As the holiday season swings into full gear, Starbucks is spreading cheer with the return of two fan-favorite beverages that evoke nostalgia and warmth: the Eggnog Latte and the Chestnut Praline Latte. Launched on December 2, 2025, these limited-time offerings are available at U.S. coffeehouses while supplies last, joining the chain’s robust holiday menu that kicked off earlier in November. For many customers, this news is a long-awaited gift, especially after years of absence for one of these drinks.
The Eggnog Latte, Starbucks’ inaugural holiday espresso beverage, has a storied history dating back to 1986. Created by Dave Olsen—often credited as the “founding father” of Starbucks’ Espresso Roast—the drink was born from a simple experiment: steaming a pitcher of eggnog and milk behind the espresso bar. After vanishing from menus following the 2021 holiday season, its comeback has sparked widespread excitement among patrons who view it as an essential part of their festive rituals.
At its core, the Eggnog Latte is a celebration of creamy indulgence. It combines rich, steamed eggnog with Starbucks’ signature espresso, finished with a velvety layer of foam and a dusting of freshly ground nutmeg. The result? A velvety sip that tastes like holiday baking in a cup, complete with subtle notes of cinnamon and spice that transport drinkers straight to family gatherings and twinkling lights.
This year, Starbucks has elevated the classic with innovative twists for iced beverage lovers. The new Eggnog Cream Cold Foam—blended with real eggnog—offers a lighter, airier alternative to the full latte. It’s perfect for customizing any iced coffee, from a simple Cold Brew to a Peppermint Mocha, adding a festive swirl without overwhelming richness. Erik Gomez, a member of Starbucks’ beverage development team, emphasized the drink’s emotional pull: “We heard the call for eggnog loud and clear… Our mission was to bring back that nostalgic, creamy indulgence that feels like a hug in a cup.”
Priced at around $5.95 for a tall hot or iced version (prices may vary by location), the Eggnog Latte is dairy-based, so vegan alternatives aren’t available this season. However, its return after a four-year hiatus has fans buzzing on social media, with posts declaring it “the taste of Christmas morning.”
Complementing the eggnog’s cool creaminess is the Chestnut Praline Latte, a returning staple since its debut in 2014. Inspired by the smoky-sweet aroma of roasted chestnuts wafting through European Christmas markets, this beverage blends steamed milk and espresso with caramelized chestnut flavors. It’s crowned with whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of chestnut praline topping—think buttery, spiced crumbles that add a delightful textural contrast.
Available hot or iced, the Chestnut Praline Latte shines in its hot form, evoking cozy firesides and winter strolls. For those seeking customization, Starbucks introduced Chestnut Praline Cold Foam and even a protein-packed version, allowing for guilt-free holiday sips when added to lighter bases like an Iced Blonde Latte. At approximately $5.75 for a tall, it’s a versatile pick that pairs well with any milk alternative, making it more inclusive for dietary needs.
Fans had been on edge when the initial 2025 holiday menu announcement omitted this gem, leading to a flurry of online pleas for its revival. “It’s the one drink that screams holidays to me,” one customer shared on X, echoing sentiments from countless others relieved by the December 2 drop.
Starbucks’ holiday menu, which launched its first wave on November 6 with staples like the Caramel Brûlée Latte and Sugar Cookie Latte, is designed in phases to extend the season’s magic. The addition of these two lattes—and their accompanying cold foams—creates a “second drop” that bridges early December excitement with New Year’s festivities. Expect them to linger through early January, though availability can vary by store.
This resurgence isn’t just about flavors; it’s a nod to community feedback. After the Eggnog Latte’s prolonged absence, its return feels like a victory for loyalists who petitioned for its revival. Paired with new merch like the Roller Rabbit collaboration—featuring whimsical animal-themed tumblers—these drinks enhance Starbucks’ role as a holiday hub, where coffee meets camaraderie.
Whether you’re braving the drive-thru for a post-shopping treat or settling in with a book by the window, the Eggnog Latte and Chestnut Praline Latte remind us why the holidays are best enjoyed one warm sip at a time. Head to your nearest Starbucks today—before these seasonal stars vanish like the last snowflake. Cheers to merry mergers of tradition and taste!
