | Protein: 7 g
Ingredients:
- 1–2 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1 cup steamed milk
- Sweetener to taste
How to Make It:
- Whisk the matcha powder with a small amount of hot water in a bowl until a smooth, lump-free paste forms.
- Steam the milk until hot and frothy.
- Combine the matcha paste with the steamed milk and stir well.
- Add sweetener to taste, if desired.
- Serve hot, or pour over ice for a refreshing iced version.
Pro Tips:
- Oat milk creates an exceptionally creamy texture that complements matcha particularly well.
- Adjust the sweetness freely — this drink is equally enjoyable unsweetened.
- Matcha contains caffeine, but it delivers a gentler, more sustained energy than espresso.
Conclusion
The Starbucks secret menu is a testament to the creativity of the coffee community and the flexibility of Starbucks baristas. Whether you are drawn to the theatrical colour of the Mermaid Frappuccino, the nostalgic warmth of the S’mores Frappuccino, or the serene elegance of the Lavender Latte, there is a hidden gem here for every palate and every mood.
The key to a successful secret menu order lies in preparation: know your recipe, communicate it clearly, and be patient with your barista. With a little effort, your next Starbucks visit could yield your new favourite drink — one that nobody else at the counter even knew existed.
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