A Latte of Holiday Cheer | Kaylynn O’Curran

A Latte of Holiday Cheer

by Kaylynn O’Curran

The holidays have come at last. As scary and expensive as these days might be for you (facing judgmental family members that you have to buy expensive gifts for) there is a hopeful light at the end of the tunnel. In typical American fashion, this light is peppermint-flavored, because duh—that’s the only important holiday flavor (almost as important as the pumpkin spice that is forcibly shoved down your throat every fall). Of course, Starbucks, the shop that quite literally keeps us all running, also has a variety of holiday treats. This includes food and drinks, also known as an exciting holiday spiced adventure for your taste buds. The drinks included this season include the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha (my personal favorite), Chestnut Praline Chai Tea Latte, Caramel Brûlée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Eggnog Latte, Holiday Spice Flat White, and Gingerbread Latte—the list goes on. According to Starbucks, “the Toasted White Chocolate Mocha highlights espresso and steamed milk, mingling with the flavors of caramelized white chocolate, all topped with whipped cream and candied cranberry sugar.” But of course the classic Peppermint Mocha, also available as a hot chocolate, is there to stay, with a classic combination of bittersweet cocoa and a lively peppermint zing with espresso and steamed milk, topped with whipped cream and melt-in-your-mouth dark chocolate curls.

There are also some good holiday treats this year. The Holiday Turkey & Stuffing Panini is a sliced turkey breast topped with cranberry-herb stuffing, savory herbs and turkey gravy, served on warm and toasty ciabatta roll. The other classic holiday sandwich is the Carved Ham, Egg and Swiss Breakfast Sandwich, a carved maple-glazed ham paired with creamy Swiss cheese and egg on Starbucks’ signature croissant bun. But the fun doesn’t stop there; at this time of year, Starbucks is in the mood for giving. The Starbucks For Life game has begun, and you could win anything and everything. The prizes included are mugs, bonus points, free menu items, and a variety of other things. However you do need to have a Starbucks account to participate—possibly a very dangerous move that could get you addicted to coffee. But I’d say it’s worth it! Whatever merry mood you’re in, Starbucks has got you covered this season. Happy holiday coffee time!