Starbucks is already looking ahead to the new year, announcing a fresh winter menu set to launch in early 2026. The coffee giant shared a preview of its upcoming offerings in a press release on Monday 1 December 2025.
New Drinks Inspired by Viral Trends
The headline additions are two beverages inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate craze. Customers will soon be able to order an Iced Dubai Chocolate Matcha and an Iced Dubai Chocolate Mocha, both inspired by popular customer creations. The winter menu officially launches on 6 January 2026.
Pistachio also remains a key flavour, with a new Pistachio Cortado joining the returning Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. For those seeking a protein boost, Starbucks is adding a Caramel Protein Matcha and a Caramel Protein Latte to its selection. While exact protein counts are not specified, similar medium-sized protein drinks at Starbucks can contain up to 36 grams of protein.
Expanded Food and Sugar-Free Options
The food menu is getting a winter refresh too. New savoury items include a Turkey Bacon, Cheddar & Egg White Sandwich and Truffle Mushroom & Brie Egg Bites. For those with a sweet tooth, a new Valentine Cake Pop will be available ahead of 14 February. Health-conscious customers will also have a new sugar-free caramel syrup to choose from.
Before the 2026 winter menu arrives, Starbucks' current holiday offerings remain available. The brand recently brought back four classic festive drinks: the Iced Chestnut Praline Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Iced Eggnog Latte, and Eggnog Latte. Other seasonal favourites include the Peppermint Mocha and Caramel Brulée Latte, alongside themed baked goods like the Snowman Cookie and Cranberry Bliss Bar.
Ongoing Industrial Action Casts a Shadow
The festive period has not been without controversy for the chain. During its popular Red Cup Day last month, where a free limited-edition reusable cup was offered, more than 1,000 unionised workers across 65 U.S. cities staged a walkout. They were pushing for improved pay and benefits.
This industrial action, dubbed the Red Cup Rebellion, escalated over the past weekend. The Starbucks Workers United union announced on Friday that workers from 120 stores in 85 cities had joined the strike effort, highlighting ongoing tensions within the company even as it plans its future menus.
