Starbucks gingerbread flavored coffee has become a popular holiday drink over the years. With its enticing aroma and flavor, it’s no wonder why. But what exactly gives this coffee its distinctly gingery, sweet taste? Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making Starbucks gingerbread coffee.
Main Ingredients
The primary ingredients that provide the gingerbread flavor are:
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Molasses
Ginger is essential for providing that spicy, zesty taste. Cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. Nutmeg provides a more subtle spiciness. Cloves enhance the overall flavor complexity. And molasses gives it that rich, almost caramel-like sweetness.
Variations
While ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and molasses form the base gingerbread flavor, Starbucks does offer some variations:
- Gingerbread Latte – The classic latte made with steamed milk and espresso and gingerbread syrup.
- Gingerbread Frappuccino – A frozen, blended version with gingerbread syrup and whipped cream.
- Gingerbread Cold Brew – Cold brew coffee with gingerbread flavoring.
- Gingerbread Crème – A sweeter creme frappuccino with gingerbread syrup.
So while the core gingerbread ingredients remain the same, customers can choose the preparation method based on their preferences.
Syrups
Starbucks gingerbread syrup is essential for adding concentrated gingerbread flavoring to their holiday drinks. The exact recipe is proprietary, but according to Starbucks, the main ingredients in the syrup include:
- Sugar
- Molasses
- Natural flavors (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
- Natural color
- Potassium sorbate (preservative)
- Citric acid
By dissolving the syrup in the coffee or milk base, it provides a quick way to get that gingerbread taste without having to add each individual spice.
Nutrition Facts
The nutrition facts can vary depending on the exact gingerbread coffee drink ordered. But in general, a 16 oz Gingerbread Latte made with 2% milk and no whipped cream or toppings contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugar | 41g |
| Protein | 10g |
As you can see, the beverage is high in carbohydrates and sugar due to the syrups used to flavor it. So those watching their sugar intake may want to enjoy it as an occasional treat. Adding whipped cream or toppings will also increase the calorie, fat, and sugar content further.
Ingredients To Avoid
While Starbucks gingerbread coffee contains many indulgent ingredients like syrups and sugar to make it taste like the holidays, here are some ingredients you won’t find:
- High fructose corn syrup
- Artificial flavors
- Artificial dyes
- Artificial preservatives
Starbucks does not use high fructose corn syrup or artificial additives in their gingerbread coffee line. The flavors come from natural ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and molasses.
Availability
Gingerbread coffee is a seasonal drink at Starbucks. It’s typically available for a limited time each holiday season from November through January. Some locations may sell out of gingerbread syrups sooner than others depending on demand.
The gingerbread offerings first appeared on the Starbucks holiday menu back in 2002. The earliest sightings each season generally pop up around the first week of November. But availability can vary year to year, so be sure to check your local Starbucks for the most accurate seasonal beverage timeline.
Ordering Tips
To get the strongest gingerbread flavor in your Starbucks coffee, here are some useful ordering tips:
- Ask for extra pumps of gingerbread syrup
- Add gingerbread sprinkles on top
- Substitute the classic syrup for gingerbread in any drink
- Get it made with almond or oat milk for a more pronounced spice flavor
Feel free to politely ask your barista to add some extra holiday magic into your gingerbread coffee. Most are happy to customize it to your liking.
Recreating at Home
Want to enjoy gingerbread coffee at home? Here’s a simple recipe you can make using common ingredients:
Ingredients
- 8 cups strong brewed coffee
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Milk or creamer (optional)
Instructions
- Brew a pot of nice and strong coffee. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, molasses and spices. Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
- Stir the spiced sugar mixture into the brewed coffee until well combined.
- Pour coffee into mugs and top with milk or creamer if desired.
- Garnish with extra cinnamon or gingerbread cookies!
This easy homemade version allows you to adjust the amounts of molasses and spices to your liking. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The Perfect Holiday Sipper
With its enticing gingery aroma, hint of spice and touch of sweetness, it’s easy to see why Starbucks gingerbread coffee has become such a seasonal staple. Using a combination of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and other natural flavors, this coffee really evokes the tastes of the holidays. Sipping this deliciously festive beverage is sure to get you in the spirit of the season.