I’m a long-term Starbucks Partner, so I know what it’s like to get bored of the Starbucks food menu. While some may be fine with waiting for the next food items and beverages to come out with the next product launch, these food menu hacks are barista-approved and available year-round. While there are many Starbucks beverage hacks out there on TikTok and Instagram, there isn’t nearly enough about their food menu! These Starbucks food menu hacks do come with some assembly required, but you won’t find them on any other “secret menu.” 

“Cracked Pepper” Cream Cheese Bagel

Photo via Starbucks

This food menu hack is one of my favorites because it’s free! Starbucks offers both plain and everything bagels and this hack is good with either one, toasted or not. This recipe requires simply asking for a couple of packets of black pepper on the side with your bagel of choice and cream cheese. With your provided knife, mix in the black pepper (I use 4 packets) with your cream cheese, and spread! The black pepper adds depth to the plain cream cheese and since it's one of the only options to get with your bagel (aside from butter or avocado spread), this hack elevates your morning bagel without adding any additional cost to your Starbucks order.

Bacon & Gruyere Sous Vide Egg Bites + Crispy Grilled Cheese on Sourdough + Sriracha

Photo via Starbucks

This food hack is my go-to when I’ve had a long week and need a quick bite. Most Starbucks breakfast sandwiches are made with English muffins or croissants as the bread, but this hack utilizes the crispy, buttery sourdough bread from the Crispy Grilled Cheese Sandwich on Sourdough. Start by ordering an order of Bacon & Gruyere Sous Vide Egg Bites, a grilled cheese sandwich, and finally a packet of sriracha on the side. This hack is pretty simple after that, just mush up your egg bites a bit, and put them directly into your already-cooked grilled cheese. Finally, top off your creation with a bit of sriracha to add a bit of spice to your morning. This sandwich comes out so crunchy and creamy with the sous vide eggs and the blend of melty white cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This sandwich is a bit extra, but I highly recommend giving it a try.

Everything Bagel + Avocado Spread + Egg and Cheddar Protein Box

Photo via Starbucks

This hack probably requires the most assembly out of this list, but I promise it’s worth it. Save this one for the next Double or Triple-Star promotion to get the benefit of the extra reward points since this one is a bit more pricey. First, order a toasted everything bagel, then order your avocado spread (which contains avocado mixed with lime, sea salt, and garlic) and an Egg and Cheddar Protein Box. Once you’re ready to assemble, add your avocado spread to your bagel. Then, open your protein box, and take out the two hard-boiled eggs and the "Everything" seasoning packet. Use your knife to slice your hard-boiled eggs and lay them over the avocado spread. To finish the hack off, sprinkle your seasoning over the top and you’re ready to eat. You’ll also have your sides of fruit and multigrain muesli bread, honey peanut butter, and white cheddar cheese as a snack for later.

Egg White & Roasted Red Pepper Egg Bites + Butter Croissant + Sriracha

Photo via Starbucks

High protein and vegetarian, the Egg White and Roasted Red Pepper Egg Bites are an excellent choice for a quick breakfast. In this hack, we’re making another Starbucks breakfast option for egg white lovers that are tired of ordering the Turkey Bacon Breakfast sandwich. Start by ordering the egg bites, a butter croissant (not warmed), and a packet of sriracha on the side. You’ll need to request a knife, and then slice your croissant open long ways, so it almost looks like a hot dog bun. After that, add in your egg bites, and finish off with adding your packet of sriracha. This hack is so flavorful between the buttery layers of the croissant mixed with the heat of the sriracha and is sure to break your breakfast order slump.