If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram or TikTok and stumbled across drinks like a Pink Drink with cold foam, a Butterbeer Frappuccino, or an Iced White Mocha with caramel drizzle, you’ve seen the Starbucks “secret menu” in action.
Spoiler alert: It’s not actually a real menu. But it is real. Confused? Let’s break it down.
First, What Is the Secret Menu?
The Starbucks secret menu is not a corporate-approved list of drinks hidden in a back room. It’s a collection of custom drink recipes created by baristas and fans over the years, often shared online.
Most of these drinks are made by modifying existing menu items using available syrups, drizzles, milks, and topping combos. There’s no official list behind the counter, and baristas are not trained on how to make them. So if you want one, you need to know how to ask for it the right way.
How to Order Secret Menu Drinks Without Confusion
Here’s the golden rule: never ask for the drink by its “secret” name only. Your barista probably won’t know what you mean if you say “Can I get a TikTok Matcha?” Instead, give them the exact instructions.
Here’s a good way to structure your order:
- Start with the base drink (ex: Grande Iced Matcha Latte)
- List all customizations (ex: sub oat milk, add 2 pumps vanilla, top with sweet cream cold foam)
- Be polite and patient, especially during busy hours
It also helps to have your order typed out or ready on your phone. Better yet, order ahead through the app if possible.
Fan-Favorite Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks (And How to Order Them)
We’ve rounded up some of the most-loved secret drinks, with instructions included.
1. Butterbeer Frappuccino
Inspired by Harry Potter fans
- Start with a Crème-based Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
- Add 3 pumps of caramel syrup
- Add 3 pumps of toffee nut syrup
- Top with caramel drizzle
2. Pink Drink With Cold Foam
An elevated version of the popular Pink Drink
- Order a Pink Drink (strawberry açaí with coconut milk)
- Ask for vanilla sweet cream cold foam on top
- Optional: add strawberry puree to the foam
3. Iced White Mocha With Caramel Drizzle
Also known as the “TikTok drink”
- Grande Iced White Chocolate Mocha
- Sub vanilla sweet cream cold foam instead of whipped cream
- Ask for extra caramel drizzle on top and inside the cup
4. The “Ferrero Rocher” Cold Brew
Tastes like the famous hazelnut chocolate candy
- Start with a Cold Brew
- Add 1 pump hazelnut, 1 pump mocha, and a splash of almond milk
- Ask for vanilla sweet cream cold foam with mocha drizzle on top
5. Strawberry Cheesecake Frappuccino
Dessert in a cup
- Start with a Strawberry Crème Frappuccino
- Add 1 pump white mocha, 1 pump cinnamon dolce
- Optional: ask for graham cracker topping if available
Can You Order These in the App?
Sometimes, yes. But the app has limitations. Not all customizations are available to select digitally, especially cold foam combinations or drizzle patterns. If you want something very specific, your best bet is to order in person.
That said, some drinks (like the Iced White Mocha with cold foam) have gone so viral they’re now easy to build within the app by using the “customize” button.
What You Shouldn’t Do
- Don’t expect baristas to know “secret” drink names
- Don’t try overly complicated orders during the morning rush
- Don’t send back a drink because it didn’t taste like the TikTok version you saw
- Don’t forget to tip if you’re ordering something highly customized
Ordering a drink with 6 steps is totally fine. Just remember that the friendlier and clearer you are, the better the outcome will be.
Bonus Tip: Use Rewards to Try Something New
If you’re a Starbucks Rewards member, use your free drink rewards to test out secret menu items without risking the full price. Customizations like extra pumps, cold foam, or drizzles are often included with rewards redemptions, making it the perfect time to try something new.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not a Secret, Just Smart Ordering
The secret menu isn’t a myth, but it’s also not magic. It’s a playful way to explore Starbucks’ huge customization options and find drinks that fit your taste. As long as you order clearly and respectfully, you can turn just about any idea into a reality.
So go ahead. Save your favorite combos, bring a little creativity to your coffee run, and remember — the only limit is how specific you’re willing to get.And before your next order, be sure to check GivingAssistant.org for any Starbucks deals or promotions that might be active. Because a secret menu drink tastes even better when it costs a little less.