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27 Refreshing Smoothie Alternatives to Try at Starbucks

Smoothie Alternatives at Starbucks: Exploring Healthy Beverage Choices

Craving a refreshing drink from Starbucks but looking for something different than your typical smoothie? You’re not alone.

While smoothies are a popular choice, there are times when you want to explore other exciting and refreshing options.

Fortunately, Starbucks offers many delightful alternatives that excite your taste buds and keep you cool on even the hottest days.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to 30 satisfying drinks you can order at Starbucks, ranging from colorful iced teas to creamy coffee concoctions.

Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to beverage that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.

 27 Smoothie Alternatives to Try at Starbucks

Refreshers

1. Strawberry Açaí Refresher

Strawberry Açaí Refresher

The Strawberry Açaí Refresher is a sought-after choice for those craving a fruity and refreshing drink.

This beverage provides a natural energy boost. It is made with genuine strawberry, açaí juice, and green coffee extract.

It’s a guilt-free indulgence, low in calories, and packed with vitamin C and antioxidants from the açaí berries.

Add coconut milk to transform it into a “Pink Drink” for a creamy texture. When ordering, ask for light ice to enjoy more of this refreshing treat.

2. Mango Dragonfruit Refresher

Mango Dragonfruit Refresher

The Mango Dragonfruit Refresher brings a tropical twist with its vibrant flavors.

Featuring dragonfruit, mango juice, and pieces of actual dragonfruit, this drink is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C while remaining low in calories.

To give it a tangier taste, substitute water with lemonade. Add a scoop of protein powder to your order for an extra nutritional boost.

3. Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

Known for its berry flavors and refreshing quality, the Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher contains a hibiscus infusion, real berries, and green coffee extract.

This drink is healthful, low in calories, and packed with antioxidants from hibiscus and berries.

Add a splash of coconut milk for a unique twist, and request extra berries for added flavor and texture.

4. Kiwi Starfruit Refresher

Kiwi Starfruit Refresher

The Kiwi Starfruit Refresher is a newer addition to the menu, boasting a unique tropical flavor.

Made with starfruit, kiwi juice, and pieces of genuine kiwi, this beverage is low in calories and rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

Combine it with lemonade for an extra citrusy kick, and try it with light ice to enjoy this refreshing drink even more.

Iced Teas

5. Iced Green Tea

Iced Green Tea

Iced Green Tea is a classic and refreshing choice for tea lovers.

Made with brewed green tea and served chilled and unsweetened, this beverage is low in calories and antioxidants and promotes hydration.

Add a pump of sugar-free syrup, such as vanilla, for a hint of sweetness.

Opt for light ice to enjoy more tea and less dilution when ordering.

6. Iced Black Tea

Iced Black Tea

Iced Black Tea offers a robust and bold flavor for a refreshing pick-me-up. Brewed black tea is served over ice and can be sweetened or unsweetened.

Low in calories, this drink contains antioxidants and provides a moderate caffeine boost.

Add a splash of lemon or lime juice for a citrusy twist, and request it unsweetened for a healthier, low-calorie option.

7. Iced Passion Tango Tea

Iced Passion Tango Tea

Iced Passion Tango Tea is a vibrant, caffeine-free herbal tea blend.

This beverage is served over ice, including hibiscus, lemongrass, and apple.

Naturally caffeine-free, low in calories, and rich in antioxidants, Iced Passion Tango Tea is a great choice for those seeking a refreshing and healthful drink.

Mix it with lemonade for a tangy and refreshing flavor, or try it with a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture.

8. Matcha Green Tea Latte (with almond milk)

Matcha Green Tea Latte (with almond milk)

Matcha Green Tea Latte offers a creamy and energizing option for matcha lovers.

Made with matcha powder, almond milk, and ice, this drink is high in antioxidants, provides a steady caffeine boost, and is dairy-free when made with almond milk.

If desired, sweeten it with a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup, or request less sweetener for a more authentic matcha flavor.

9. Iced Matcha Lemonade

Iced Matcha Lemonade

Iced Matcha Lemonade combines matcha’s earthy flavor with lemonade’s tangy taste.

Made with matcha powder, lemonade, and ice, this refreshing beverage is high in antioxidants and provides a natural energy boost.

Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist, and opt for light ice to maximize the amount of drink you get.

Herbal and Chai Teas

10. Mint Majesty

Mint Majesty

Mint Majesty is a refreshing and caffeine-free herbal tea option.

This tea, a mint and lemon verbena blend, can be served hot or iced. Naturally caffeine-free, Mint Majesty aids in digestion and has a calming effect.

Add a touch of honey or a slice of lemon for added flavor, and request it iced for a refreshing summer drink.

11. Peach Tranquility

Peach Tranquility

Peach Tranquility is a soothing herbal tea with a sweet and fruity flavor.

Containing peach, chamomile, pineapple, and lemon verbena, this tea is naturally caffeine-free, promotes relaxation, and is low in calories.

Sweeten it with a splash of agave syrup or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Enjoy Peach Tranquility hot for a calming evening drink or iced for a refreshing daytime option.

12. Chai Tea (with a milk alternative)

Chai Tea (with a milk alternative)

Chai Tea offers a spicy and aromatic flavor profile, perfect for tea enthusiasts.

A blend of black tea, cinnamon, clove, and other spices, Chai Tea is often served with steamed milk.

This beverage provides antioxidants from black tea, and the spices can aid in digestion and boost metabolism.

For a dairy-free option, use a milk alternative like almond, soy, or coconut milk.

When ordering, request fewer pumps of chai syrup to reduce sugar content.

Cold Brew and Iced Coffee

13. Black Cold Brew

Chai Tea (with a milk alternative)

Black Cold Brew is a smooth and refreshing coffee served cold.

Made from slow-steeped, cold-brewed coffee and served over ice, this beverage is low in calories, has no added sugar, and contains more antioxidants than hot-brewed coffee.

If you prefer a milder flavor, add a splash of water and request light ice to get more of the actual cold brew.

14. Cold Brew with Almond Milk

Cold Brew with Almond Milk

Adding almond milk to Cold Brew creates a creamy and nutty flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

This combination is low in calories and sugar, dairy-free, and adds a source of healthy fats.

If desired, sweeten it with a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup, and ask for unsweetened almond milk to keep it low-calorie.

15. Cold Brew with a Splash of Coconut Milk

Cold Brew with a Splash of Coconut Milk

Cold Brew with coconut milk offers a tropical twist and creamy texture.

This dairy-free option adds a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and is low in sugar.

Enhance the flavor with a pump of sugar-free coconut syrup, and request light ice to enjoy more of the beverage.

16. Iced Coffee (unsweetened)

Iced Coffee (unsweetened)

Unsweetened Iced Coffee is a classic, simple, and refreshing choice.

Brewed coffee served over ice, without any sweeteners, this drink has virtually no calories, no added sugar, and provides a caffeine boost.

Add a splash of milk or milk alternative for a smoother taste, and ask for it to be black to keep it as low-calorie as possible.

17. Iced Coffee with a Dash of Cinnamon

Iced Coffee with a Dash of Cinnamon

Adding cinnamon to Iced Coffee can enhance the flavor naturally without adding sugar.

Made with brewed coffee, ice, and a dash of ground cinnamon, this beverage is low in calories, has no added sugar, and cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Sweeten it with a sugar-free vanilla or caramel syrup pump, and ask for the cinnamon to be added before brewing for a more infused flavor.

18. Iced Coffee with a Milk Alternative

Iced Coffee with a Milk Alternative

Iced Coffee can be customized with various milk alternatives to suit dietary preferences.

Brewed coffee served over ice with almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk is low in calories, offers dairy-free options, and adds a source of vitamins and minerals.

Try different milk alternatives to find your favorite flavor and texture, and request unsweetened milk alternatives to keep the drink lower in calories.

Frappuccinos

19. Coffee Light Frappuccino

Coffee Light Frappuccino

The Coffee Light Frappuccino is a lower-calorie version of the classic coffee frappuccino.

Made with a blend of coffee, nonfat milk, ice, and light Frappuccino syrup, this beverage is lower in calories and sugar than the regular version while still providing a caffeine boost.

Add a shot of espresso for extra caffeine and flavor, and ask for it without whipped cream to reduce calories further.

20. Caramel Light Frappuccino

Caramel Light Frappuccino

The Caramel Light Frappuccino offers the same caramel flavor with fewer calories.

This drink is made with a blend of coffee, nonfat milk, ice, light Frappuccino syrup, and light caramel syrup. It is lower in calories and sugar but provides a satisfying caramel taste.

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor, and skip the caramel drizzle on top to keep it lighter.

21. Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with Nonfat Milk

Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with Nonfat Milk

The Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino is a creamy, non-caffeinated option that can be made lighter.

Consisting of a blend of vanilla bean powder, nonfat milk, and ice, this beverage can be lower in calories when made with nonfat milk and is a good option for those avoiding caffeine.

Add a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup for more flavor without added calories, and request it without whipped cream to reduce calories.

22. Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino with Almond Milk

Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino with Almond Milk

The Matcha Green Tea Frappuccino provides a creamy, refreshing drink with the health benefits of matcha.

Made with a blend of matcha powder, almond milk, and ice, this beverage is high in antioxidants, dairy-free, and can be lower in calories when made with almond milk.

If needed, sweeten it with a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup, and skip the whipped cream for a lighter option.

Protein Blended Cold Brew

23. Almond Protein Blended Cold Brew

Almond Protein Blended Cold Brew

Almond Protein Blended Cold Brew combines the richness of cold brew coffee with almond protein’s creaminess and nutritional benefits.

This drink is made with cold brew coffee, almond milk, plant-based protein, banana-date fruit blend, and ice. It is high in protein, dairy-free, provides a good energy source and contains natural sweetness from the banana-date blend.

Add a pump of sugar-free syrup for extra flavor without added calories, and request light ice to get more of the protein blend.

24. Cacao Protein Blended Cold Brew

Cacao Protein Blended Cold Brew

The Cacao Protein Blended Cold Brew offers a chocolatey, protein-rich alternative to traditional cold brew drinks.

Made with cold brew coffee, coconut milk, plant-based protein, banana-date fruit blend, cacao powder, and ice, this beverage is high in protein, dairy-free provides antioxidants from cacao, and has natural sweetness from the banana-date blend.

Enhance the chocolate flavor with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg, and ask for an extra scoop of protein powder for a higher protein content.

Custom DIY Drinks

25. Iced Green Tea Lemonade (light on lemonade)

Iced Green Tea Lemonade (light on lemonade)

Iced Green Tea Lemonade is a refreshing blend of green tea and lemonade, perfect for a light and zesty drink.

Made with brewed green tea, lemonade, and ice, this beverage is low in calories, high in antioxidants, and offers a refreshing boost of vitamin C from the lemonade.

Ask for “light on lemonade” to reduce sugar and calories while making the green tea flavor more prominent. Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

26. Iced Passion Tango Tea with Coconut Milk

Iced Passion Tango Tea with Coconut Milk

Iced Passion Tango Tea is a vibrant, caffeine-free herbal tea that can be enhanced with the creamy texture of coconut milk.

This drink includes brewed Passion Tango Tea, coconut milk, and ice. It is naturally caffeine-free, low in calories, and enriched with the healthy fats from coconut milk.

Add a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup for extra flavor without added calories, and request extra ice to maintain a refreshing cold temperature.

27. Cold Brew with a Splash of Vanilla Almond Milk

Cold Brew with a Splash of Vanilla Almond Milk

Cold Brew coffee is known for its smooth and rich flavor, which can be enhanced with a splash of vanilla almond milk.

Made with cold-brew coffee, vanilla almond milk, and ice, this drink is low in calories and dairy-free. It adds a subtle vanilla flavor with the creaminess of almond milk.

Add a pump of sugar-free vanilla syrup for an intensified vanilla taste, and request light ice to enjoy more of the Cold Brew and almond milk blend.

Seasonal and Limited-Time Offers

Seasonal and Limited-Time Offers

Starbucks frequently introduces seasonal and limited-time drinks that offer unique flavors and experiences.

  • Pumpkin Spice Latte: This fall favorite has pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove flavors.
  • Peppermint Mocha: The Peppermint Mocha is a winter classic with peppermint and chocolate flavors.
  • S’mores Frappuccino: The S’mores Frappuccino is a summer treat with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker flavors.

While these drinks often have higher calorie and sugar content, they can be enjoyed in moderation or customized for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Starbucks offers many refreshing alternatives to traditional smoothies that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

From fruity Refreshers and nourishing iced teas to creamy Frappuccinos and protein-packed cold brews, there’s something for everyone looking to beat the heat and enjoy a delightful drink.

So, the next time you visit Starbucks, step out of your comfort zone and explore these 27 refreshing options.

Explore the variety, experiment with flavors, and discover your new favorite go-to drink for a refreshing and satisfying experience.   

Viktor Edwards
Viktor Edwards

Viktor Edwards brings over a decade of experience to his craft, having honed his skills in some of the most renowned establishments. A graduate with a degree in Culinary Arts from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Viktor's journey into the world of fine drinks began shortly after completing his education. His career took off when he joined our website's team in 2021, bringing with him a passion for creating innovative beverages that tantalize the palate while offering a nod to classic flavors. Beyond his professional pursuits, Viktor is an avid cyclist and enjoys exploring the great outdoors, believing that inspiration can be found in the natural world around us.

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