The holiday season is officially here, and you know what that means: festive coffee drinks! Whether you're a fan of peppermint, caramel, or fruity flavors, nothing says "holiday magic" like sipping a cozy latte. But let’s be real—between the long lines, premium prices, and questionable syrups, heading to Starbucks isn’t always the move.
Luckily, making these drinks at home isn’t just cheaper—it’s better. You get high-quality ingredients, no artificial nonsense, and the joy of staying in your PJs while channeling your inner barista. Plus, you can brag about your pro-level creations (that taste even better than the originals).
The Right Espresso Machine: Your Secret Weapon
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk tools. To make café-worthy drinks at home, a great espresso machine is key. One of the most popular (and best-rated) options on Amazon right now is the Breville Barista Express.
Here’s why it’s worth the hype:
Built-in Grinder: Freshly ground beans make all the difference.
Consistent Results: The precision heating and pressure deliver café-quality espresso every time.
Customizable Options: You control the grind size, shot length, and froth level.
Durable and Stylish: It looks sleek on your countertop and lasts for years.
While it’s an investment, the Breville pays for itself in just a few months of skipping Starbucks. If you’re serious about upping your coffee game, this machine is a game-changer.
Copycat Starbucks Holiday Drinks (Even Better at Home)
Here are three Starbucks-inspired drinks that’ll fill your home with holiday cheer—and taste even better than the originals, thanks to real ingredients and that Breville touch.
1. Apple Crisp Oatmilk Latte
This fall-to-winter favorite is warm, cozy, and bursting with real apple-cinnamon goodness.
What You’ll Need:
1 shot Starbucks espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
1 cup oat milk (or your preferred milk)
2 tbsp apple cider (unsweetened is best!)
1 tbsp pure maple syrup
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
Whipped cream (optional, but why not?)
How to Make It:
Steam your oat milk using the Breville’s milk frother (or a stovetop frother).
In a saucepan, heat apple cider, maple syrup, and cinnamon until fragrant.
Pull a shot of espresso and pour it into your favorite mug.
Stir in the apple-cinnamon mixture, then add your steamed oat milk.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
Why It’s Better: No artificial syrups here—just real apple cider and maple syrup for a flavor that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
2. Peppermint Mocha
This holiday classic is chocolatey, minty, and totally dreamy—with none of the overly sweet syrups.
What You’ll Need:
1 shot Starbucks espresso
1 cup milk of choice
2 tbsp high-quality cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar (or adjust to taste)
¼ tsp pure peppermint extract
Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional but festive!)
How to Make It:
Heat your milk in a small saucepan or with the Breville’s frother.
Stir in cocoa powder, sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth.
Pull your espresso shot and pour it into a large mug.
Add the chocolatey milk mixture, stirring gently.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for holiday flair.
Pro Tip: Upgrade this recipe with dark chocolate for a richer, more indulgent mocha experience.
3. Chestnut Praline Latte
If you’ve never had this Starbucks gem, you’re missing out—but don’t worry, because your homemade version will blow it out of the water.
What You’ll Need:
1 shot Starbucks espresso
1 cup milk (your choice!)
2 tbsp homemade praline syrup (recipe below)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Whipped cream and caramel drizzle for garnish
How to Make Praline Syrup:
Toast ½ cup pecans or hazelnuts in a dry pan until fragrant.
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup water, and the toasted nuts. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Strain out the nuts and reserve the syrup.
How to Make the Latte:
Steam your milk until frothy and warm.
Pull an espresso shot and mix it with 2 tbsp praline syrup and vanilla extract in a mug.
Add your steamed milk and stir gently.
Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for that luxurious touch.
Why It’s Better: The homemade praline syrup is a game-changer—rich, nutty, and caramel-like, it’s far more flavorful than anything you’ll find in a bottle.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Holiday Drinks
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Freshly ground coffee beans, real extracts, and natural sweeteners make all the difference.
Get Creative with Garnishes: Crushed candy canes, cinnamon sticks, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg can take your drink to the next level.
Experiment with Milk Alternatives: Oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk each bring a unique flavor and texture to your lattes.
Pair with a Treat: Homemade gingerbread cookies or biscotti are the perfect companions for your festive drinks.
Why Make These at Home?
Besides saving money and avoiding the Starbucks chaos, making these drinks at home is just plain fun. Your kitchen becomes a holiday café, your drinks are customizable to your taste, and you get to feel like a coffee artist.
And with a top-notch espresso machine like the Breville Barista Express, you’ll never miss the coffee shop. From perfect froth to rich espresso shots, it brings barista-quality brewing right to your countertop.
So grab your coziest blanket, turn on your favorite holiday playlist, and start brewing some holiday cheer—no shoes required.