There Really is No Butterbeer at Starbucks!

My text to a friend this morning began with the words, “Let’s gamble!”

But we weren’t headed for a casino or anything. We went to the nearest Starbucks branch. Neither of us was sure about what we were going to do. Yet we had no other way to confirm our knowledge. We had to try.

Just after the barista—a girl—greeted us and asked for our order, Pam handed her a paper. On it was a short list of ingredients on what we wanted on our grandes. And the look on her face? Priceless!

Imagine yanking a grade-schooler who’s in the middle of class and dropping her into a college algebra lecture. She was hardly saying anything but the expression of furrowed brows, eyes trying to make heads and tails of what was on the paper, and lips that were trying to twist themselves into a pretzel was enough for me to wish that I had telepathy.

“Are you sure about this? You’re not pranking me are you? If this turns out to be bad, your fault—not mine! You ordered it.” I could almost hear her talk.

From the looks of it, the recipe was terribly puzzling that she had to call the other barista—a guy—and help her make sense of it. They handed us our grandes. So white and fluffy, made beautiful and curious by the syrup and the slight smell of sweetness.

Since I couldn’t help myself, I took first sip.

Even without words, Pam could tell how it tasted. I had this terribly silly grin from ear to ear, like the Cheshire Cat took human form. And the instant sparkle in my eyes because of the sudden sugar rush.

Now, for the record, I am not a fan of Starbucks or any establishment of that kind but props to them for making a decent drink. The taste was not overpowering; the sweetness was just right. But if I had to complain, it’s that I was left with cream mush at the bottom of the cup. And oh, the brain freeze! But that comes with almost every cold drink I have.

And—yes—Starbucks does not have Butterbeer. It’s likely that the baristas won’t know it, even if you say the name or they are Potterheads themselves. But give them the right recipe and they will make it for you. Here’s the recipe, thanks to my source:

• A Creme Frappuccino base. Don’t skimp on the fat by asking for skim or 2% milk as whole milk is required for the right consistency.
• Add 3 pumps of caramel syrup.
• Add 3 pumps of toffee nut syrup.
• Top with caramel drizzle

Know that this is a limited concoction. As long as the holiday drinks are there, Butterbeer can be made.

Starbucks Supposedly Secret Drink