Starbucks Gingerbread Frappe: Festive Flavor & Price Info
The Starbucks Gingerbread Frappe is a creamy holiday drink filled with the cozy flavors of gingerbread spices. While it’s no longer available on the U.S. menu, you can recreate it by customizing a Frappuccino with Chai or Hazelnut syrup, topped with whipped cream and nutmeg.
It’s still available in some international markets, with prices starting at around $4.95 for a Grande. A typical serving has about 400 calories, but you can choose non-dairy milk or skip the whipped cream for a lighter option. The Starbucks Gingerbread Frappe remains a beloved seasonal favorite, loved for its festive and nostalgic flavors.
What is the Starbucks Gingerbread Frappuccino?
The Gingerbread Frappuccino was a holiday-exclusive drink that blended the flavors of gingerbread spices with creamy frappuccino goodness. It was available for a limited time during the festive season, creating a sense of nostalgia and excitement among Starbucks fans.
Features of the Starbucks Gingerbread Frappe
What Does the Gingerbread Frappuccino Taste Like?
The drink features a rich, spicy, and sweet flavor profile, reminiscent of gingerbread cookies. Key flavor notes include:
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla
- Caramelized sweetness
These flavors make it the perfect treat for winter celebrations.
Starbucks Gingerbread Frappuccino Sizes and Prices
The price of a Gingerbread Frappuccino varies depending on size, location, and customizations. Here is a general pricing guide based on standard Starbucks Frappuccino prices:
Note: Customizations like added syrups or toppings may incur additional charges.
Nutritional Information
The nutrition profile of the Gingerbread Frappuccino depends on its size and ingredients. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a Grande (16 oz) Gingerbread Frappuccino with whole milk and whipped cream:
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Sugar: 56g
- Protein: 5g
For a lighter option, consider requesting non-dairy milk or skipping the whipped cream.
How to Customize Starbucks Drinks to Match the Gingerbread Frappuccino
Even though the Gingerbread Frappuccino is no longer available, you can create a close replica by customizing your order. Here’s how:
- Base Drink Options:
- Start with a Vanilla Bean, White Mocha, or Creme Frappuccino base.
- Flavor Additions:
- Request Chai, Hazelnut, or Caramel syrups for gingerbread-like flavors.
- Toppings:
- Add whipped cream, nutmeg, or holiday sprinkles for the finishing touch.
Is the Starbucks Gingerbread Frappuccino Still Available?
The Gingerbread Frappuccino was discontinued in the U.S. market but remains available in certain countries during the holiday season. Many fans express disappointment over its absence and turn to alternatives or recreations.
Why Was It Discontinued?
Starbucks regularly updates its seasonal offerings to introduce new flavors and themes. While popular, the Gingerbread Frappuccino was retired to make room for other festive drinks like the Chestnut Praline Latte and Peppermint Mocha.
Gingerbread Frappuccino Availability
The Starbucks Gingerbread Frappuccino is a seasonal drink available in select regions with slight recipe differences. Here’s an easy guide:
- United States & Canada: No longer officially available, but fans can customize a Frappuccino with gingerbread syrup during the holidays.
- Europe & Middle East: Popular in countries like the UK, featuring gingerbread syrup, spiced whipped cream, and cinnamon sprinkles.
- Asia-Pacific: Countries like Japan and Australia offer it during the holiday season, often with unique local twists.
- Latin America: Limited availability, with some countries offering it as part of holiday menus.
- DIY Option: In regions where it’s unavailable, customize any Frappuccino with gingerbread syrup and festive toppings like nutmeg or cinnamon.
Check your local Starbucks for availability, as offerings vary by country and season.
Alternatives to the Gingerbread Frappuccino
If you’re craving a similar flavor, consider these alternatives available on the Starbucks menu:
- Chestnut Praline Latte: Offers a nutty, spiced flavor perfect for winter.
- Chai Tea Latte: Combines bold spices like cinnamon and ginger, mimicking gingerbread notes.
- Caramel Brulée Latte: A creamy, sweet option with hints of caramelized sugar.
Homemade Gingerbread Frappuccino Recipe
The Starbucks Gingerbread Frappuccino is a seasonal favorite that combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the creamy texture of a frappuccino. While it may not always be available in stores, you can recreate this delightful beverage at home with a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups ice
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine milk, cooled coffee, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla extract. Blend on low speed until well mixed.
- Add ice cubes to the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture into glasses, top with whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle with ground nutmeg or cinnamon. Serve immediately.
This recipe yields two servings and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. For a stronger coffee flavor, increase the amount of coffee or use espresso. To reduce sweetness, adjust the amount of brown sugar or molasses.
Ordering a Gingerbread Frappuccino at Starbucks
If you’re visiting a Starbucks and the Gingerbread Frappuccino isn’t on the menu, you can customize your order to replicate the flavor:
- Start with a Grande White Mocha Frappuccino.
- Add one pump of Chai syrup and one pump of Hazelnut syrup.
- Request chestnut praline topping on both the bottom and top of the cup, along with holiday sprinkles on top.
This combination mimics the gingerbread flavor profile and offers a festive twist to your drink.
FAQs Regarding Starbucks Gingerbread Frappe
Can Starbucks make a Gingerbread Frappuccino?
Yes, Starbucks can make it by blending gingerbread syrup with milk, ice, and coffee. Just ask for customization.
Does Starbucks have a Grinch Frappuccino?
No official drink exists, but you can customize a Matcha Frappuccino with creative toppings to make it Grinch-themed.
When did Starbucks discontinue the Gingerbread Latte?
Starbucks stopped offering the Gingerbread Latte in the U.S. in 2019, but it’s still available in some countries.
Is Gingerbread Frappuccino good?
Yes, it’s popular for its sweet, spicy flavor and creamy, festive feel, loved by many holiday drink fans.
Does Starbucks have a gingerbread syrup?
Yes, Starbucks offers gingerbread syrup seasonally for drinks like lattes and Frappuccinos.
What does Starbucks gingerbread taste like?
It tastes like a mix of sweet molasses and warm spices, just like traditional gingerbread cookies.
Is Starbucks gingerbread back?
Yes, gingerbread drinks are back for the holiday season, perfect for festive celebrations.
