By: Hairol Ma
With the frosty cold air wriggling its way into the coziest of cozy sweaters, fall is surely on its way. What better way to wage battle against numb fingers and slippery sleet than a cup of good ‘ol hot chocolate? With its new steamy lattes and mochas, Starbuck takes the traditional “hot chocolate” to a whole new level.
Starbucks is famous for its revered seasonal drinks: the iced summer refreshers, tingly Christmas blends, and currently, the fall indulgences. The unique aspect about their seasonal drinks is the specific syrups they employ, which can only be made during certain seasons, such as the gingerbread syrup. Distinct seasonal toppings are also added to each drink or sprinkled on top of whipped cream. Seasonal spices also give each drink a characteristic taste. The array of toe-warming drinks in store this Thanksgiving include the pumpkin spice latte, salted caramel mocha, eggnog latte, peppermint mocha, and gingerbread latte.
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The pumpkin spice latte is arguably one of the most anticipated drinks every fall. An annual favorite, it comes in both hot and cold. The zesty blend employs espresso, pumpkin syrup, steamed milk, along with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove for a taste of autumn. For those who do not obsess over weight, add whipped cream, which is sprinkled with pumpkin spices, for an exceptional treat. This drink is surely the heart of Thanksgiving: its distinct orange color certainly emphasizes its roots.
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The salted caramel mocha has also proved to be satisfactory. It starts with a base of espresso and steamed milk, then branches out with mocha sauce and toffee nut syrup. A thick layer of whipped cream drizzled with caramel syrup and peppered with chunky bits of sea salt completes this fall masterpiece. Surprisingly, the salt pieces are a perfect complement for the caramel sauce. However, the whipped cream, unfortunately, tends to melt within a minute, taking down the caramel and sea salt with it, so be sure to treasure that island of fat before it inevitably sinks into a coffee-fated oblivion.
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The gingerbread latte is another drink guaranteed to start the holiday mood. Steamed milk and espresso combine with gingerbread syrup and nutmeg to create a unique taste. The gingerbread is harder to detect, but its slightly spicy taste still emanates memories of warm fires and woolen scarves.
Be prepared to hand over your wallet this holiday season, because Starbucks will have customers queuing for its hot beverages. Bring home a packaged holiday with you with the seasonal coffee, such as the Thanksgiving Blend or the Pumpkin Spice Coffee. Both are on sale at the Starbucks on Mission Boulevard. Now, what are you waiting for? Sample a treat today!
