Cozy drinks definitely don't have to end with the holiday season. After all, winter is long, and we love keeping the warm vibes going with flavorful coffees, which is why we were so excited when Starbucks announced that the Pistachio Latte would be returning for its third year in a row. But as with any fan-favorite product, we had one question: is it actually worth the hype? We tried the Pistachio Latte and can happily report that it's absolutely as addicting as people say it is.
Nutty and comforting in just the right way, the Pistachio Latte's unique flavor profile blends perfectly with whatever milk you choose. Although I was surprised by it at first — this latte definitely has a strong pistachio flavor — I appreciated how different it was and grew to like it more and more as I continued to drink it. It reminded me of pistachio gelato but almost felt like drinking (a nuttier) milky hot chocolate.
The latte boasts a creamy pistachio sauce that's blended with espresso, too, so you'll still be able to get that jolt of energy for your morning to-dos (I know I needed it!). And the Pistachio Latte's best part is its Salted Brown Butter Cookie Flavored Topping — it is REALLY good. I wish Starbucks sold the topping on its own, because I would put it on everything. Salty, sweet, and with the deep flavor of browned butter, this cookie-like topping is everything I ever wanted on top of my latte.
If, after trying this drink yourself, you decide you're all about the pistachio flavor, you may also enjoy the coffee chain's new Pistachio Cream Cold Brew. It was added to the Starbucks menu in January 2023 and boasts that similar pistachio yumminess so many people enjoy in the latte. This one is sweetened with vanilla syrup, topped with pistachio cream cold foam, and finished with salted brown-buttery sprinkles. In other words, you'll love it. Clearly, 2023 is starting off strong with all things pistachio.
— Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes