Starbucks Banana Bread Latte Secret Menu Drink and Homemade Recipe
There’s something about the smell of banana bread that instantly feels like home. Warm, sweet, nutty, and just a little nostalgic. Now imagine all of that in your coffee cup. That’s what a Banana Bread Latte is all about a drink that tastes like comfort wrapped up in espresso and milk. I first heard about this drink not on the Starbucks menu, but as one of those “secret menu” creations floating around Instagram. Someone had hacked the ingredients to make their morning latte taste like a slice of fresh-baked banana bread. I was skeptical, but the idea stuck in my head until I finally tried making one. And let me tell you, it’s shockingly close to the real thing.
What Exactly Is a Banana Bread Latte?
Unlike a Caramel Macchiato or Pumpkin Spice Latte, you won’t find “Banana Bread Latte” on Starbucks’ official menu board. It’s more of a creative customization. Baristas (and crafty customers) put together flavors that mimic the taste of banana bread. The base is simple:
- Espresso shots (rich and slightly bitter, just like you’d expect)
- Steamed milk (your choice oat milk is especially cozy with this one)
- A mix of banana flavor syrup (yes, it exists!) and nutty or spicy add-ins, like hazelnut or cinnamon dolce
Some people even sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top to really lock in that “fresh from the oven” vibe. The result? A latte that’s smooth, sweet, and layered like sipping on banana bread without needing a fork.
Is It Available at Starbucks?
Here’s the catch: Starbucks doesn’t currently offer an official Banana Bread Latte on its U.S. menu. But and this is where it gets fun you can order a close version with customizations.
Try this next time:
- Ask for a Latte with your preferred milk.
- Add a couple pumps of banana syrup (not all stores have it, so check first).
- Add 1–2 pumps of hazelnut syrup.
- Top with cinnamon powder or cinnamon dolce sprinkles.
It won’t be an exact replica of banana bread, but it gets surprisingly close. If your store doesn’t carry banana syrup, some people substitute with vanilla and hazelnut, then bring their own banana-flavored creamer to add later.
Making a Banana Bread Latte at Home
Honestly, this drink is even better as a DIY. If you like playing around with coffee at home, here’s an easy method:
- Brew a strong espresso shot (or a small cup of dark roast coffee).
- Heat and froth milk (oat or almond milk adds a nutty sweetness).
- Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of banana syrup or banana-flavored extract.
- Add a splash of hazelnut or vanilla syrup.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
That’s it — homemade Banana Bread Latte, no coffee shop line required. Pair it with actual banana bread, and you’ve basically hit breakfast heaven.
How Many Calories Are in a Banana Bread Latte?
This is where it depends on how you build it. A standard latte at Starbucks (Grande size, 2% milk) runs around 190 calories. Once you start adding syrups, that number climbs.
- 1 pump of syrup = 20 calories.
- So if you add banana + hazelnut + cinnamon dolce, you’re looking at an extra 60–80 calories.
A grande Banana Bread Latte could be anywhere between 250–320 calories depending on milk choice, whipped cream, and toppings. If you’re watching your intake, you can always ask for sugar-free syrups or swap in almond milk to shave off some calories. I use my Starbucks Calorie Calculator to play with different versions it’s a lifesaver when you want to customize drinks without guessing the numbers.
Why People Love It
I think the Banana Bread Latte has become a mini trend because it hits two comfort buttons at once: coffee and baked goods. It’s cozy without being seasonal like Pumpkin Spice. You can drink it in January when it’s freezing outside or in May when you’re craving something sweet with your iced latte. Plus, there’s the novelty factor. It’s not on the official menu, so when you order one, it feels like you’re in on a little secret.
My Honest Take
Is the Banana Bread Latte my everyday drink? Not really, I usually stick with cold brew or a flat white. But as a treat? Oh, absolutely. It’s warm, nostalgic, and fun to order. And every time I take that first sip, I swear I can almost hear my grandma’s oven timer dinging. So if you’re curious, give it a try. Customize it at Starbucks or whip it up at home. Either way, you’ll end up with a cup of coffee that feels like a hug.
What is the Banana Bread Latte at Starbucks?
The Banana Bread Latte is a secret menu drink at Starbucks that combines classic latte flavors with banana syrup (or a banana puree twist), creating a cozy drink that tastes just like banana bread in a cup. It’s not on the official menu, so you’ll need to customize your order.
How do I order a Banana Bread Latte at Starbucks?
Ask for a latte (hot or iced) with a shot of hazelnut syrup and a pump of banana-flavored syrup if your Starbucks has it in stock. You can also add cinnamon dolce topping or nutmeg for that “fresh-baked” banana bread feel.
How many calories are in a Banana Bread Latte?
The calories will depend on the size, milk choice, and toppings. A grande made with 2% milk and standard syrups may range between 250–320 calories. If you want to know the exact calories based on your customizations, try our Starbucks Calorie Calculator
Can I make a Banana Bread Latte at home?
Yes! Brew a strong espresso or coffee, steam your preferred milk, and add banana syrup (or blend a little banana puree with honey or maple syrup). Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for that banana bread aroma.
Is the Banana Bread Latte available at every Starbucks?
Not always. Since it’s part of the “secret menu,” availability depends on whether your store carries banana syrup or if baristas can create a similar flavor combination. It’s best to ask your barista and be polite when ordering.
Can I make it healthier?
Absolutely. Opt for almond, oat, or nonfat milk, reduce the number of syrup pumps, or skip the whipped cream. These small swaps can cut down calories and sugar without losing the cozy flavor.
