Coffee Orders For Beginners

As someone relatively new to coffee, strong orders can be really intimidating. I decided to indulge in this new chapter of caffeine as a STEM major looking for less chemical additives in an effort to keep me awake and alert during the day. Additionally, I wanted to disclose my bias- I am a Starbucks fan; I think Dunkin is alright but I think the Starbucks roasts are a little smoother and more consistent. To each their own! Here are my best recommendations for coffee beginners!

Starbucks Iced Caramel Macchiato

I have not quite evaluated if this option is even considered as “coffee”, but it tastes just like the Häagen-Dazs coffee ice cream (as reflected in the drink’s calories). If you are on a calorie deficit, this might not be the drink for you. However, if in need of a nice, fall afternoon sweet treat, here is my customization of the drink: 

• Venti
• Light Ice
• Caramel Drizzle
• 2 pumps Vanilla Syrup

I leave the rest of the options up to the barista’s expertise, and the result is always so yummy. 

Chai Latte

I had never tried chai before coming to college, and it has expanded my palate to a whole new universe. Similar to the macchiato, it satisfies the sweet tooth with a light, cinnamon-ey flavor mixed with the slight bitterness of the coffee. This option is a lovely, refreshing beverage to enjoy on your walk to class, studying outside with a nice breeze– any situation to match the relaxed taste of the drink. 

Iced Americano

Now I know what you’re thinking- experienced coffee lovers would raise an eyebrow at this recommendation for beginners but just hear me out. If you have a late night and if you are like me and do not enjoy hot coffee; this is the drink to close your throat and swallow large sips and trust me it will keep you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for hours. I enjoy this drink because it is not exactly a “bouncing off the wall” type of caffeine, but more like “laser focused study session lock in” type of energy. 

Starbucks Blonde Vanilla Latte

As a complete 360 from the last recommendation, to avoid strong, bitter coffee flavors while gaining that jolt of energy– this drink is for you. Ironically, my blonde friend recommended this drink to me and it was a freshman-year staple. Out of all my recommendations, I would say this drink is my favorite to comfortably sip on as a daily beverage. I customize this drink with:

• Light Ice
• Nonfat Milk
• Venti
• Caramel Drizzle
• 5 pumps Brown Sugar Syrup
• 5 pumps White Chocolate Mocha Sauce
• No Vanilla Syrup (automatically adds on)

This order is definitely a cheat day option, but it is just so delectable and enjoyable I highly encourage trying at least once in your life. The blend is sweet and smooth, it makes me feel so girly and feminine. 

Starbucks Modified Iced Latte

Last but most definitely not least, my daily order. This drink keeps calories in balance with enjoyment; it retains a little bitterness with enough sweetness. I modify this version with:

• Light Ice
• Blonde Espresso
• 2 White Mocha
• No Whipped Cream
• Caramel Drizzle

These are recommendations to anyone new to coffee and willing to slowly dip their toe in. I remember being so put off by the bitterness that I did not touch coffee until my freshman year of college, and I am slowly adjusting! I recommend slowly lowering the sweetness level just keeping in mind health effects and I actually find the bitterness quite enjoyable now. Bon appetit!