Starbucks baristas share their underrated favorites – you can make any syrup into a ‘steamer’ if you know how to ask
DEDICATED Starbucks fans might have their orders memorized, or saved as a "favorite" in the app, so they don't even need to think about what they're getting.
If you've been ordering the same coffee for years, you're missing out on hundreds of unique drinks the Starbucks menu makes possible.
The long list might give you "decision paralysis," and if that's the case, get a suggestion from a real pro – a Starbucks barista.
Scary Mommy interviewed Starbucks baristas to ask for . You'll collect plenty of rewards stars in an attempt to try all their recommendations.
STAND-OUT SYRUPS
Many of the baristas felt Starbucks customers don't take enough advantage of the flavored syrups on the menu, especially in non-coffee drinks.
Stacy M, a barista in, Ohio told the outlet, "You can literally add pumps of any syrup we have."
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That list includes toffee nut, peppermint, raspberry, hazelnut, dark caramel sauce, and other syrups that might vary in availability depending on your store.
One way to use them is by doctoring up your hot chocolate and giving it a hazelnut or caramel twist.
You can also combine a hot chocolate with syrup and a shot of espresso for a personal spin on a mocha.
Or, try a steamer – something the Starbucks website describes as smooth, frothy, and luxurious.
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When you'd "rather not indulge in the rich flavor of our world-famous espresso," Starbucks offers steamed milk, which you can flavor with any of the syrups. You can have soy, coconut, or almond milk steamers, too.
Baristas also love the Caramel Apple Spice, a drink made from steamed apple juice and cinnamon syrup, topped off with whipped cream and caramel.
BOLD FLAVORS
If you like flavorful, full-bodied coffee, it's time to get familiar with Starbucks' various roasts.
The brand has many different house roasts which have loyal followings of their own.
The Pike Place Market coffee is popular, as is the French Roast, a darker roast that flies off store shelves.
Baristas also recommend a Caffè Americano for anyone who wants a strong, hot beverage with rich taste.
BEST OF THE MENU
All of Starbucks' seasonal drinks are worth trying, but the most popular ones – the Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte, the Caramel Brulee Latte, the Toasted White Chocolate and Peppermint Mochas, and (of course) the Pumpkin Spice Latte – are beloved because they're especially tasty.
Newer additions to the permanent menu have also impressed baristas. The Blonde Vanilla Latte, for example, is sweet and light while still providing caffeine.
A Honey Almondmilk Flat White becomes even better with extra honey syrup, and with oat milk replacing almond milk.
The Pistachio Latte is part of the winter menu and its salted brown butter topping is not to be missed.
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And if you aren't in the mood for your regular coffee favorites, go for a spicy Chai Tea Latte, which has a complex and satisfying flavor.
You can also ask your barista for a personal recommendation – just remember to leave a good tip after they share their wisdom with you.
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