Yes, Starbucks now offers vegan cold foam
For a long time, the signature cold foam at Starbucks was made with dairy-based milk, making it off-limits for vegan customers. However, the menu has evolved significantly to be more inclusive. In 2024, Starbucks officially introduced permanent non-dairy cold foam options, including a Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam made with a base of oat and soy milks. This means you can now get a rich, creamy, and dairy-free foam on your iced beverages without complicated modifications or sacrificing flavor.
How to order your vegan cold foam at Starbucks
Getting a vegan foam on your drink is now a straightforward process, but you need to be specific with your order to ensure it's made correctly. The barista will prepare your foam separately to ensure no cross-contamination occurs. Here’s a simple process:
- Select your base drink: Choose an iced coffee, cold brew, or even an iced shaken espresso. Many Starbucks drinks are already vegan-friendly at their core, especially coffee-based ones.
- Choose your non-dairy milk: While the standard non-dairy cold foam base uses oat and soy, you should still specify your preferred non-dairy milk for the rest of your beverage if needed. Oat milk and almond milk are popular choices.
- Specify vegan cold foam: Clearly ask for the "Non-Dairy Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam" or other non-dairy cold foam flavors if available seasonally. It's a good practice to simply say "dairy-free" to be extra clear.
- Check for non-vegan add-ons: Remember to omit other non-vegan ingredients. For example, the caramel drizzle is not vegan and should be avoided.
Exploring the non-dairy cold foam flavor range
Beyond the permanent offerings, Starbucks frequently rotates seasonal non-dairy cold foam flavors. In recent years, seasonal options have included dairy-free versions of Gingerbread, Peppermint Chocolate, and Salted Caramel. The availability of these special foams depends on the season and location, but it's always worth asking your barista what non-dairy cold foam options are currently on the menu.
Can you make vegan foam at home?
Yes, you can easily replicate Starbucks-style vegan foam at home with just a few ingredients and some basic equipment. This is a great way to save money and customize flavors to your liking.
DIY Vegan Cold Foam Recipe
- Ingredients: 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (barista oat milk or chilled full-fat canned coconut milk works best), 1/2 tablespoon of sweetener (maple syrup, agave, or simple syrup), and a dash of vanilla extract.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a jar or a shallow bowl. Use a handheld milk frother, a french press, or a small whisk to whip the mixture vigorously for 30-60 seconds until it becomes thick and frothy. Spoon the foam over your favorite iced coffee or cold brew.
A guide to different non-dairy milks for foaming
Not all non-dairy milks are created equal when it comes to frothing. The protein and fat content significantly impact the texture and stability of the foam. Here’s a comparison to help you choose the best milk for your vegan foam.
| Milk Type | Foaming Capability | Taste Profile | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oat Milk | Excellent | Naturally sweet, creamy | Lattes, cold brew toppings | Most reliable for thick, stable foam |
| Soy Milk | Good | Neutral to slightly nutty | Espresso-based drinks | Also froths well due to high protein content |
| Almond Milk | Moderate | Lightly nutty | Lighter iced coffees | Produces a thinner, less stable foam than oat or soy |
| Coconut Milk | Good (from can) | Distinct coconut flavor | Tropical drinks, unique flavor profiles | Use the solid cream from a chilled can for best results |
A note on seasonal menu items
While many seasonal drinks can be modified to be vegan, you must be careful with certain ingredients. The classic Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, for example, is made with a dairy-based pumpkin cream, but you can order a custom version with non-dairy foam and pumpkin spice powder. Always ask your barista about the ingredients in seasonal sauces and drizzles to avoid disappointment.
Conclusion
Starbucks has significantly expanded its vegan-friendly offerings, and the availability of non-dairy cold foam is a major win for plant-based customers. By understanding what's available and how to customize your order, you can confidently enjoy a delicious, creamy foam on top of your favorite cold beverages. Whether you opt for the in-store vanilla cold foam or create your own at home with oat milk, a vegan cold foam is now more accessible than ever. For further details on customizing your order, see the PETA guide to vegan options at Starbucks.
