Starbucks has become a global coffee giant, known for its tasty drinks and treats. Many people love their products but can’t always visit a store.
That’s where homemade versions come in handy.
You can make many popular Starbucks items at home with simple ingredients. This saves money and lets you enjoy your favorites anytime.
From coffee drinks to baked goods, there are lots of recipes to try. Making these copycat recipes is fun and lets you customize them to your taste.
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte
You can make a tasty Starbucks-style pumpkin spice latte at home. Start by brewing some espresso or strong coffee.
Mix pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a pan. Heat this mixture to create a flavorful pumpkin syrup.
Warm and froth some milk. Pour the coffee into a mug, add the pumpkin syrup, and top with the frothed milk.
For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top. Enjoy your homemade fall treat!
2. Caramel Macchiato
You can make a tasty caramel macchiato at home just like Starbucks. Start with a base of vanilla syrup in your cup. Add steamed milk next, leaving room for espresso on top.
Pour freshly brewed espresso over the milk to create a beautiful layered effect. Finish by drizzling caramel sauce in a crosshatch pattern on top.
For an iced version, use cold milk instead of steamed and add ice cubes. The flavors blend perfectly for a sweet, creamy coffee treat.
With practice, you’ll master this popular drink and save money by skipping the coffee shop. Experiment with different syrups and toppings to make it your own.
3. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
You can make this popular Starbucks drink at home. Start by mixing vanilla syrup with cold brew coffee in a glass. Fill the glass with ice, leaving some space at the top.
For the sweet cream, combine half-and-half with vanilla syrup. Pour this mixture slowly over the iced coffee. The cream will create swirls as it mixes with the cold brew.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less vanilla syrup. You can also change the ratio of milk to cream in the sweet cream mixture to suit your taste.
This refreshing drink is perfect for warm days. It offers a smooth, creamy texture with a hint of vanilla sweetness.
4. Mocha Frappuccino
You can make a delicious Mocha Frappuccino at home that rivals Starbucks. Start by blending ice, cold coffee, milk, chocolate syrup, and a touch of sugar.
For extra creaminess, add a banana or a splash of condensed milk. A pinch of xanthan gum will give it that signature smooth texture.
Top your drink with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. For a healthier version, try using cocoa powder and a frozen banana instead of chocolate syrup.
Experiment with different types of milk or coffee to suit your taste. You can even add a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost.
5. Chai Tea Latte
You can make a tasty chai tea latte at home that rivals Starbucks. Start with a chai tea concentrate or brew strong chai tea using tea bags.
Heat milk of your choice – dairy or plant-based both work well. Mix the tea and warm milk in a 1:1 ratio.
Add a touch of honey for sweetness if desired. For a frothy texture, use a milk frother or whisk vigorously.
Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost. This homemade version lets you control the sweetness and spice levels to your liking.
Enjoy your cozy chai latte hot, or pour it over ice for a refreshing cold version.
6. Strawberry Acai Refresher
You can make this popular Starbucks drink at home. Start by simmering strawberries, white grape juice, and sugar in a saucepan for 10 minutes.
Strain the mixture and let it cool. Add green tea or coffee, and more water to dilute. Sweeten to taste with simple syrup or honey.
Pour over ice and add fresh or freeze-dried strawberry slices for garnish. You can also include passion fruit puree for extra flavor.
This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days. It’s easy to make in big batches and keep in the fridge for later.
7. Flat White
A Flat White is a popular Starbucks espresso drink. It features a double shot of espresso and steamed milk. The key is in the preparation and ratio of ingredients.
To make one at home, start by brewing two shots of espresso. Use an espresso machine or a moka pot for best results. Pour the espresso into a mug.
Next, steam whole milk until it’s hot and has a silky texture. Aim for about 150°F. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, creating a thin layer of microfoam on top.
The result is a smooth, velvety coffee with a strong espresso flavor. It’s less frothy than a cappuccino but creamier than a latte. You can add sugar if you like, but many enjoy it unsweetened.
8. Java Chip Frappuccino
You can make this popular Starbucks drink at home with a few simple ingredients. Start by blending cold coffee, milk, and ice in a blender.
Add chocolate syrup and chocolate chips for that signature java chip flavor. Blend until smooth, making sure the chocolate chips are well mixed.
Pour the mixture into a glass and top with whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle more chocolate syrup on top.
This homemade version lets you control the sweetness and chocolate intensity. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste. Enjoy your custom Java Chip Frappuccino anytime!
9. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
This popular Starbucks drink is easy to make at home. You’ll need espresso, oat milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Start by mixing brown sugar and cinnamon in a glass. Add hot espresso shots and stir until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture into a shaker with ice and shake well.
Fill a cup with ice and strain the shaken espresso over it. Top with cold oat milk for a creamy finish. The result is a frothy, sweet, and caffeinated treat.
You can adjust the sweetness by changing the amount of brown sugar. For extra flavor, try adding a dash of vanilla extract.
10. White Chocolate Mocha
You can make a delicious white chocolate mocha at home that rivals Starbucks. Start by brewing a strong espresso or coffee.
Melt white chocolate chips with a bit of milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.
Pour the espresso into a mug and add the melted white chocolate mixture. Stir to combine.
Heat milk to about 150°F and froth it using your preferred method. Pour the frothed milk over the coffee and white chocolate.
Top with whipped cream for an indulgent treat. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.
11. Cinnamon Dolce Latte
You can make a tasty Starbucks-style Cinnamon Dolce Latte at home. Start by brewing strong coffee or espresso.
Heat milk in a pan until steaming. Mix in cinnamon dolce syrup for sweetness and flavor. Froth the milk with a whisk or frother.
Pour the coffee into a mug, then add the frothed milk. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra spice.
For a special treat, add some whipped cream on top. This cozy drink is perfect for chilly days when you want something sweet and comforting.
12. Mango Dragonfruit Refresher
You can make this popular Starbucks drink at home. Start by mixing dragonfruit powder with water until it dissolves.
Add mango juice, green tea, and more water to a pitcher. Pour in the dragonfruit mixture and stir well.
Fill a glass with ice and pour the refresher over it. For extra flair, add some diced dragonfruit on top.
This homemade version is refreshing and fruity. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste.
13. Peppermint Mocha
You can make a tasty Starbucks-style Peppermint Mocha at home. Start by brewing strong coffee or espresso.
Mix cocoa powder with hot water to form a paste. Add this to your mug with the coffee.
Pour in some milk and peppermint syrup. You can make peppermint syrup by boiling sugar and water, then adding peppermint extract.
Stir everything together and heat until steaming. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if you like.
For a cold version, blend the ingredients with ice. This refreshing drink is perfect for winter or summer.
14. Toasted White Chocolate Mocha
You can make a delicious Toasted White Chocolate Mocha at home. Start by melting white chocolate chips with a small amount of milk in a pot over medium-low heat. Whisk until smooth.
Add some caramel sauce to the white chocolate mixture for extra flavor. Brew two shots of espresso or make strong coffee.
Pour the white chocolate mixture into a mug, then add the espresso. Stir to combine. Top with steamed milk and froth it for a creamy texture.
For a finishing touch, you can garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt. This homemade version rivals the Starbucks original.
15. Pineapple Matcha Drink
You can easily make this Starbucks favorite at home. Start by blending pineapple chunks and ginger until smooth. Mix in matcha powder and a sweetener of your choice.
Pour coconut milk into a glass filled with ice. Add the pineapple-matcha mixture and stir well. For extra flavor, make a pineapple-ginger syrup by simmering pineapple juice, sugar, and ginger.
This refreshing drink combines tropical pineapple with earthy matcha. It’s perfect for hot summer days. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Try using different plant-based milks for variety.
16. Dark Roast Coffee
Starbucks Dark Roast Coffee offers a bold and intense flavor. You can recreate this at home with the right beans and brewing method.
Start by choosing Starbucks Espresso Roast or Verona beans. These are 100% Arabica and provide a rich taste.
Grind the beans just before brewing for the freshest flavor. Use a burr grinder for consistent results.
For espresso, use 1/4 cup of beans per shot. Brew for 25-30 seconds to avoid bitterness or sourness.
If using a drip machine, add more grounds than usual to mimic the strong Starbucks taste. Adjust to your preference.
Serve hot in your favorite mug. For an iced version, brew strong and pour over ice.
17. Irish Cream Cold Brew
You can make Starbucks’ Irish Cream Cold Brew at home. This seasonal drink combines cold brew coffee with Irish cream flavors.
To start, brew some cold coffee. Mix heavy cream, Irish cream syrup, and powdered sugar for the foam topping.
Fill a glass with ice and add Irish cream syrup. Pour in the cold brew, leaving room at the top. Spoon the cream foam on top.
Finish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder. You’ll get sweet and creamy flavors without too many calories.
This copycat recipe lets you enjoy the popular winter drink year-round. It’s a tasty treat for coffee lovers.
18. Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
You can make this popular Starbucks drink at home. Start by preparing cold brew coffee and letting it steep overnight.
Mix caramel syrup with the cold brew and pour over ice. For the cream topping, combine heavy cream, milk, vanilla syrup, and a pinch of salt.
Froth the cream mixture until it’s light and fluffy. Carefully pour it over your iced coffee.
The result is a refreshing drink with rich coffee flavor, sweet caramel, and a creamy, salty topping. Stir before drinking to blend the layers together.
19. Matcha Green Tea Latte
You can make a tasty Starbucks-style matcha latte at home. Start with high-quality matcha powder and mix it with a small amount of hot water. Whisk until smooth.
Heat milk of your choice and froth it for a creamy texture. Pour the milk over the matcha mixture in a mug.
For an iced version, shake the matcha with cold milk and pour over ice. Add a touch of vanilla syrup if you like it sweeter.
This homemade version lets you control the sweetness and strength. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy this popular green tea drink anytime.
20. Pink Drink
You can make Starbucks’ famous Pink Drink at home with just a few ingredients. Start by brewing some Passion tea and letting it cool.
Mix the cooled tea with white grape juice and a little sugar. Add some coconut milk for creaminess.
Slice fresh strawberries and add them to your drink. For extra flavor, you can muddle the strawberries gently.
Pour the mixture over ice in a tall glass. Stir well and enjoy your homemade Pink Drink. It’s refreshing and pretty, just like the Starbucks version.
21. Espresso Macchiato
An Espresso Macchiato is a simple yet bold coffee drink. It consists of a shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk on top.
To make this at home, start by pulling a shot of espresso into a small cup. Then steam a small amount of milk until it’s frothy.
Carefully pour a dollop of the steamed milk onto the center of the espresso. This creates a “stain” or “mark” on the espresso’s surface.
The result is a strong coffee flavor with just a touch of creamy milk. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the taste of espresso but want a slight softening of its intensity.
22. Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte
You can make a tasty Starbucks-inspired Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte at home. Start with blonde espresso, which is lighter and smoother than regular espresso.
Add vanilla syrup to your espresso for sweetness. You can buy syrup or make it yourself with sugar, water, and vanilla.
Pour the mixture over ice in a 16-ounce glass. Top it off with cold 2% milk or your preferred milk alternative.
For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream. Stir and enjoy your homemade iced latte that rivals the Starbucks version.
23. Hazelnut Bianco Latte
You can make this tasty Starbucks drink at home.
Start by brewing a shot of espresso or strong coffee.
Heat milk and add white chocolate chips, stirring until melted.
Pour the milk mixture over your espresso.
Top with a spoonful of hazelnut spread and gently stir. The spread will create a swirl of nutty flavor.
For extra richness, add a dash of vanilla extract.
Adjust sweetness to your liking with sugar or syrup.
24. Caffè Americano
You can make a tasty Caffè Americano at home just like Starbucks.
Start by brewing a shot of espresso. Then, pour hot water into your favorite mug.
Slowly add the espresso to the hot water. This helps keep the crema intact. The crema is the light brown foam on top that adds flavor.
The typical ratio is one part espresso to two parts water. You can adjust this to suit your taste. Add more water for a milder drink or less for a stronger flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Caffè Americano right away while it’s hot. You’ve just created a coffee shop favorite in your own kitchen.
25. Shaken Iced Passion Tango Tea
You can make this refreshing Starbucks favorite at home.
Start by steeping passion tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes.
Let the tea cool, then pour it over ice in a cocktail shaker.
Shake well to chill the tea quickly.
Pour the shaken tea into a glass filled with ice. For extra flavor, add a splash of lemonade or a drizzle of honey.
This vibrant red drink is perfect for hot summer days. It’s caffeine-free and loaded with fruity flavor.
Understanding Starbucks Flavors
Starbucks uses a variety of ingredients and flavor combinations to create their signature drinks.
Let’s explore the key components and popular pairings that make Starbucks beverages so appealing.
Key Ingredients in Starbucks Recipes
Starbucks relies on high-quality coffee beans as the foundation for many drinks.
They also use different types of milk, including dairy and plant-based options.
Syrups play a big role in flavoring Starbucks beverages. Popular choices include:
- Vanilla
- Caramel
- Hazelnut
- Mocha
Whipped cream tops many drinks, adding richness and visual appeal. Sauces like caramel and mocha are often drizzled on top for extra flavor and decoration.
Starbucks also uses fruit juices and teas in some drinks. Apple juice features in their caramel apple cider, while passion fruit tea is used in colorful iced beverages.
Popular Starbucks Flavor Combinations
Caramel and coffee make a classic pairing in drinks like the Caramel Frappuccino. This blend balances the bold coffee taste with sweet caramel notes.
Vanilla syrup is versatile and mixes well with many flavors. It’s often used to enhance both hot and cold drinks, from lattes to iced teas.
Mocha, which combines chocolate and coffee flavors, is another fan favorite. It’s the star of drinks like the Mocha Frappuccino.
Fruit and tea combos are popular in Starbucks’ refreshers and iced teas. The Passion Tango Tea with vanilla syrup and soy milk creates the trendy “Blue Drink.”
For a cozy twist, cinnamon and apple flavors come together in the Caramel Apple Cider, perfect for chilly days.
Tips for Making Authentic Starbucks Drinks
Making Starbucks drinks at home can be fun and save you money.
You’ll need to pick good coffee beans and use the right milk. Here are some tips to help you make drinks that taste just like the ones from Starbucks.
Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
Start with fresh, high-quality coffee beans. Starbucks uses 100% arabica beans, so look for those.
Pick a roast that matches your drink – light roast for mild drinks, dark roast for strong ones.
Grind your beans right before brewing. Use a fine grind for espresso and a medium grind for drip coffee.
Store beans in an airtight container away from light and heat.
Try different blends to find your favorite. Starbucks Pike Place is a good all-around choice. For espresso drinks, try their Espresso Roast.
Milk and Non-Dairy Alternatives
Milk is key in many Starbucks drinks. For lattes and cappuccinos, use 2% milk for the right texture and taste. Whole milk makes drinks creamier, while skim milk is lighter.
Steam your milk to 150-160°F for the best flavor. Don’t let it get too hot or it will taste burnt. Use a thermometer to check the temp.
For non-dairy options, try soy, almond, or oat milk. These work well in most drinks. Coconut milk is good for tropical flavors.
Foam your milk by using a frother or shaking it in a jar. This adds a nice touch to lattes and macchiatos.