Introducing the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado: Starbucks's Latest Vegan Addition
Starbucks has once again made headlines with its new menu offerings, and this time, the focus is on a permanent, certified vegan-friendly drink. The Pecan Oatmilk Cortado was officially introduced to menus in late summer 2025, providing a rich, comforting, and entirely plant-based espresso option. Inspired by seasonal flavors, this drink is a bold step towards a more inclusive and extensive dairy-free lineup. It combines the brand's smooth Blonde Espresso with layers of pecan and brown butter notes, all cut with perfectly steamed oat milk.
What Exactly Is a Cortado?
A cortado is a Spanish-origin beverage, small in size and strong in flavor. Its name comes from the Spanish word 'cortar,' meaning 'to cut'. The steamed milk is added to 'cut' through the bold flavor of the espresso, balancing the taste and creating a smoother, creamier texture. Starbucks's version uses three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso, which results in a sweeter and richer coffee profile than standard espresso shots. The addition of pecan flavor and oat milk makes this a unique and welcoming twist on the traditional recipe.
Beyond the Cortado: Other Notable Vegan Options
While the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado is the most recent permanent vegan addition, Starbucks has a history of introducing new, exciting plant-based options, both permanent and seasonal. A few recent examples include:
- Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso (January 2025): This is a year-round vegan-as-is shaken espresso that combines Blonde Espresso, hazelnut syrup, and oat milk.
- Iced Horchata Oatmilk Shaken Espresso (Summer 2025): A limited-time offer, this drink blended cinnamon, vanilla, and oat milk with espresso, inspired by traditional Mexican horchata.
- Strato Frappuccinos (Summer 2025): New layered Frappuccinos, such as the Brown Sugar and Strawberry Matcha Strato options, can be made vegan by requesting non-dairy milk and cold foam.
For anyone looking for something with a fruity kick, the Refreshers lineup continues to be a reliable source for vegan choices. The Dragon Drink and Pink Drink, both shaken with coconut milk, are vegan by default and require no modifications.
Important Ordering Tips for a Vegan Starbucks Experience
Navigating the Starbucks menu can be tricky for vegans, as many standard components contain hidden dairy. Always remember these essential tips to ensure your drink is entirely plant-based:
- Choose the Right Milk: Starbucks offers oat, almond, coconut, and soy milk options. Oat milk is a favorite for many baristas and customers due to its creamy texture and complementary flavor profile, especially in espresso drinks.
- Hold the Whipped Cream: Standard whipped cream is dairy-based and must be omitted from any order.
- Beware of Sauces and Toppings: The caramel drizzle, java chips (found in Java Chip Frappuccinos), and cinnamon dolce topping all contain dairy. The standard mocha sauce and many of the flavored syrups are vegan, but it's always good to double-check.
- Specify Non-Dairy Cold Foam: Several non-dairy cold foam flavors are now available seasonally, including Gingerbread and Sugar Cookie, so be sure to request the non-dairy version when customizing.
- Inquire About Limited-Time Drinks: Seasonal drinks can be complicated. For example, while the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte from Fall 2024 was dairy-free, it was not vegan due to honey. Always ask your barista or consult the Starbucks app for specific ingredients.
Comparing Notable Vegan-Friendly Starbucks Drinks
| Drink Name | Vegan Status | Key Ingredients | Best For... | Customization Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pecan Oatmilk Cortado | Vegan as-is | Blonde Espresso, Pecan notes, Oatmilk | Fans of hot, strong, and nutty coffee | No mods needed. |
| Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | Vegan as-is | Blonde Espresso, Hazelnut syrup, Oatmilk | A refreshing, sweet espresso kick | No mods needed. |
| Pink Drink | Vegan as-is | Strawberry Açaí Refresher, Coconutmilk, Freeze-dried strawberries | A fruity, creamy, and non-coffee beverage | No mods needed. |
| Matcha Tea Latte | Customizable | Matcha, Milk, Sweetener | A hot or iced green tea beverage | Sub dairy milk for oat, soy, or almond. Hold whip. |
| Caffè Mocha | Customizable | Mocha sauce, Espresso, Milk | A classic chocolate and coffee fix | Sub dairy milk. Hold whipped cream. |
| Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato | Customizable | Espresso, Apple Brown Sugar syrup, Oatmilk | A taste of fall, hot or iced | Ensure the Apple Crisp Drizzle is vegan-friendly; sometimes formulas change. |
The Expansion of Vegan-Friendly Menus
Starbucks's commitment to expanding its plant-based menu has been a boon for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities. The introduction of drinks like the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado showcases a growing understanding of consumer demand for convenient, delicious, and clearly labeled vegan options. It also demonstrates a shift from simple modifications to intentionally crafted, dairy-free beverages. The removal of the non-dairy milk upcharge has further encouraged customers to explore these new plant-based creations. By offering a wider variety of certified vegan options, Starbucks is solidifying its position as a go-to spot for coffee lovers of all dietary preferences. For the latest vegan-friendly food and drink news, resources like VegNews offer comprehensive updates.
Conclusion
The new vegan drink at Starbucks, the Pecan Oatmilk Cortado, is a welcomed addition that strengthens the coffee giant's plant-based lineup. As a permanent, hot, and flavorful option, it adds variety for vegan patrons. Coupled with ongoing seasonal offerings and increased non-dairy customization, Starbucks is clearly investing in meeting the growing demand for vegan products. This makes enjoying a delicious coffee experience easier and more transparent for everyone looking to skip the dairy. Always double-check seasonal toppings and sauces, but rest assured that finding a great vegan drink at Starbucks is more convenient than ever before.
