When we think about the holidays, we know one thing for certain: There will be at least one fruitcake. And as a pleasant surprise, this year, that fruitcake will be at Starbucks, thanks to the newly-released Fruitcake Frappuccino. In case you've been wondering if there is caffeine in a Starbucks Fruitcake Frappuccino, though, I have good news for anyone who doesn't usually turn to the high test stuff for a boost: The Fruitcake Frapp is absolutely caffeine free. While that might be a deterrent for some, let's be real: Sometimes, you need a sweet treat without the extra burst of caffeinated energy. After all, we all need to slow down a little around this time of year.
So, what is the Starbucks Fruitcake Frappuccino made of? This drink, in my humble opinion, sounds way tastier than actual fruitcake. The Frapp starts with a Hazelnut Creme base — which is why the drink is totally decaffeinated: Creme Frappuccino bases are typically sans caffeine. The Vanilla Bean Creme Frapp that basically tastes like a vanilla milkshake? That's another example, as is the Strawberries and Creme Frapp.
In any event, the Hazelnut Creme Frappuccino is blended with dried fruit and spiced with cinnamon; then, baristas top the confection off with whipped cream, caramel dots, and a sprinkle of matcha. Sounds way tastier than the dried out fruitcake that someone always brings to your holiday dinner, right?
According to Starbucks, the Fruitcake Frappuccino is available in stores right now, Dec. 15, through the weekend — this one is super limited edition, people! But the good news is that if you try the Starbucks Fruitcake Frapp, you might also receive...
An ugly sweater drink cozy! To bring in complete holiday cheer and winter euphoria, Starbucks Rewards members will receive a free ugly sweater cozy with the purchase of the Starbucks Fruitcake Frappuccino while supplies last.
If you aren't able to snag yourself a cozy, though, fear not! There are other ugly sweater-themed treats at Starbucks this year. Take, for example, the trio of Ugly Sweater Cookies — that is, gingerbread people with sweaters made of frosting. Almost too cute to eat, right?
While the price of the Fruitcake Frapp does vary based on your location, a 12-ounce Tall is likely to run you between $4.25 and $4.95. But hey, who can beat a sweet treat for around $5 during the holiday season? Take a few minutes to treat yourself this weekend and enjoy a creamy drink that will leave you almost craving your favorite relative's fruitcake. Or, if you're feeling crafty, bring your Starbucks Fruitcake Frappuccino home and try your hand at making an actual fruitcake yourself. There are no shortage of fruitcake recipes on the Internet, and everyone likes a warm kitchen and the smell of freshly baked goods during the holidays, yes? Maybe this is fruitcake's time to shine.
Images: Starbucks (2); Giphy (2)