Coffee enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the seasonal menu changes at Starbucks, craving both the cherished classics and new offerings. This season’s Pumpkin Spice Latte returns alongside fresh additions that launched on March 3 as part of the chain’s spring menu. This lineup features a balance between beloved staples and surprising new creations.
As a former Starbucks barista, I sampled six of the core beverages from this spring lineup to determine which are truly worth the excitement—and which might make you reconsider your home brewing options. Whether your taste leans towards green tea, cold brew, or all things coconut, there’s likely a drink here for you. However, exercise caution on a few selections that might not justify the expense.
What is the best Starbucks spring coconut drink?
Surprisingly, my top coconut drink was the new Ube Coconut Macchiato. Ube is not entirely new to the Starbucks menu, having debuted at Reserve locations in 2025 before becoming available nationwide. It stood out because it features a delicious sweet-and-salty coconut topping that is wonderfully crispy and balanced. The striking deep mauve ube topping provides a sweet, almost candy-like flavor reminiscent of bubblegum. While its thickness may make sipping through it a challenge, this drink is undoubtedly the most delightful coconut option. Since the ube coconut cold foam is only available for a limited time, don’t miss out on this one.
My second favorite was the Toasted Coconut Cream Cold Brew. I found this to be significantly better than the latte option (more on that later), as it truly captured the essence of coconut. The cold brew is sweetened only with vanilla, while the cold foam topping adds a rich coconut flavor. Its whipped cream-like texture made the drink feel indulgent without being overly dessert-like. Just keep in mind that as the foam melts, you’ll get the full flavor only with every few sips, so consider stirring it from the beginning for a more uniform experience. You could also enhance the tropical vibe by swapping out some or all of the vanilla syrups for coconut syrup.
While I was eager to try the new Toasted Coconut Latte, it ultimately disappointed. Perhaps the hot version did not capture the warm-weather spirit I was expecting. The coconut flavor was subtle and the drink was excessively sweet. It reminded me of the Caramel Brulée Latte from the Starbucks holiday menu, and while it was comforting, it didn’t provide the refreshing taste of spring I hoped for. The toasted coconut syrup and toasted coconut cold foam will remain available year-round, making it worthwhile to experiment with them in more bitter creations, such as an Americano, or even trying the latte with a coconut milk base.
What is the best Starbucks spring lavender drink?
I have long cherished Starbucks’s iced chai, and as a former barista, I can confirm that many customers have desired a chai concentrate they can customize. Luckily, Starbucks has introduced a new chai base, allowing patrons to adjust the sweetness and spice levels in this warm-spiced mix filled with black tea, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and honey.
My first taste of this new base was in the revitalized Iced Lavender Cream Chai. Right away, I appreciated that the spices were more pronounced compared to the original formula. However, it still leaned towards overly sweet for my preference. The app didn’t provide an option to modify the chai’s sweetness, but users can reduce the default four pumps of Classic syrup. For a better balance, I recommend requesting two pumps instead (for a grande), which lets the chai’s flavors shine, especially since it’s topped with sweetened, lavender-infused cold foam. Consider substituting vanilla, cinnamon, or brown sugar for the syrup to enhance the drink’s overall flavor.
Returning for another season is the Iced Lavender Cream Matcha, which pleasantly surprised me. Although the lavender topping was rather faint on top of the sweet, creamy matcha base, a more generous swirl would likely create a better flavor balance. I believe the fragrant, floral notes of lavender pair beautifully with the creamy green tea beneath. Again, I recommend reducing the amount of Classic syrup to decrease sweetness.
The Lavender Frappuccino, while visually appealing, ended up being my least favorite. The essence of lavender captures the spirit of spring, making this annual favorite a hit—but if you aren’t fond of potent floral flavors, it may not be for you. Personally, I’m surprised to see such niche drinks on the menu while classics like the Java Chip and Caramel Ribbon Crunch Crème have been discontinued. As for taste, the Frappuccino mainly consists of milk, ice, and overly sweet lavender flavor, lacking complexity. However, if you enjoy floral teas and herbal lattes, you may find it reminiscent of a frozen London fog.
The TLDR: What to buy—and what to skip at Starbucks
My top picks from the Starbucks spring menu are the Ube Coconut Macchiato and the Iced Lavender Cream Chai. For a seasonal drink with lower sugar content, consider opting for the Toasted Coconut Cream Cold Brew, or a hot or iced chai with customized sweetness and spice levels.
I recommend avoiding the Lavender Frappuccino unless you have a penchant for very sweet beverages and an affinity for flowery flavors. While most drinks tend towards the sweet side, they can be adjusted for a more pleasant experience, particularly the Iced Lavender Cream Matcha and Toasted Coconut Latte.
Key Takeaways
- The Ube Coconut Macchiato is a standout coconut drink not to be missed.
- For a less sweet option, try the Toasted Coconut Cream Cold Brew.
- The Iced Lavender Cream Chai offers a customizable sweetness level for chai lovers.
- Consider adjusting syrup levels to enhance flavor balance across the menu.
- Avoid the Lavender Frappuccino if you’re sensitive to floral flavors or sweetness.
FAQ
What is the seasonal menu launch date at Starbucks?
The spring menu at Starbucks launched on March 3.
Are the Ube Coconut Macchiato and Toasted Coconut Cream Cold Brew permanent menu items?
The Ube Coconut Cold Foam is available for a limited time, while the toasted coconut components will be around all year.
Can I customize my drink at Starbucks?
Yes, Starbucks allows you to adjust sweetness and flavor levels in most of its beverages.
Are there any new flavors in the spring menu?
Yes, the spring menu introduces new flavors like the Ube Coconut Macchiato and Toasted Coconut Cream Cold Brew.
