Attention caffeine addicts! The silver lining in this soupy hot summer is the new line of Starbucks energy drinks. They have almost no calories, no aftertaste, and can caffeinate and cool you down. At this moment, coffee seems very unappetizing, especially when the temps reach the 3 digits. Even iced coffee can feel dehydrating. Enter the Starbucks Iced Energy brand, which has quickly become our go-to caffeinated treat.
Why We Love the New Starbucks Iced Energy Drinks: DAOFitLife Review
Because it tastes fruity and has NO energy drink aftertastes. Absolutely none! And it is also hydrating, despite the caffeine content. Plus, the caffeine content is less than the average Starbucks espresso-based drink in a GRANDE size.
The best part of all? The two energy drinks have only 5-10 calories. If you want to splurge on a smoothie, it will only clock in at 180. AND THIS IS FOR A VENTI SIZE. WHAT???????
When to Drink It
We love this as a pre-workout. Even on an empty stomach, it doesn’t bother. Also good as substitute for coffee altogether, without the extra calories.
What to Know
These only come in one size – Venti. Which actually is a good thing, because it cuts down on the decision fatigue. The downside is they are a bit pricey for a Starbucks drink. If adding fruit topping, it can be 8 or 9 bucks. Without any customization, the drinks cost $6.25 each and the smoothie costs $7.55. (these prices are DC proper, and may differ across geographical location).
As a famous Swedish song goes, “I don’t care. I love it!!”
These drinks can be customized by adding tea or milk/milk substitute (thought I would not recommend it), but no additional caffeine-based additive is permitted. You CAN add freeze-dried fruit, and that is what I love to do. Here are my favorite fruit add-ins:
- Pineapple (2 scoops)
- Strawberry
- Dragonfruit
If you want to splurge and add all three and you get the Melon Burst drink, it starts to feel like drinking a Sangria:)
Types of Drinks and Caffeine Content
- Melon Burst: Melon and cucumber flavoring mixed with bright Passion Tango tea. Caffeine content: 180 milligrams. Calories: 10
- Tropical Citrus: Passionfruit and citrus flavoring mixed with green tea. Caffeine content: 205 milligrams. Calories: 5
- Frozen Tropical Citrus: Passionfruit and citrus flavoring combined with swirls of strawberry puree. Caffeine content: 140 milligram. Calories: 180
Are These Around Just for The Summer?
Please, God, please let the answer be no. According to my favorite and knowledgeable barista, it is TBD.
