Today, Starbucks introduced a new Frappuccino flavor. The Fruitcake Frappuccino is only available December 15-18th. In addition to the new flavor, Starbucks is giving away free cozies. And they're a major lifesaver.
Releasing a new Frappucino flavor at the beginning of winter seems odd. Why would I want to hold a cold drink while walking around in 30 degree weather? I would really only order a Frappuccino in December if I lived somewhere warm...
Starbucks fixes that problem by giving away ugly sweater cozies to Starbucks Rewards members. The cozies are only available while supplies lasts, and lucky for me, I got the last one at my local Starbucks. Score.
When I ordered the Fruitcake Frappuccino, the barista didn't know how to make it. This has been a typical occurrence for me each time I try a new Starbucks drink. I gave them my phone to to show them the recipe (it's on the Starbucks app) and asked for a cozy to go along with it.
"Oh, you're going to need that," the barista told me. "It's so cold outside, why do you want a frap?"
I just really want to try the new flavor that's only available for three days. That's why.
The Fruitcake Frappuccino doesn't look like much — my coworker asked if it was the "baby vomit drink." Nope, not that. It's creamy, fruity, and extremely flavorful. It has a hazelnut base mixed with dried fruit, cinnamon spice, and topped with whipped cream. I think the the whipped cream is sprinkled with matcha and caramel, which is what really gives the drink a blast of flavor.
The Fruitcake Frappuccino is refreshing, yet comforting. I like the addition of the dried fruit. It gives the frap a savory bite — kind of like the chocolate chips in the Java Chip Frappuccino (only this isn't as crunchy). This is unlike any other Frappuccino that I've had at Starbucks, and I highly recommend trying it over the next few days. Be sure to ask for an ugly sweater cozy to go with it! It's seriously a lifesaver.