Starbucks Horchata-Inspired Drinks: Creamy, Cinnamon-Spiced Perfection
If you’ve ever had horchata, you already know it’s not just a drink it’s a hug in a cup. That sweet, creamy, cinnamon-kissed flavor has roots that stretch back centuries, and now it’s making waves in modern coffee culture. With Horchata trending, it’s no surprise Starbucks fans are wondering: Does Starbucks serve horchata? And if not, how close can we get?
Well, grab your favorite cup because we’re diving into the history, the flavor, and how you can enjoy horchata-inspired drinks right at your local Starbucks.
What Exactly Is Horchata?
Horchata is a traditional beverage with variations all around the world. The most famous version in North America comes from Mexico, where it’s made with rice, water, sugar, and plenty of cinnamon. The drink is often served chilled, making it the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing.
But horchata actually goes way back. Its origins can be traced to Spain and North Africa, where early versions were made from tiger nuts or barley. Over time, it traveled across oceans and cultures, evolving into the creamy rice drink we know and love today. It’s dairy-free by default (though some people add milk for extra creaminess) and naturally gluten-free, which explains part of its universal appeal.
Horchata Meets Starbucks
Now, here’s the thing: Starbucks doesn’t have a horchata on the permanent menu in most countries but they have played with the idea. One standout was the Horchata Almondmilk Frappuccino, which made a limited-time appearance in the U.S. back in 2017.
It was a frozen blend of coffee, almond milk, cinnamon dolce syrup, whipped cream, and cinnamon sugar, essentially a horchata-inspired dessert in a cup. People still talk about it today. And if you missed it? Don’t worry. You can still create horchata-style drinks at Starbucks with a little customization magic.
How to Order a Horchata-Style Drink at Starbucks
If you want the creamy, cinnamon-infused sweetness of horchata, here are a few ways to get close:
1. Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte with Almond Milk
- Ask for almond milk instead of regular milk
- Request light cinnamon dolce syrup for a less sweet option
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top
This comes pretty close to a horchata latte without being overly heavy.
2. Cinnamon Dolce Cream Cold Brew
- Start with a Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
- Swap vanilla syrup for cinnamon dolce syrup
- Add almond milk instead of sweet cream
It’s cold, caffeinated, and perfectly spiced.
3. Horchata-Inspired Frappuccino
- Begin with a Coffee Frappuccino
- Use almond milk as the base
- Add cinnamon dolce syrup
- Top with whipped cream and cinnamon powder
This mimics that limited-edition Horchata Almondmilk Frappuccino from years ago.
Why Horchata Is Trending in 2025
There’s a reason horchata is all over TikTok, Instagram, and trending searches right now: it’s timeless but also customizable. Coffee lovers are experimenting with horchata cold brews, matcha-horchata lattes, and even protein-packed horchata smoothies.
Plus, with so much interest in global flavors, Starbucks fans are constantly looking for drinks inspired by cultural classics. Horchata hits that sweet spot familiar yet exotic, comforting yet refreshing.
A Flavor Profile Like No Other
What makes horchata so irresistible? It’s that perfect trifecta:
- Creaminess – even without dairy, it feels rich and smooth
- Warm spice – cinnamon brings a cozy, nostalgic taste
- Sweetness – not too sugary, just enough to keep you sipping
And when you mix that with coffee, you get this amazing blend of comfort and energy in every sip.
The Starbucks Calorie Check
Of course, horchata-inspired drinks can range from light and refreshing to decadent and dessert-like. If you’re curious about how your Starbucks custom creation stacks up nutritionally, you can check it instantly with my Starbucks Calorie Calculator.
You just plug in your drink size, milk choice, syrup pumps, and toppings, and it gives you the exact calorie count (plus other nutrition info). Super handy if you want to enjoy your cinnamon-sweet treat without surprises.
Horchata at Home (Starbucks Style)
If you can’t make it to Starbucks or want to try your own twist, you can whip up a horchata cold brew at home:
- Brew your favorite cold brew coffee
- Mix equal parts coffee and homemade horchata (or store-bought, no judgment)
- Add a dash of cinnamon on top
- Enjoy over ice with a reusable straw because you’re classy like that.
The Bottom Line
Horchata may not be a daily Starbucks menu item, but the flavors and inspiration are alive and well for anyone willing to get creative. Whether you’re ordering a cinnamon-almond milk latte, blending a Frappuccino, or experimenting at home, there are endless ways to bring this timeless drink into your coffee routine.
If you’re as obsessed as I am, keep an eye out Starbucks loves to bring back fan favorites and global-inspired flavors, and horchata could easily make a comeback. And if you want to explore even more drink possibilities, you can always browse my main site here:
https://starbucks-calorie-calculator.us/
Does Starbucks have Horchata on the menu?
Not as a permanent option, but Starbucks has introduced Horchata-inspired drinks in certain regions and seasons. You can also create your own by mixing cinnamon, vanilla, and a creamy milk base.
What does a Starbucks Horchata-inspired drink taste like?
It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor, with a hint of vanilla. Smooth and milky, it’s equally refreshing iced or comforting when hot.
Can I make a Horchata-like drink at Starbucks?
Yes! Ask for a latte or iced latte with cinnamon dolce syrup, a splash of vanilla, your choice of milk, and extra cinnamon powder on top.
Is Horchata dairy-free at Starbucks?
Traditional horchata is dairy-free, but Starbucks’ version may not be unless you choose almond, oat, or coconut milk as a substitute.
