Just last month, Starbucks released its new Iced Cherry Chai—and it changed my entire perspective on the cherry flavor. And while the rest of the releases leaned floral versus sweet (the chain brought back the Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha, Iced Lavender Oatmilk Latte, and Lavender Crème Frappuccino), turns out there's an entire (secret) menu dedicated to the stone fruit.
In light of the trending cherry flavor, Starbucks released six new drink customizations to its not-so-secret menu broadcast channel on Instagram. So, I did what any good, dedicated, diligent journalist would do and ordered up all six for pick-up on my mobile app. Let's break them all down together.
Sweet Cherry Blonde Oatmilk Latte
For the first order, I requested a Blonde Oatmilk Latte and added three scoops of cherry sweet powder (I adjusted the roast and milk as well to get the drink just right). The flavor profile was light and creamy thanks to the blonde roast, which is much brighter and milder than a typical espresso. It paired so well with the sweet cherry flavor, while the nutty and toasted oat milk addition reminded me of a pie crust.
How to order it: Blonde Oatmilk Latte, add three scoops of cherry sweet powder.
Iced Mocha With Cherry Cream Cold Foam
The Iced Mocha with Cherry Sweet Cream was the sleeper hit of the bunch. I didn't go in with crazy expectations (I'm not normally a mocha drinker), but was so surprised by how much I loved the flavor combination. It tasted like something straight out of a chocolate box—without being overly sweet. The bold espresso tempered out the rich, indulgent dark chocolate and sweet cherry cream.
How to order it: Iced Caffè Mocha, remove the whipped cream and add Cherry Cream Cold Foam and Cherry Crunch Sweet Topping.
Iced Matcha Latte With Cherry Cream Cold Foam
Ever since I tasted the Dubai Chocolate Matcha, I've been ordering the earthy iced tea. This cherry cream cold foam version just might have to join the rotation. I loved how the matcha blended with the sweet fruity notes for a balanced and creamy result. The combo felt unexpected, but paired together so nicely.
How to order it: Iced Matcha Latte, add Cherry Cream Cold Foam.
Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew With Cherry Cream Cold Foam
This was my least favorite of the bunch, surprisingly. The combination of strong cold brew with vanilla sweet cream and cherry cream cold foam just felt like too much. Every facet of the drink was trying to outdo the other.
How to order it: Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew, add Cherry Cream Cold Foam.
Sweet Cherry Açaí Lemonade Refresher
If you're looking for a treat, this is your drink. I ordered the classic Strawberry Açaí Lemonade Refresher, but with a few customizations per Starbucks' instructions. I chose no strawberries and added two scoops of cherry sweet powder. The result was almost candy-like and reminded me of a Starburst. It was juicy and delicious with the perfect amount of tart from the lemonade and cherry combo.
How to order it: Venti Strawberry Açaí Lemonade Refresher, no strawberries, add two scoops of cherry sweet powder.
Iced White Mocha Doppio Espresso With Cherry Cream Cold Foam
The double espresso gave it a rich and bold base with silky white mocha that really brought it to the next level. I loved how the fluffy, creamy cold foam added texture while the cherry flavor paired so well with the white mocha. It tasted like an elevated sweet treat.
How to order it: Venti Iced Doppio Espresso with Cherry Cream Cold Foam, add two pumps of white mocha and a splash of oatmilk.
