Costa Coffee has officially launched its 2026 Christmas menu across the UK and Ireland today (22 October), and a Daily Star taste test has identified one clear winner. The Golden Hazel Latte, served with a Ferrero Rocher, was named the standout item from the new festive range.
New Festive Drinks and Returning Favourites
The Golden Hazel Latte pairs Costa's signature Mocha Italia with rich chocolate and hazelnut, finished with chocolate whip and golden sprinkles. Also debuting this season is the Gingerbread Iced Matcha Latte, a seasonal take on the iced matcha trend featuring warming gingerbread notes and a biscuit topping.
The new Ultimate Yule Brownie range is available as a latte or hot chocolate, replicating the indulgence of a classic Christmas log. Returning staples include the Black Forest Hot Chocolate, Terry's Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate, and the Caramel Nutcracker Latte, all served in Costa's festive holiday cups.
Festive Food Menu Overhaul
The food menu has received a major festive update, headlined by the Pigs in Blankets 'Nduja Mac & Cheese—a fiery twist on a winter warmer featuring mature cheddar and spicy Italian 'Nduja. On-the-go options include the new Festive Flatbread and Festive Feast Toastie, both packed with chicken breast, sage and onion stuffing, and cranberry sauce. The Brie, Bacon & Cranberry Panini also returns.
For those with a sweet tooth, the bakery counter features five new treats, including a Dubai-Style Speculoos Tiffin and a Black Forest Yule Log. The All-Butter Mince Pie remains a staple, alongside the Iced Penguin Gingerbread Biscuit, with 20p from every sale donated to The Costa Foundation.
The Taste Test Winner
The Daily Star's food team tried most of the range and crowned the Golden Hazel Latte with an actual Ferrero Rocher on top as the winner. The drink was described as silky, smooth, sweet, and nutty, evoking a Christmas feel. The team suggested it could be this year's standout Christmas drink across rival brands, with the Terry's Chocolate Orange Muffin as a perfect accompaniment.
The Christmas menu is available in stores nationwide from today, while stocks last.
